Probiotics, which are live microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast, may aid in preventing and treating certain health conditions, especially gastrointestinal disorders. They bolster the human microbiota, assisting with food breakdown and preventing colonization by harmful bacteria. While research indicates limited benefits for conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, probiotics show promise in managing diarrheal diseases, particularly in children.
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can benefit health when consumed. These beneficial bacteria and yeasts, often found in supplements and fermented foods, can improve the balance of the gut microbiota. The idea that consuming specific microorganisms can aid digestion and boost immune function began in the early 20th century with Élie Metchnikoff. Interest in probiotics increased significantly in the 21st century as we learned more about the human microbiome.
What are the Main Health Benefits of Taking Probiotics?
Probiotics, especially lactic-acid bacteria like Lactobacillus and Streptococcus, are normal components of the human microbiome used for centuries in yogurt, cheese, and pickled foods. Certain strains of Bifidobacterium bacteria and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii are also probiotics. They are available as capsules, powders, liquids, or chewable tablets, in addition to naturally occurring in certain foods.
Diarrheal Diseases
Studies show that S. boulardii reduces the frequency of diarrheal episodes in children with acute diarrhea. Certain probiotic strains, like L. rhamnosus GG, may also modestly reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea. L. rhamnosus GG and S. boulardii can effectively prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children and adults.
Gut Microbiota Restoration
Probiotics can restore beneficial gut microbiota populations. For instance, fecal transplantation, which transfers fecal material from a healthy person to a patient, can effectively treat C. difficile infection by restoring beneficial gut microbiota populations.
Are There Risks Associated with Probiotics?
While probiotics are generally safe, some risks exist. Patients with compromised immune systems can experience severe bacteremia (bacterial infection of the blood) and fungemia (fungal infection of the blood). Probiotic-associated bacteremia has been reported in individuals with severe ulcerative colitis. Although probiotics reduce the likelihood of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants, there have been documented cases of probiotic-associated sepsis.
People Also Ask
Can probiotics help with weight loss?
Studies on obesity have found that obese individuals have more Prevotella and Firmicutes bacteria and methanogenic archaea compared to normal-weight individuals. These microorganisms may be more efficient at harvesting carbohydrates from food, leading to extra nutrients stored as fat.
Are all probiotic supplements effective?
Many commercial products contain microorganisms marketed as health-promoting probiotics; however, there is a lack of direct evidence supporting the ability of many over-the-counter probiotics to promote well-being in otherwise healthy individuals.
How do probiotics affect the immune system?
Probiotics can boost immune function. They prevent the colonization of the gut by harmful bacteria and help balance the human microbiota, which is crucial for overall health.
In conclusion, probiotics offer several potential health benefits, especially for managing diarrheal diseases and restoring gut microbiota. However, it’s important to consider the risks, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems.
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