Probiotics are micro-organisms that have claimed health benefits when consumed.[1]
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and bifidobacteria are the most common types of microbes used as probiotics, but certain yeasts and bacilli may also be used. Probiotics are commonly consumed as part of fermented foods with specially added active live cultures, such as in yogurt, soy yogurt, or as dietary supplements.
The World Health Organization's 2001 definition of probiotics is "live micro-organisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host".
The original observation of the positive role played by certain bacteria was first introduced by Russian scientist and Nobel laureate Élie Metchnikoff, who in the beginning of the 20th century suggested that it would be possible to modify the gut flora and to replace harmful microbes with useful microbes.
Research into the potential health effects of supplemental probiotics has included the molecular biology and genomics of Lactobacillus in immune function, cancer, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea, travellers' diarrhea, pediatric diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome.[23] Testing of a probiotic applies to a specific strain under study.[
Irritable bowel syndrome and colitis[edit]
In one study, a commercial strain of Bifidobacterium infantis improved some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome in women. A separate small study showed that a strain ofLactobacillus plantarum may also be effective in reducing IBS symptoms. A study focused on Bifidobacterium animalis showed a reduction in discomfort and bloating in individuals with constipation-predominant IBS, as well as helping to normalize stool frequency in said individuals.For maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis, Mutaflor (E.coli Nissle 1917) randomized clinical studies showed equivalence of Mutaflor and mesalazine (5-ASAs).
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)[edit]
Several clinical studies provide evidence for the potential of probiotics to lower the risk of NEC and mortality in premature infants. One meta-analysis indicated that probiotics reduce all-cause mortality and risk of having NEC by more than 50% compared with controls.
Vitamin production[edit]
| Probiotic Research[79] | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Strain | Claimed potential effect in humans | ||
| Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 | May improve abdominal pain and bloating in IBS patients.[80] May increase immune response to a viral challenge.[81] | ||
| Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 | May have an effect on the gastrointestinal system.[82] | ||
| Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis 35624 | Possible relief from abdominal pain/discomfort, bloating and constipation.[83] | ||
| Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM | Shown in one study to reduce the side effects of antibiotic therapy.[84] | ||
| Lactobacillus paracasei St11 (or NCC2461) | One study indicated reduction of diarrhea in children[85] | ||
| Lactobacillus johnsonii La1 (= Lactobacillus LC1,Lactobacillus johnsonii NCC533) | May reduce incidence of H. pylori-caused gastritis and may reduce inflammation [86] | ||
| Lactobacillus plantarum 299v | May affect symptoms of IBS.[87] | ||
| Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730 (Lactobacillus reuteri SD2112) | Evidence for diarrhea mitigation in children,[88][89] decreased crying in infantile colic,[90] H. pyloriinfection,[91] antibiotic-associated side-effects,[92][93] fever and diarrhea in children[94] and number of sick days in adults.[95] | ||
| Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis (DSM 17938, daughter strain of ATCC 55730)[96] | Evidence for shortened duration of diarrhea in children,[97] decreased crying in infantile colic,[98][99] reduced risk of diarrhea in children,[100] may affect constipation [101] and functional abdominal pain in children.[102] | ||
| Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis (DSM 17938/ATCC 55730 and ATCC PTA 5289 in combination) for oral health | Evidence for effect on gingivitis and periodontitis,[103][104][105][106] preliminary evidence for reduction of oral malodor,[107] evidence for reduction of risk factors for caries [108][109][110] | ||
| Saccharomyces boulardii | Good evidence for treatment and prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea[111] and acute diarrhea.[112][113] | ||
| tested as mixture: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 & Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 | In one study, oral ingestion resulted in vaginal colonisation and reduced vaginitis.[114] | ||
| tested as mixture: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM & Bifidobacterium bifidum BB-12 | Preliminary evidence for reduced C. difficile–associated disease.[115] | ||
| tested as mixture: Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285 & Lactobacillus casei LBC80R | May affect digestive health.[67] | ||
| Lactobacillus plantarum HEAL 9 & Lactobacillus paracasei 8700:2 | Under study for common cold infections.[118] | ||
Some additional forms of lactic acid bacteria include:
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
- Streptococcus thermophilus
- "Lactobacillus bifidus" - became new genus Bifidobacterium
