Probiotics are popular, widely available dietary supplements. They have received much attention regarding their possible health benefits, making some think that probiotic therapy may offer relief for certain health conditions. According to Ganeden Biotech, probiotic sales reached $700 million in 2007. While probiotics are generally considered safe, you should remember that nutritional supplements like probiotics are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live micro-organisms which do not cause disease, the so-called "good" bacteria, explains the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Researchers have identified several strains of probiotics including Lactobacillus acidophilus, which are found in yogurt, milk enriched with acidophilus and miso. These bacteria work in conjunction with existing intestinal bacteria, offering possibilities for treating some health conditions.
Function
The function of probiotics varies with the particular strain. Some types support immune system function by binding to the inner lining of the intestines, ensuring the availability of good bacteria. Others will protect the body from disease-causing bacteria. Some probiotics will stimulate the growth of immunoglobulins in the intestines. Immunoglobulins are proteins that act as antibodies. They are the first line of defense against disease and infection.
Benefits
Probiotic therapy can provide complementary treatment options for several conditions. Gastrointestinal distress often accompanies antibiotic usage. Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as penicillin and tetracycline may attack good bacteria as well as bad.
Probiotics can help prevent intestinal issues caused by their use, explains MayoClinic.com. A 2010 study in the "Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing" found that probiotics could play a similar role with gastrointestinal issues caused by radiation therapy. They may also help treat irritable bowel syndrome.
Immune System Support
Further evidence suggests that probiotic therapy may be used to support immune system function. A 2009 study in the journal "Pediatrics" found that probiotic therapy provided an effective way to reduce the incidences of colds and coughs in children, 3 to 5 years of age. Researchers found that not only did probiotics reduce the duration of illnesses, it also led to a reduction in antibiotic treatment.
Taking Probiotics
In addition to dietary sources, probiotics are also available in pill or capsule form as a nutritional supplement. These supplements offer a way for lactose-intolerant individuals to take probiotics without consuming dairy products. Probiotics are not for everyone. Persons with suppressed immune systems, such as HIV-positive individuals, should discuss probiotics with their doctor before taking these supplements, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center.
References
- Ganeden Biotech: Probiotics and Probiotic Bacteria
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: An Introduction to Probiotics
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora et al; 2005
- "Clinical Journal of Oncology Nursing"; The Prophylactic Use of Probiotics in the Prevention of Radiation Therapy-Induced Diarrhea; K. Visich and T.Yeo; August 2010
- "Pediatrics"; Probiotic Effects on Cold and Influenza-Like Symptom Incidence and Duration in Children; Leyer et al; July 2009
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