Probiotics are live microorganisms, like *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium*, that benefit the host by modulating the gut microbiota.
Probiotics, particularly *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium* strains, are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They primarily function by modulating the gut microbiota, improving gut barrier function, modulating the immune system, and producing beneficial metabolites. Research supports their use in managing conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea and potentially alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and eczema. While generally safe, some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, and rare cases of infection have been reported in immunocompromised individuals. Choosing the appropriate probiotic strain and dosage is crucial for optimal benefits.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Outside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
1-10 billion CFU (colony forming units) daily
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Probiotics are typically produced through fermentation processes. Specific strains of *Lactobacillus* and *Bifidobacterium* are cultured in controlled environments with suitable growth media, followed by downstream processing like freeze-drying to preserve viability and encapsulation for delivery.
Use Type
BothPotential Benefits
Immune support enhances the body's defense against pathogens by strengthening immune cells, promoting antibody production, and maintaining immune homeostasis. It aims to optimize immune function for a balanced and resilient response to threats.
This benefit aims to improve overall skin health and appearance through increased hydration, reduced inflammation, improved elasticity, and protection from environmental damage. Healthy skin exhibits a smooth texture, even tone, and strong barrier function.
Improves digestive function by enhancing nutrient absorption, promoting regular bowel movements, and supporting gut microbiota balance. This leads to improved gut comfort and overall well-being.
Zinc supports the immune system by enhancing immune cell activity, reducing infection risk, and modulating inflammatory responses. Supplementation is particularly beneficial for individuals with zinc deficiencies, helping to restore optimal zinc levels and bolster immune response.
Improved gut health involves balancing gut microbiota, optimizing digestion, and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort. This leads to enhanced nutrient absorption, reduced inflammation, regulated bowel movements, and symptom relief.
*Lactobacillus* bacteria help maintain a healthy vaginal flora by inhibiting pathogenic organisms, preventing and managing vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections. Supplementation can occur orally or vaginally.
This benefit is intended to reduce symptoms of IBS like abdominal pain and bloating. Its effects may be modest, but can improve quality of life for some individuals with IBS.
Quercetin modulates immune cells to enhance immune function and reduce infection risk. It may also inhibit viral entry and replication.
Possible Side Effects
Diarrhea involves frequent, loose stools due to infections, medications, or underlying conditions, leading to potential dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Symptoms include abdominal cramps, bloating and nausea.
Bloating is a feeling of abdominal fullness or distension, often caused by gas or underlying gastrointestinal issues. It is commonly linked to diet, IBS, or hormonal changes, and while usually benign, persistent or severe cases warrant investigation.
Gas is the presence of excess air in the digestive system, causing bloating, burping, and flatulence. It is often caused by diet or swallowing air, but can also be related to underlying gastrointestinal conditions.
Gas and bloating are common but usually transient gastrointestinal side effects resulting from changes in gut bacteria during probiotic use, causing fermentation and gas production.
Probiotics, in very rare cases, can cause infections, particularly in individuals with severely weakened immune systems. These infections can range from bacteremia or fungemia to more severe complications like sepsis.
Scientific Evidence
Key scientific sources include randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses published in journals such as The Lancet, Gastroenterology, and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Studies examining the effect of specific probiotic strains on conditions like antibiotic-associated diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and eczema provide robust evidence.
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