Probiotics are everywhere – go to the grocery store or open the refrigerator at work and you’ll see a plethora of foods and supplements containing probiotics, each one touting the ability to boost digestive health. Commercials on TV state that these products are essential to good overall health, but are they?
These items incorporate “good” bacteria, which could help with digestion and offer protection from harmful bacteria. However, you don’t necessarily need probiotics—these microorganisms perform the same function that the existing “good” bacteria in your body already do. While probiotics aren’t essential, they aren’t harmful, either.
Although further research is needed, there’s evidence that probiotics may:
- Treat diarrhea, especially following treatment with certain antibiotics
- Prevent and treat yeast infections and urinary tract infections
- Treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Reduce bladder cancer recurrence
- Speed treatment of certain intestinal infections
- Prevent and treat eczema in children
- Prevent or reduce the severity of colds and flu
Also, more study is needed on the safety of probiotics in young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems.
You can add probiotics to your diet through supplements and foods such as yogurt, fermented and unfermented milk, miso, and some juices and soy drinks. Product labels should include a statement that the product contains “live and active cultures,” such as lactobacillus. You may also want to check out the product website for additional information.
Most people can safely add probiotic foods to a healthy diet. If you’re considering taking probiotic supplements, check with your doctor to make sure that the supplements are right for you.
The following tips were brought to you by Dr. Robin Baradarian, a Gastroenterologist from Brooklyn Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Associates.