Probiotic or Prebiotic

The term probiotic pops up often in the grocery store, on the television, and on the Internet. Labels and ads may claim that consuming probiotics is a way to promote digestive health and general well-being. Claims about the health benefits of probiotics typically appear on yogurt and other cultured dairy foods such as acidophilus milk. Claims may also appear on

• Fermented soybean products (tempeh, miso)

• Fruit or flavored drinks and “health” bars to which probiotic cultures have been added

• Some fermented pickles

• Some chocolate

• Different brands of probiotic dietary supplements

Before you choose a food or product just because of the advertised probiotic benefits, ask yourself several questions:

• What are probiotics and prebiotics?

• Are the health benefits supported by scientific research?

• Which health benefits are still being studied?

• What are some tips for choosing probiotic foods or products?

What Are Probiotics and Prebiotics?

Did you know that more than 400 kinds of microorganisms live in the human digestive (gastrointestinal [GI]) tract? Collectively, these organisms are called microflora. “Friendly” or “good” organisms help promote healthy intestinal linings and general digestive health and are considered beneficial.

• Probiotics are living microorganisms that are similar to (or the same as) those that live in the GI tract. When eaten, they can offer a health benefit. They do this by helping the body’s own “good” microflora. They may also help reduce harmful organisms that also live in the GI tract.

  Most probiotics are bacteria. The most common include species and strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.

  There are many other species and strains that can help promote different health benefits for different parts of the body.

  Cultures of live microorganisms have been used for thousands of years to make dairy foods such as yogurt, kefir, and cheese. But the term probiotic is new, and it was first used in 1965.

• Prebiotics may be defined as the “food” for probiotics. Prebiotics can survive the human digestive process. Plus, prebiotics promote the growth of specific “good” bacteria in the digestive tract. Some prebiotics occur naturally in foods such as wheat, onions, bananas, and honey. Others can come from common sources such as chicory root and sucrose.

Potential Benefits of Probiotics

When present in the right amount, probiotics may help “good” microflora promote health. A convincing and growing body of research supports these potential benefits of probiotics:

• Helping treat (or prevent) infectious and antibiotic-related diarrhea

• Aiding in treatment of gastric ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease

• Promoting regularity

• Promoting healthy immune function, particularly in the GI tract

• Improving lactose digestion and reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance

Research is continuing but not yet conclusive about the potential role probiotics may play in other areas, such as cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and food allergies.

Tips for Choosing Probiotics

Not all probiotics are equal. A claim of “probiotic” does not necessarily mean that the product contains proven strains or enough of the probiotic organisms to make a difference. The phrase clinically proven may not mean that the research was done with humans. Instead, studies may have been in animals or the laboratory. A few watch-outs can help you wisely shop for probiotic foods and products.

• Buy from a reputable, known manufacturer. The strength and effectiveness of probiotics can vary from brand to brand. Known companies usually have published research to support any claims. Visit the company’s Web site for details about the product. If no Web site or contact information is listed, you may want to continue shopping.

• Check the label for important information.

• Inform your health care provider of any probiotics you use regularly. Your doctor needs a full picture to manage your health effectively and safely. Consult your doctor before giving probiotics to infants or anyone with a major illness.

Resources

Probiotics: What they are and what they can do for you. American Gastroenterological Association. http://www.gastro.org/patient-center/diet-medications/probiotics

Oral probiotics: An introduction. National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, National Institutes of Health. http://nccam.nih.gov/health/probiotics/introduction.htm

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