The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) defines probiotics as live microorganisms that are "ether the same as or similar to microorganisms found naturally in the human body". Probiotics are beneficial to health and also called good or helpful bacteria. They are available in products such as yogurt and dietary supplements.
Below is a fact sheet provided by the NCCAM:
Key Points
- Although some probiotic formulations have shown promise in research, strong scientific evidence to support specific uses of probiotics for most conditions is lacking.
- Studies suggest that probiotics usually have few side effects. However, the data on safety, particularly long-term safety, are limited, and the risk of serious side effects may be greater in people who have underlying health conditions.
- If you are considering a probiotic dietary supplement, consult your health care provider first. Do not replace scientifically proven treatments with unproven products or practices.
- Tell all your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.
Five Things to Know
-There is some evidence that probiotics may be helpful for acute diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and atopic eczema (a skin condition most commonly seen in infants).
- Although some probiotic formulations have shown promise in research, strong scientific evidence to support other uses of probiotics for most conditions is lacking.
-Studies suggest that probiotics usually have few side effects. However, the data on safety, particularly long-term safety, are limited, and the risk of serious side effects may be greater in people who have underlying health conditions.
-Probiotic products may contain different types of probiotic bacteria and have different effects in the human body. The effects also may vary from person to person.
-If you are considering a probiotic dietary supplement, talk to your health care provider first. Do not replace scientifically proven treatments with unproven products or practices.
From NCCAM.NIH.gov