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The use of probiotics in medical practice
1Clinical Microbiology Department. L. Sacco Teaching Hospital, University of Milan, Via G.B. Grassi, 74, 20157 Milan, Italy. microbio@mailserver.unimi.it
Abstract:
Probiotics are defined as living organisms, beneficial to health when ingested. Different species of microorganisms such as lactic acid bacteria or yeasts have been proposed for human use. These microorganisms differ from each other and it is, therefore, unlikely that they will act in the same way. Probiotics could be used for several conditions such as diarrhoea, candidal vaginitis, urinary tract infections, immune disorders, lactose intolerance, hypercholesterolaemia and food allergy. The effects of probiotics in some of these conditions have been directly observed, in others it has been only suggested on the basis of in vitro studies and from experimental animal models. Controlled trials are needed to determine the scientific basis for their use, the correct formulation and ways of administration in different clinical situations.
Insights
Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer health benefits. Research is ongoing to confirm their effectiveness for various conditions, with controlled trials needed to establish optimal use.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
Background:
- Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms conferring a health benefit on the host when administered in adequate amounts.
- Various microbial species, including lactic acid bacteria and yeasts, are explored for probiotic applications.
- Significant differences exist among probiotic strains, suggesting varied mechanisms of action and applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential applications of probiotics for various health conditions.
- To highlight the need for rigorous scientific validation of probiotic efficacy.
- To identify areas requiring further research regarding probiotic formulation and administration.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on probiotic applications.
- Analysis of in vitro studies and animal models.
- Identification of conditions where probiotic effects have been observed or suggested.
Main Results:
- Probiotics show potential for conditions such as diarrhea, candidal vaginitis, urinary tract infections, immune disorders, lactose intolerance, hypercholesterolemia, and food allergies.
- Observed effects range from direct clinical evidence to suggestions based on in vitro and animal studies.
- The efficacy and optimal use of probiotics vary significantly depending on the specific strain and condition.
Conclusions:
- Controlled clinical trials are essential to establish the scientific basis for probiotic use.
- Further research is required to determine optimal probiotic formulations and administration routes for different clinical scenarios.
- The diverse nature of probiotic microorganisms necessitates condition-specific evaluation.