Functionality and Safety of Probiotics

Abstract

Probiotics stabilize intestinal microflora, reduce constipation, reduce decay by inhibiting harmful bacteria, and prevent diseases. Probiotics have also been studied for their possible roles in immune activation, treatment of cancer, remediation of cholesterol, treatment of diabetes, alleviation of allergies, and relief of lactose intolerance. However, recent data concerning the side effects of probiotics have prompted debate regarding their efficacy and safety. Major adverse events associated with probiotics are gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, gastrointestinal disorders, and vomiting, along with skin rash and urticaria. Probiotics occasionally cause sepsis in infants with poor immunity and elderly people with severe diseases. In contrast to previous studies that described the efficacy of probiotics in intestinal regulation, some recent studies have reported that the activity of intestinal microbes becomes weak as a result of the influx of probiotics. The data indicate that the safety of probiotics is not guaranteed and that further investigations are needed.