Current and potential uses of probiotics.

OBJECTIVE

To present data that support the current and potential use of probiotics in treating or preventing allergic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract and other disorders.

DATA SOURCES

Case reports, double-blind studies, and animal studies were reviewed.

STUDY SELECTION

Studies were selected based on the expert opinion of the authors.

CONCLUSIONS

Well-designed research studies suggest that supplementary consumption of certain probiotic strains may temporarily alter the intestinal microflora of infants and children to produce a beneficial effect. However, generalization of probiotic effects must not be made and critical scientific evaluation must be used in directing patients to select the appropriate probiotic.