Lee Swanson Research Update

Probiotics May Thwart Infection in Certain Populations

June 2005

Probiotics may benefit special populations, according to new research presented at the Third International Convention on Probiotics, held in Paris, France. The convention's findings included extensive research into the health benefits of probiotics, including improved digestion, strengthened intestinal lining and improved immune function.

Among the findings was a study from the Juntendo University School of Medicine in Tokyo, Japan, indicating the probiotic Bifidobacterium breve (B. breve) had a positive effect on the immune response of preterm babies with compromised immune systems. Infection developed in 23.1% of infants administered B. breve versus 37% of the control group; the number of deaths among the infected infants was zero in the B. breve group versus 12.1% of the control group. In addition, infants administered probiotics demonstrated improved feeding and faster weight gain.

The probiotic strain Lactobacillus casei reduced the incidence and severity of diarrhea among children who attend day care centers, a setting conducive to the rapid spread of viral digestive infections such as Rotavirus. A group of healthy children received fermented milk fortified with the probiotic for four to six months. The incidence of diarrhea in children who received the probiotic (5.9%) was significantly reduced compared to the control group (22%).

Clinical evidence presented at the convention also included a study in which probiotics helped prevent ulcers by controlling Helicobacter pylori, a microorganism conducive to gastritis, ulcerative diseases of the stomach and duodenum, and nocosomial infections (a post-surgery complication).

"Although the Third Annual Probiotics Convention was focused on clinical research, it is important to note that regular consumption of probiotics can also benefit healthy people by improving bodily functions, such as regularity, detoxification, immune function and digestion," said Allan Walker, M.D., director of the Division of Nutrition at Harvard Medical School.

From the Third International Conference on Probiotics

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