CHICAGO — A leading medical group
says there’s some evidence that probiotics, or “good” bacteria, may
have limited benefits for certain illnesses in children.
But the group says the science
isn’t yet strong enough to advocate infant formulas containing probiotics. And
probiotics shouldn’t be given to children who are seriously ill.
That’s according to a new American
Academy of Pediatrics report published in the journal, Pediatrics.
About 500 different bacteria live
naturally in a healthy human’s intestinal tract, and there’s a growing
understanding of the role they play in health. For years, companies have been
making claims that their probiotic pills, yogurts, milks and juices help
digestive health and the immune system.
The new report summarizes findings
from high-quality scientific studies on some of the active ingredients in the
products. The report says probiotics taken early during diarrhoea from a viral
infection may shorten the illness in otherwise healthy children.
And probiotics also may prevent
diarrhoea in children who are taking antibiotics, which can sometimes cause the
condition.
On the other hand, more evidence is
needed before AAP can recommend probiotics for constipation, irritable bowel
syndrome or Crohn disease. And there’s not enough evidence for recommending
probiotics in pregnant women or infants to prevent eczema or asthma.
Future research may find more
benefits, the report says. And “prebiotics,” which contain fibre and
other nutrients that feed probiotic bacteria, also may someday prove helpful.
One warning: Children with
compromised immune systems or who use intravenous catheters should not receive
probiotics because serious infections have been reported.
The bacteria in the products are
only helpful if they’re alive, which isn’t always the case.
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