Probiotics in gastroenterology

Abstract

For many years, it has been thought that certain microorganisms may have health-related benefits. Recently, these microorganisms, termed probiotics, have come under increasing scrutiny in the clinical arena (Verna and Luckak, 2010). Despite increasing popularity, the evidence to support the use of probiotics in gastroenterology remains fairly scant (Floch et al, 2011). This comment aims to outline the evidence for the clinical role and health benefits of probiotics in the management of gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional constipation.

Following a brief overview of probiotics and how they work, several challenges of making recommendations for the use of probiotics in GI clinical practice will be explored. This will highlight the need for strong evidence of benefit before any bacteria can be termed a probiotic, and the importance of understanding that a beneficial probiotic response in one condition does not confer benefits in other conditions.