|
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are intended to have health benefits when consumed or applied to the body. Many probiotics are marketed as dietary supplements. A great deal of research has been done on probiotics, and they have shown promise for a variety of health purposes. However, much remains to be learned about whether they’re helpful and safe for various health conditions and for different groups of people.
Probiotics have an extensive history of apparently safe use in people who are healthy. However, they can be risky in some groups of people with severe health problems or compromised immune systems. One such population is premature infants. Probiotics have been given to some premature infants in hospital settings to try to prevent a serious condition called necrotizing enterocolitis. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently warned health care providers and the public about a risk of potentially fatal infections in preterm infants who are given probiotic products.
It’s a good idea to consult a health care provider before using a probiotic dietary supplement or giving one to a child. This is especially important if the person who would use the product has health problems. Anyone with a serious underlying health condition should be monitored closely while taking a probiotic.
|
