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Review
. 2002 Aug;82(1-4):279-89.

Probiotics: an overview of beneficial effects

Arthur C Ouwehand  1 , Seppo Salminen, Erika Isolauri
Affiliations
  • PMID: 12369194
Review

Probiotics: an overview of beneficial effects

Arthur C Ouwehand et al. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek. 2002 Aug.

Abstract

Food products fermented by lactic acid bacteria have long been used for their proposed health promoting properties. In recent years, selected probiotic strains have been thoroughly investigated for specific health effects. Properties like relief of lactose intolerance symptoms and shortening of rotavirus diarrhoea are now widely accepted for selected probiotics. Some areas, such as the treatment and prevention of atopy hold great promise. However, many proposed health effects still need additional investigation. In particular the potential benefits for the healthy consumer, the main market for probiotic products, requires more attention. Also, the potential use of probiotics outside the gastrointestinal tract deserves to be explored further. Results from well conducted clinical studies will expand and increase the acceptance of probiotics for the treatment and prevention of selected diseases.

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