The very concept of probiotics was absolutely foreign to the general public, only 20 years ago. Now we know much more about how friendly bacteria in our gut help support the functions of our immune system, metabolism, and digestive health. If you’re having trouble keeping track of what probiotics have been shown to be able to treat, we have a rundown on recent developments in the probiotics research world for you today!
1. Probiotics fighting cholera
Although cholera has largely been eliminated in the Western world, it is still quite prevalent in the Third World. It produces toxins that bind to complex sugar receptors on cells in the human intestine. Reserachers have found a way to copy that process, using molecular mimics attached to probiotics that prevent the disease itself from binding to the cells' surfaces.
2. Probiotics fighting E.coli and traveler's diarrhea
The same mechanism of action has also been shown to help prevent traveler's diarrhea and the common pathogen E.coli. However, some studies have shown mixed results on probiotics treatment for diarrhea. While it shows promise, it would be safest to check with your doctor if you have persistent diarrhea.
3. Preventing allergy development in Cesarian-delivered babies
Friendly bacteria can replace the exposure to microbes which is often thought to be one of the reasons that some children develop allergies, while others do not. Cesarian-delivered babies are not exposed to microbes from the mother's vaginal passage, and so the probiotics replace these flora. There was no extra protection observed for vaginally delivered infants.
4. Bacterial vaginosis treatment boosted by probiotics
It seems contradictory, but taking probiotics supplements alongside antibiotic tablets actually helps improve outcomes in cases of bacterial vaginosis. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is associated with increased risk of transmitting HIV.
Workers at the Tetra Pak factory in Switzerland who took a daily dose of probiotics were 2.5 times less likely to take sick leave for common illnesses such as colds and gastroenteritis than those who took a placebo. The effects were seen to be strongest in shift workers taking the whole food supplements.
6. Doctors to be washing their hands in Yakult rather than antiseptic
The reason that many doctors are reluctant to give their patients antibiotics is because of the possibility of creating drug-resistant forms of disease. However, antiseptic soaps used in hospitals may have the same effect. The current prevalence of methylcyllin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) in hospitals is one striking example of what can happen in a highly antibiotic environment.
Also in recent research are some studies which note that probiotics don’t show a significant improvement in the condition of eczema patients, and they do not relieve all types of diarhhea.
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