Probiotics are selected live microorganisms which, when they are ingested alive and in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on health in addition to their conventional nutritional effects. They have been the subject of studies at the international level since the middle of the twentieth century.
Scientists are investigating the effects of these probiotics, and their combined effects, by trying to classify the beneficial effects of ingesting various strains and to elucidate their mechanisms of action within the digestive tract. At present, the methodological and ethical limitations of human studies make it difficult to understand the mechanisms of action of probiotics, and only partial explanations are available. Nevertheless, some possible benefits linked to the consumption of probiotics have already been suggested (e.g. better digestion of lactose, help strengthen the body's defense system), and others are still being investigated.
Introduction
The Health Benefits
Probiotics are selected live microorganisms which, when they are ingested alive and in sufficient quantities, have a beneficial effect on health in addition to their conventional nutritional effects. They have been the subject of studies at the international level since the middle of the twentieth century.
