Research that was presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's annual meeting recently reveals that probiotic bacteria may be useful in treating a number of conditions, from diarrhea to psoriasis.
The presentation featured findings from four studies examining the effects of the healthful microorganisms on antibiotic-induced diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis and chronic fatigue syndrome. Additionally, the research delved further into how probiotics can alleviate abdominal bloating and discomfort.
Scientists reported that no significant difference in symptoms was observed between patients taking probiotics for abdominal issues not relating to irritable bowel syndrome and a control group.
However, patients with diarrhea, colitis, psoriasis and chronic fatigue syndrome were all shown to benefit from probiotic treatment, suggesting that altering gut microorganisms can have a significant effect on inflammatory conditions.
"This anti-inflammatory effect is not restricted to a specific disease state, suggesting that [the probiotic] B.infantis induces a critical cellular response, which may include the induction of regulatory cell subsets," said Eamonn M.M. Quigley, M.D., FACG, who presented the findings.
Authors of the study noted that probiotic bacteria can be found in yogurt, soy products, fermented dairy drinks, tempeh and natural nutritional supplements.