Probiotics
Live microorganisms that confer a benefit when taken in adequate amounts. A meta-analysis of 43 RCTs reports significant improvement in overall IBS symptoms and abdominal pain versus placebo (risk ratio 0.79). Effects are highly strain-specific, with large differences between products. Influence on immune markers such as secretory IgA is also reported in several studies.
An ingredient with growing research
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Effects reported in research
Improvement in IBS symptoms and abdominal pain reported in meta-analysis (strain-dependent)
Effects on immune markers such as increased secretory IgA reported
Dosage & timing
- Generally 1–100 billion CFU/day.
- Because effects are strain-specific, choose products that name the genus, species, and strain (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) and match your goal, with an adequate cell count.
Cautions
- •Generally considered safe for healthy people, though bloating or gas can occur early on.
- •People with serious illness or immune compromise should consult a doctor.
- •Broad claims like 'boosts immunity' are an oversimplification.
- •This site is for educational reference only.
Supporting research
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