Mixed
Probiotics (specifically Lactobacillus acidophilus) are effective for preventing pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea, necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants, and upper respiratory tract infections, and for treating acute infectious and persistent diarrhea in children.
If you are treating a child with antibiotic-associated diarrhea, acute infectious diarrhea, or are a preterm infant at risk for necrotizing enterocolitis, probiotics (like L. acidophilus) are a valid, evidence-based intervention. However, do not rely on them to treat chronic conditions like Crohn's, ulcerative colitis, or bacterial vaginosis, as current evidence does not support their efficacy for these issues.
Probiotics have been shown to be effective or possibly effective in preventing pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea, necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants, and upper respiratory tract infections. They have been shown to be effective or possibly effective in treating acute infectious diarrhea and persistent diarrhea in children.
Why this rating
The paper cites Cochrane Summaries, which are high-quality systematic reviews, though it notes evidence is 'limited to just a few conditions'.
Source
Recycling Metchnikoff: Probiotics, the Intestinal Microbiome and the Quest for Long Life
Philip A. Mackowiak · Frontiers in Public Health · 2013
DOI 10.3389/fpubh.2013.00052
Related findings · Mixed
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