Ingredient
Also known as: lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, acidophilus, saccharomyces boulardii
Live bacteria or yeasts that can benefit health when taken in enough amounts. Effects depend on the strain, so results for one product do not carry over to another.
Taken during a course of antibiotics, some strains (for example Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii) lower the risk of diarrhea in meta-analyses. Results depend on the strain and dose.
Some strains help bloating and pain in irritable bowel syndrome, but results vary widely. The American Gastroenterological Association recommends them only within clinical trials.
A Cochrane review found probiotics may slightly reduce colds and other upper respiratory infections, but the evidence is low quality.
Always consult your healthcare provider before combining supplements with medications.