Probiotics

Probiotics are nutritional supplements and fermented or cultured foods (such as yogurt) that contain friendly bacteria. They are purported to improve the intestinal flora by balancing the ratio of “good” to “bad” bacteria, which may benefit digestion and have a positive effect on IBS symptoms. At present, the types of bacterial strains used in probiotic products vary greatly. Further research is needed to clarify the role and value of probiotics and, if proven useful, determine which strains are the most helpful.