All the pros, none of the cons I think I've actually seen more commercials lately for probiotic-containing yogurts and other products than I have for medications like Zelnorm or even over-the-counter remedies like milk of magnesia. The fact that these products are becoming more accepted as a way to achieve and maintain good intestinal health is a real coup for the natural medicine field. I just don't want to see probiotics get typecast solely as a natural route to regularity. While this is one of their major health benefits, there's a lot more they can do, including some things you might not expect. For instance, a recent study found that these friendly bacteria can also help protect burn victims from the serious complications that often accompany these types of injuries. And probiotics have a long-standing reputation even among most mainstream physicians as an effective remedy for yeast infections. But what makes them so effective for all of these specific problems is also what makes them so important for everyone on a general level: They give your immune system a powerful boost by making sure your body's bacteria levels are balanced appropriately. And you don't have to buy one of the heavily advertised yogurt products to get these benefits. Probiotic supplements are available in any natural food store. The most effective varieties are typically refrigerated to help keep the active cultures alive and kicking. Source:
"Probiotics show potential against burns," NutraIngredients (www.nutraingredients.com), 7/24/07 | 
