Probiotics: Falling out of Favor?

Most of us have heard of the benefits of products that contain probiotics, including improved digestion and allergies. Some studies even claim that these wonder products help with specific illnesses such as pneumonia and eczema. However, some of the same people who advertised the benefits of the products are now questioning the validity of those claims. Evidence shows that many of the bacteria can be killed by the body’s own heat. An additional concern is that sick patients may actually be harmed by ingesting probiotics; the body targets the bacteria, causing digestive upset and infection. Scientists suggest that products containing prebiotics may be a better alternative; they nourish bacteria already present. Inulin and oligosaccharides are two examples of prebiotics. Times online, November 10, 2008 
2008-11-22 19:45:17