Should yoghurt cultures be considered probiotic?
Probiotics are live micro-organisms that when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. Consumption of yoghurt has been shown to induce measurable health benefits linked to the presence of live bacteria. A number of human studies have clearly demonstrated that yoghurt containing viable bacteria (Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus delbrueckii sp. bulgaricus) improves lactose digestion and eliminates symptoms of lactose intolerance. Thus, these cultures clearly fulfil the current concept of probiotics.
Guarner
Francisco
F
Digestive System Research Unit, University Hospital Vall d'Hebron, Barcelona, Spain. fguarnera@medynet.com
Perdigon
Gabriela
G
Corthier
Gérard
G
Salminen
Seppo
S
Koletzko
Berthold
B
Morelli
Lorenzo
L
D019587:Dietary Supplements; D006801:Humans; D048668:Lactobacillus delbrueckii / Q000378:metabolism; D007785:Lactose / Q000378:metabolism; D007787:Lactose Intolerance / Q000378:metabolism; D019936:Probiotics / Q000378:metabolism*; D048249:Streptococcus thermophilus / Q000378:metabolism; D015014:Yogurt / Q000382:microbiology*
D007785:Lactose