title: Probiotics in primary care pediatrics.
abstract: Probiotics are live microorganisms that help stabilize and balance intestinal microflora. Although these organisms are ubiquitous and have been used in the production of foods, probiotics have been used more frequently for therapeutic purposes, including the treatment and prevention of pediatric diseases. This article reviews the proposed mechanisms of the beneficial effects of probiotics, potential uses of these organisms in pediatric care, and promising future directions for their application.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatrics and Communicable Diseases, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
authors.forename: Michael D
authors.initials: MD
authors.lastname: Cabana
authors.forename: Andi L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Shane
authors.forename: Cewin
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Chao
authors.forename: Maria
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Oliva-Hemker
mesh_terms: D001644:Bifidobacterium / Q000276:immunology; D002648:Child; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D052776:Female Urogenital Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control; D005767:Gastrointestinal Diseases / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007778:Lactobacillus / Q000276:immunology; D052801:Male Urogenital Diseases; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000517:prevention & control; D010372:Pediatrics; D019936:Probiotics / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*