Journal of Probiotics & Health
Open Access

Abstract

The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics in Human Health

Corliss A O’ Bryan, Dolar Pak, Philip G Crandall, Sun Ok Lee and Steven C Ricke

There has recently been a significant increase in research on the potential health benefi ts associated with probiotics and prebiotics. Some effects attributed to selected probiotics or prebiotics have been proved by clinical trials, while others have been acquired on the basis of in vitro tests which need to be replicated in vivo in order to be validated. Clinical reports in the literature for the application of probiotics have been done for the treatment of infectious diseases including viral, bacterial or antibiotic associated diarrhea, lowering of serum cholesterol, decreased risk of colon cancer, improved lactose digestion, and altered intestinal microbiota. However, information on probiotic species, a specific strain-therapeutic application, and adequate dosages, is not yet sufficient to allow rational consumption. Moreover, prebiotic oligosaccharides are poorly understood in regard to their fermentation profi les and dosages required for health effects. The present review summarizes some of the literature in regard to clinical or therapeutic trials of probiotics and prebiotics.