益生菌補充劑用效成疑

The usage of probiotic foods and supplements has been widely considered part of a healthy diet by supplementing the gut microbiome with beneficial bacteria. Although the usage of probiotics is a common dietary accessory (附加物), there is limited reproducible evidence showing bacterial colonization, thus limiting long term effectiveness.

Linhardt, C. A. (2019). The relationship of gut microbiota in standard and overweight children, before and after probiotic administration. The University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy. http://hdl.handle.net/11299/202569.

Tablets and drinks containing probiotics are available in the shops. Advertisements declaring amazing results filled medical journals and newspapers.

Firstly, what species and strains does a product contain? Often, these are not detailed, or they do not match up with the true contents when they are cultured. Probably, the more species the better, though we have very little understanding of the impact of different strains (種類) on the body.

Secondly, how many individual bacteria does a product contain? Bacteria in large intestine originally are in huge number.

Collen, A. (2015) 10% Human: How Your Body's Microbes Hold the Key to Health and Happiness. London: William Collins.