Probiotics and its Benefits
Authors: Ajit Kumar Dubedi Anal and Manvendra Singh

The History of Probiotics:-
The concept probiotics was introduced in the early 20th century, when Elie Metchnikoff, known as the “father of probiotics,” proposed that consuming beneficial microorganisms could improve people’s health. The term “probiotics”"meaning “for life”"eventually came into use.

Definition of Probiotics:

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Probiotics are the “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host”. They found in various different foods and food products. . They play important roles in regulating proper intestinal function and digestion - by balancing intestinal microflora.

Different Kinds of Microorganisms used in Probiotics:-

Probiotics may contain a variety of microorganisms. The most common are bacteria that belong to groups called Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Other bacteria may also be used as probiotics, and so may yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii.
Prebiotics, and Synbiotics:-
The term “prebiotics” refers to dietary substances that favor the growth of beneficial bacteria over harmful ones. The term “synbiotics” refers to products that combine probiotics and prebiotics.

How Do They Work?

There are some of the ways by which probiotic microorganism can works to keep you healthy:
1. When you lose "good" bacteria in your body (like after you take antibiotics, for example), probiotics can help replace them.
2. They can help balance your "good" and "bad" bacteria to keep your body working like it should.

Government Regulation of Probiotics

Many probiotics are sold as dietary supplements, which do not require FDA approval before they are marketed. Dietary supplement labels may make claims about how the product affects the structure or function of the body without FDA approval, but they cannot make health claims (claims that the product reduces the risk of a disease) without the FDA’s consent. If a probiotic is marketed as a drug for specific treatment of a disease or disorder in the future, it will be required to meet more stringent requirements. It must be proven safe and effective for its intended use through clinical trials and be approved by the FDA before it can be sold.
Benefits of Probiotic Microorganism:-

Following benefits of probiotic microorganism:

• Boosting immune system.
• Prevent and treat urinary tract infections.
• Improve digestive function.
• Heal inflammatory bowel conditions like IBS.
• Manage and Prevent eczema in children.
• Fight food-borne illnesses


About Author / Additional Info:
I am currently pursuing PhD in Microbial Technology from Amity University Noida (U.P) India. I also working as a Young Professional-II in ICAR-NRC on Litchi.