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Cited by 381Probiotics and Fermented FoodsGut microbiota and healthInfant Nutrition and Health

The Potential Impact of Probiotics on Human Health: An Update on Their Health-Promoting Properties

Open access
Maftei, Nicoleta-Maricica, Raileanu, Cosmin Raducu, Balta, Alexia Anastasia, Ambrose, Lenuta, Boev, Monica, Marin, Denisa Batîr, Lisa, Elena Lacramioara·2024·Microorganisms
DOI 10.3390/microorganisms12020234PMC PMC10891645
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Abstract

Probiotics, known to be live microorganisms, have been shown to improve or restore the gut microbiota, which in turn has been linked to improved health. It is believed that probiotics are the modern equivalent of a panacea, with claims that they may treat or prevent different diseases both in children and adults (e.g., from colic in babies to cardiovascular disease, respiratory infection, and cancer in adults). Ever since the early 2000s, probiotic-based fermented foods have had a resurgence in popularity, mostly due to claims made regarding their health benefits. Fermented foods have been associated with the prevention of irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, gastroenteritis, and obesity, but also other conditions such as chronic diarrhea, allergies, dermatitis, and bacterial and viral infections, all of which are closely related to an unhealthy lifestyle. Recent and ongoing developments in microbiome/microbiota science have given us new research directions for probiotics. The new types, mechanisms, and applications studied so far, and those currently under study, have a great potential to change scientific understanding of probiotics’ nutritional applications and human health care. The expansion of fields related to the study of the microbiome and the involvement of probiotics in its improvement foreshadow an era of significant changes. An expanding range of candidate probiotic species is emerging that can address newly elucidated data-driven microbial niches and host targets. In the probiotic field, new variants of microbiome-modulating interventions are being developed, including prebiotics, symbiotics, postbiotics, microbial consortia, live biotherapeutic products, and genetically modified organisms, with renewed interest in polyphenols, fibers, and fermented foods to ensure human health. This manuscript aims to analyze recent, emerging, and anticipated trends in probiotics (sources, doses, mechanism of action, diseases for which probiotics are administered, side effects, and risks) and create a vision for the development of related areas of influence in the field.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This narrative review updates the health-promoting properties of probiotics, covering mechanisms, clinical applications, fermented food sources, safety, and emerging trends. It concludes that probiotics may prevent or ameliorate many conditions, but strain-specific dosing, efficacy, and long-term colonization remain unresolved.

Key findings

  • Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer a health benefit when administered in adequate amounts; benefits are strain- and dose-specific, with common genera including *Lactobacillus*, *Bifidobacterium*, *Bacillus*, *Pediococcus*, and yeasts.
  • Gastrointestinal evidence is mixed: *S. boulardii* and *L. rhamnosus* GG reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea and *C. difficile* diarrhea, but a Cochrane analysis of 82 studies found probiotics had low or uncertain ability to reduce acute diarrhea duration; a meta-analysis of 15 RCTs found improved stool consistency/frequency in constipation, and a meta-analysis of 6 RCTs involving 496 adults with cirrhosis found reduced overt hepatic encephalopathy.
  • Viral/immune findings include a COVID-19 study where 91/100 probiotic-treated patients versus 15/100 placebo patients showed diminished physical and mental fatigue on day 14; HPV clearance was 29% with probiotics versus 19% in controls in one prospective study; influenza vaccination meta-analysis reported higher HI titers for A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains by 20%, 19.5%, and 13.6%, respectively.
  • Obesity/cardiometabolic results show small reductions in weight, waist circumference, and visceral fat, with heterogeneity limiting clear conclusions; common side effects are mild bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, thirst, headaches, and skin reactions, while rare infections and risks require caution in immunosuppressed, transplant, chemotherapy, and certain cardiac or intestinal disease patients.

Methods

  • Narrative review/update analyzing recent and emerging trends in probiotics, including sources, doses, mechanisms of action, diseases treated, side effects, and risks.
  • Evidence synthesized from clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, in vitro and animal studies, guidelines, and fermented-food literature; no primary data collection or systematic review protocol is described.
  • Includes sections on mechanisms, human health conditions, product selection guidance, fermented food sources, recent advances, and safety.

Limitations

  • The authors state that future research should determine optimal dose for each individual strain and the most effective matrix, and whether probiotic strains colonize the intestine or are simply transitory; they also note that studies on obesity and cardiometabolic parameters lack homogeneity, IBD efficacy remains unclear, and evidence quality for necrotizing enterocolitis prevention is generally poor.
  • Evident from the text: as a narrative review, it does not report a systematic search strategy, inclusion/exclusion criteria, or formal risk-of-bias assessment, and many conclusions rely on secondary sources and heterogeneous studies without quantitative pooling.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.3390/microorganisms12020234

Cites

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 167 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Premisecitation

    Probiotics can help normalize the gut microbiota when it has been disrupted by antibiotics or other stressors.

    “Studies have shown that certain probiotic microbes can help promote resistance and normalize the gut microbiota when it has been disrupted by antibiotics or other stressors, even though it is quite difficult for scientists to define exactly what a healthy microbiome is [81].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [81] Jenkins, 2022, The Role of Prebiotics and Probiotics in Human Health: A Systematic Review with a Focus on Gut and Immune Health, Food Nutr. J.

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  • Premisecitation

    The gut microbiota is an important participant in the bidirectional exchange of information between the gut and the brain (microbiota-gut-brain axis).

    “The gut microbiota is an important participant in the bidirectional exchange of information between the gut and the brain, which is described as the microbiota–gut–brain axis [5].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [5] Li, 2022, Dietary polyphenols: Regulate the advanced glycation end products-RAGE axis and the microbiota-gut-brain axis to prevent neurodegenerative diseases, Crit. Rev. Food Sci. Nutr. source

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  • Premisecitation

    Probiotics can transiently colonize the human gut in individualized patterns, depending on the individual's microbiota, the probiotic strain/strains, and the region of the GI tract.

    “There are several mechanisms known to explain the mode of action of probiotics against diseases because probiotics can transiently colonize the human gut in individualized patterns, depending on the individual’s microbiota, the probiotic strain/strains, and the region of the GI tract [86].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [86] Zmora, 2018, Personalized gut mucosal colonization resistance to empiric probiotics is associated with unique host and microbiome features, Cell source

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  • Premisecitation

    The efficacy of probiotic strains in maintaining remission in IBD is still unclear.

    “However, to date, the efficacy of probiotic strains in maintaining remission in IBD is still unclear [114,115]”
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  • Interpretationreasoning

    Through these mechanisms, probiotics can have a much greater influence on diseases and human health in children and adults.

    “Through these mechanisms, probiotics can have a much greater influence on diseases and human health (children and adults).”
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  • May combine two claims. 55
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    Premisecitation

    The properties and potential benefits of probiotics are dependent on the used dosage and cannot be extrapolated from one microbial strain to another, even if both are part of the same species.

    “The FAO/WHO Expert Consultation concluded that the properties and potential benefits of probiotics are dependent on the used dosage and cannot be extrapolated from one microbial strain to another, even if both are part of the same species [14].”
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    Premisecitation

    The physiological functions of Bifidobacterium include restraining the growth of pathogenic bacteria, inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines, protecting against intestinal barrier dysfunction (in vitro and in vivo), synthesizing vitamins and amino acids in the intestine, increasing calcium bioavailability, and antitumor effects.

    “The physiological functions of Bifidobacterium are mainly as follows: restraining the growth of pathogenic bacteria, inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines [26,27], protecting against intestinal barrier dysfunction (in vitro and in vivo), synthesizing vitamins and amino acids in the intestine and increasing calcium bioavailability [28,29], and antitumor effects, according to experimental results sug”
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    Premisecitation

    Bifidobacterium spp. can reproduce and metabolize in the middle and end of the small intestine and large intestine and secrete bifidogenic factors with probiotic effects to regulate intestinal health and adapt to anaerobic intestinal life.

    “Bifidobacterium spp. is a very important group of probiotics for humans because it can reproduce and metabolize in the middle and end of the small intestine and large intestine and secrete bifidogenic factors with probiotic effects to regulate intestinal health and adapt to the anaerobic intestinal life [24,25].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Gut maturation, energy metabolism, nutrition uptake, and the immune system are processes influenced by the gut microbiota and also by our microbiome.

    “Gut maturation, energy metabolism, nutrition uptake, and the immune system are processes influenced by the gut microbiota and also by our microbiome (billions of microorganisms that form a complex ecology in our gastrointestinal tract) [2].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [2] Rusch, 2023, Signalling cognition: The gut microbiota and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, Front. Endocrinol. source

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    Premisecitation

    The main mechanisms of action of probiotics include advancement of the epithelial barrier, increased adhesion to the intestinal mucosa, production of antibacterial substances, competitive exclusion of pathogens, simultaneous suppression of bacterial adhesion, and modulation of the immune system.

    “According to data in the literature, the advancement of the epithelial barrier, increased adhesion to the intestinal mucosa, production of antibacterial substances, competitive exclusion of pathogens, simultaneous suppression of bacterial adhesion, and modulation of the immune system are some of the main mechanisms of action of probiotics [87,88,89,90,91] (Figure 1).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Probiotics communicate with cells inside and outside the GI tract through biochemical signaling mechanisms, leading to improved intestinal barrier function, reduced production of pro-inflammatory markers such as cytokines, and improved immune function.

    “Probiotics communicate with cells inside and outside the GI tract through biochemical signaling mechanisms, and this leads to improved intestinal barrier function, reduced production of pro-inflammatory markers such as cytokines [92], and improved immune function [93].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Once in the intestine, probiotics interact with intestinal cells to restore intestinal permeability, stimulate mucus production, promote mucosal regeneration, maintain the intestinal mechanical barrier's normal function, and maintain the mucosal barrier's integrity.

    “Once arrived in the intestine, they interact with intestinal cells, with the aim of restoring intestinal permeability, stimulating mucus production, promoting mucosal regeneration, maintaining the intestinal mechanical barrier’s normal function, and maintaining the mucosal barrier’s integrity [85].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Enterococcus strains can compete, survive, and attach to host cells in the intestine, are highly resistant to a wide range of pH and temperature values, and can be used as a natural antimicrobial agent in the food industry.

    “Other bacteria species such as Enterococcus are frequently used in the food industry today and present a key feature, which is the ability of the strains to compete, survive, and attach to host cells in the intestine [31]. Also, they are highly resistant to a wide range of pH and temperature values (these characteristics are attributed to their strong bacteriocin production capacity) and can be”
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    Premisecitation

    Probiotics interact with intestinal bacteria after entering the intestine, enhancing the chemical barrier, biological barrier, immune barrier, and mechanical barrier.

    “After that, probiotics react with bacteria following their entrance into the intestine, enhancing the chemical barrier, biological barrier, immune barrier, and mechanical barrier [84].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
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    Premisecitation

    Saccharomyces strains have a higher survival capacity when passing through the digestive tract compared with other probiotics, help maintain the balance of the normal microflora of the intestinal tract, and have immunomodulatory effects.

    “This is because, when passing through the digestive tract, Saccharomyces strains have a higher survival capacity compared with the other probiotics. Also, these strains help to maintain the balance of the normal microflora of the intestinal tract and have immunomodulatory effects, acting to fine-tune immunological pathways during pathogenic infections or chronic diseases [32,33,34].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [32] Hanchi, H., Mottawea, W., Sebei, K., and Hammami, R. (2018). The genus enterococcus: Between probiotic potential and safety concerns-an update. Front. Microbiol., 9. source

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    • cites [33] Czerucka, 2019, Diversity of Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 mechanisms of action against intestinal infections, World J. Gastroenterol. source

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    • cites [34] Pais, P., Almeida, V., Yilmaz, M., and Teixeira, M.C. (2020). Saccharomyces boulardii: What makes it tick as successful probiotic?. J. Fungi, 6. source

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    Premisecitation

    Higher doses of probiotics are the most effective in preventing AAD and/or C. difficile diarrhea.

    “The researchers in these studies reported that higher doses are the most effective in these conditions.”
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    • cites [109] Guo, 2019, Probiotics for the prevention of pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [110] Goodman, 2021, Probiotics for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea: A systematic review and meta-analysis, BMJ Open source

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    • cites [111] Storr, 2021, Systematic review: Clinical evidence of probiotics in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, MMW Fortschr. Med. source

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    • cites [112] Goldenberg, 2017, Probiotics for the prevention of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in adults and children, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [113] Ma, 2020, Which probiotic has the best effect on preventing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea? A systematic review and network meta-analysis, J. Dig. Dis. source

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    Premisecitation

    Topical probiotics secrete antimicrobial substances (hydrogen peroxide and bacteriocin) that inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and prevent wound infection.

    “As an effective treatment for wounds, they are recognized as topical probiotics because they secrete antimicrobial substances (i.e., hydrogen peroxide [98] and bacteriocin [99]), which inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and prevent wound infection.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [98] Sekhar, 2014, Topical application/formulation of probiotics: Will it be a novel treatment approach for diabetic foot ulcer?, Med. Hypotheses source

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    Premisecitation

    There is substantial evidence in the literature of the beneficial effects of probiotics on diarrhea, especially the prevention of traveler's diarrhea and the treatment of acute diarrhea in children.

    “There is substantial evidence in the literature of the beneficial effects of probiotics on diarrhea, especially the prevention of traveler’s diarrhea [105,106] and the treatment of acute diarrhea in children [107].”
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    • cites [107] Huang, 2021, Efficacy of probiotics in the treatment of acute diarrhea in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials, Transl. Pediatr. source

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    Premisecitation

    S. boulardii and L. rhamnosus GG have been shown to reduce the risk of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD) and are effective in preventing AAD and/or Clostridium difficile diarrhea.

    “Also, S. boulardii and L. rhamnosus GG have been shown to reduce the risk of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD). Both probiotic strains have been shown to be effective in preventing AAD [109,110,111] and/or Clostridium difficile diarrhea [112,113].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [109] Guo, 2019, Probiotics for the prevention of pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [110] Goodman, 2021, Probiotics for the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea: A systematic review and meta-analysis, BMJ Open source

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    • cites [111] Storr, 2021, Systematic review: Clinical evidence of probiotics in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, MMW Fortschr. Med. source

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    • cites [112] Goldenberg, 2017, Probiotics for the prevention of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in adults and children, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [113] Ma, 2020, Which probiotic has the best effect on preventing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea? A systematic review and network meta-analysis, J. Dig. Dis. source

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    Premisecitation

    Probiotic-loaded microparticles with in situ gelling properties were more effective and improved the management of burn wound infections.

    “The researchers declared that the experiments revealed the probiotic-loaded microparticles were more effective and improved the management of burn wound infections.”
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    In a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials, consumption of probiotics substantially reduced gastrointestinal transit, improved stool consistency, and increased stool frequency.

    “However, in a meta-analysis of 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), consumption of probiotics substantially reduced gastrointestinal transit, improved stool consistency, and increased stool frequency [119].”
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    • cites [119] Zhang, 2020, Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effects of probiotics on functional constipation in adults, Clin. Nutr. source

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    Evidence has been reported showing that probiotic strains can help prevent necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants, although the quality of the studies is generally poor.

    “Although the quality of the studies is generally poor [124,125], evidence has been reported showing that probiotic strains can help prevent necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm infants.”
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    • cites [124] Deshmukh, 2021, Prophylactic probiotic supplementation for preterm neonates—A systematic review and meta-analysis of nonrandomized studies, Adv. Nutr. source

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    • cites [125] Sharif, 2020, Probiotics to prevent andomized enterocolitis in very preterm or very low birth weight infants, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    Premisecitation

    Only some strains of Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and Propionibacterium spp. showed beneficial results in reducing the risk of atopic eczema in children, while other strains of the same species did not.

    “Following these studies, it was mentioned that only some strains of Lactobacillus spp., Bifidobacterium spp., and Propionibacterium spp. showed beneficial results, while other strains of the same species did not.”
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    • cites [128] Amalia, 2020, Systematic review and meta-analysis on the use of probiotic supplementation in pregnant mother, breastfeeding mother and infant for the prevention of atopic dermatitis in children, Australas. J. Dermatol. source

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    • cites [129] Li, 2019, Probiotic supplementation for prevention of atopic dermatitis in infants and children: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Am. J. Clin. Dermatol. source

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    • cites [130] Jiang, 2020, The role of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis in children: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Paediatr. Drugs source

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    • cites [131] Recto, 2021, Comparative effectiveness of probiotic strains on the prevention of pediatric atopic dermatitis: A systematic review and network metaanalysis, Pediatr. Allergy Immunol. source

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    Premisecitation

    Six recent meta-analyses showed that probiotic strains induce remission in IBD, with much evidence of efficacy for ulcerative colitis but less evidence for Crohn's disease.

    “although six recent meta-analyses [114,115,116,117,118] showed that probiotic strains induce remission in IBD, with much evidence of efficacy for ulcerative colitis (UC) but less evidence for Crohn’s disease (CD) [116,117].”
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    • cites [114] Chen, 2021, Efficacy and safety of probiotics in the induction and maintenance of inflammatory bowel disease remission: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Ann. Palliat. Med. source

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    • cites [115] Kaur, 2020, Probiotics for maintenance of remission in ulcerative colitis, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [116] Emamie, 2021, The effects of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics on the reduction of IBD complications, a periodic review during 2009–2020, J. Appl. Microbiol. source

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    • cites [117] Limketkai, 2020, Probiotics for induction of remission in Crohn’s disease, Cochrane Database Syst. Rev.

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    • cites [118] Zhang, 2021, Clinical effects and gut microbiota changes of using probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics in inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Eur. J. Nutr. source

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    Premisecitation

    S. thermophiles has been shown to be beneficial in the production of lipids (ceramides in the stratum corneum), which help the skin to maintain moisture, and also phytosphingosine, which helps fight C. acnes.

    “Also, S. thermophiles has been shown to be beneficial in the production of lipids (ceramides in the stratum corneum), which help the skin to maintain moisture, and also phytosphingosine, which helps fight C. acnes [132].”
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    • cites [132] Sánchez-Pellicer, P., Navarro-Moratalla, L., Núñez-Delegido, E., Ruzafa-Costas, B., Agüera-Santos, J., and Navarro-López, V. (2022). Acne, microbiome, and probiotics: The gut-skin axis. Microorganisms, 10. source

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    Premisecitation

    Gut microbiomes play a fundamental role in appetite regulation and have an effect on obesity.

    “For this reason, the fundamental role of gut microbiomes in appetite regulation and the resulting effect on obesity is now clear [136]”
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    • cites [136] Patterson, 2016, Gut microbiota, obesity and diabetes, Postgrad. Med. J. source

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    Premisecitation

    Systematic reviews show that consuming probiotics causes overweight and obese people to lose weight, but the weight loss and reduction in waist circumference and visceral fat is small.

    “Systematic reviews have shown that by consuming probiotics [137,138,139,140], overweight and obese people lose weight, but the weight loss and reduction in waist circumference and visceral fat is small [137,138,139,140].”
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    • cites [137] Borgeraas, 2018, Effects of probiotics on body weight, body mass index, fat mass and fat percentage in subjects with overweight or obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Obes. Rev. source

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    • cites [138] Suzumura, 2019, Effects of oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics in overweight and obese adults: A systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized trials, Nutr. Rev. source

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    • cites [139] Pontes, 2021, Effects of probiotics on body adiposity and cardiovascular risk markers in individuals with overweight and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Clin. Nutr. source

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    • cites [140] Álvarez-Arraño, V., and Martín-Peláez, S. (2021). Effects of probiotics and synbiotics on weight loss in subjects with overweight or obesity: A systematic review. Nutrients, 13. source

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    Premisecitation

    Specific mechanisms mediated in the gut by ingested probiotics may be involved, such as digestion and absorption of sugar or increased production of short-chain fatty acids.

    “Researchers have stated that specific mechanisms mediated in the gut by ingested probiotics may be involved (for example, digestion and absorption of sugar or increased production of short-chain fatty acids) [142].”
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    • cites [142] Stenman, 2016, Probiotic with or without Fiber Controls Body Fat Mass, Associated with Serum Zonulin, in Overweight and Obese Adults—Randomized Controlled Trial, EbioMedicine source

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Consumption of probiotics can improve inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein) and glycemic control and insulin metabolism in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome, including pregnant women with gestational diabetes.

    “Studies also show that the consumption of probiotics can improve inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein) and glycemic control and insulin metabolism in patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome [143,144,145,146,147], including pregnant women with gestational diabetes [143,144].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [143] Tiderencel, 2020, Probiotics for the treatment of type 2 diabetes: A review of randomized controlled trials, Diabetes Metab. Res. Rev. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [144] Ding, 2021, Effects of probiotic supplementation on inflammatory markers and glucose homeostasis in adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis, Front. Pharmacol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [145] Cao, 2021, Effect of probiotic supplementation on glycemic outcomes in patients with abnormal glucose metabolism: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Ann. Nutr. Metab. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [146] Pan, 2021, Probiotic supplements improve blood glucose and insulin resistance/sensitivity among healthy and GDM pregnant women: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, eCAM

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [147] Zhou, 2021, Probiotics and synbiotics show clinical efficacy in treating gestational diabetes mellitus: A meta-analysis, Prim. Care Diabetes source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Studies indicate that probiotics can contribute to weight loss and improvement in cardiometabolic parameters.

    “with studies indicating that probiotics can contribute to weight loss and an improvement in cardiometabolic parameters.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [136] Patterson, 2016, Gut microbiota, obesity and diabetes, Postgrad. Med. J. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • Rests on an assumption: Disruptions in the composition of the gut microbiota can disrupt its function and improve the gut barrier, resulting in low-grade chronic inflammation.
    • Rests on an assumption: Inflammation has considerable effects on host adiposity and insulin resistance.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In a randomized placebo-controlled trial, gastrointestinal symptoms of tested SARS-CoV-2 patients improved, and hospital-acquired diarrhea was less frequent in patients who received a probiotic compared with placebo.

    “In another study, [153] reported that in a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, the gastrointestinal symptoms of the tested SARS-CoV-2 patients appeared to improve, and hospital-acquired diarrhea was less frequent in patients who received a probiotic compared with those who received a placebo.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [153] Li, 2021, The role of probiotics in corona virus disease-19 infection in Wuhan: A retrospective study of 311 severe patients, Int. Immunopharmacol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    A significant number of clinical trials have examined the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of URTIs.

    “Hao et al. [156] stated that a significant number of clinical trials have examined the efficacy of probiotics in the prevention of URTIs”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [156] Zhao, Y., Dong, B.R., and Hao, Q. (2015). Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database Syst. Rev., CD006895. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The most common viral URTIs are caused by rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, adenoviruses, influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses, coronaviruses, and human metapneumovirus.

    “The most common viral URTIs are caused by rhinoviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, adenoviruses, influenza viruses, parainfluenza viruses, coronaviruses, and human metapneumovirus [155].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [155] Bosch, A.A.T.M., Biesbroek, G., Trzcinski, K., Sanders, E.A.M., and Bogaert, D. (2013). Viral and Bacterial Interactions in the Upper Respiratory Tract. PLoS Pathog., 9. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Specific effects of probiotics may include increased phagocytic activity of peripheral leukocytes, increased secretion of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM), and increased production of cytokines: interleukins, TNF-a, and interferon-α.

    “Specific effects may include increased phagocytic activity of peripheral leukocytes, increased secretion of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM), and increased production of cytokines: interleukins, TNF-a, and interferon-α (IFN).”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [156] Zhao, Y., Dong, B.R., and Hao, Q. (2015). Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database Syst. Rev., CD006895. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Risk factors associated with influenza disease severity include extreme age and comorbidities (chronic cardiorespiratory diseases).

    “Risk factors associated with disease severity include extreme age and patients with comorbidities (chronic cardiorespiratory diseases) [158].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [158] Kalil, A.C., and Thomas, P.G. (2019). Influenza virus-related critical illness: Pathophysiology and epidemiology. Crit. Care, 23. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In in vitro cell model HepG2.2.15, cell extract of B. adolescentis SPM0212 inhibited HBV, and its antiviral mechanism was associated with the Mx GTPase pathway.

    “Lee et al. [162] reported that in the in vitro cell model HepG2.2.15, containing integrated HBV DNA and secreting hepatitis B virus surface antigen-AgHBs, the cell extract of B. adolescentis SPM0212 inhibited HBV, and its antiviral mechanism was associated with the Mx GTPase pathway.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [162] Lee, 2013, Antiviral activity of Bifidobacterium adolescentis SPM0212 against Hepatitis B virus, Arch. Pharm. Res. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In a rodent model of influenza infection, ingestion of L. paracasei CNCM I-1518 reduced susceptibility to influenza infection, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration into the lungs, and increased the rate of viral clearance.

    “Belkacem et al. [159] used the probiotic strain L. paracasei CNCM I-1518 in a rodent model of influenza infection and reported that the ingestion of the strain reduced susceptibility to influenza infection, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration into the lungs, and increased the rate of viral clearance.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [159] Belkacem, N., Serafini, N., Wheeler, R., Derrien, M., Boucinha, L., Couesnon, A., Cerf-Bensussan, N., Boneca, I.G., Di Santo, J.P., and Taha, M.K. (2017). Lactobacillus paracasei feeding improves immune control of influenza infection in mice. PLoS ONE, 12. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In the GI microbiome of cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy, Alcaligenaceae, Porphyromonadaceae, Veillonellaceae, Enterococcus, Megasphaera, and Burkholderia are significantly increased, and this taxonomic shift is associated with hyperammonemia and systemic inflammation.

    “Research has also shown a significant increase in Alcaligenaceae, Porphyromonadaceae, Veillonellaceae, Enterococcus, Megasphaera, and Burkholderia in the GI microbiome of cirrhotic patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE), and this taxonomic shift has been associated with hyperammonemia and systemic inflammation [164].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [164] Sung, 2019, Predicting Clinical Outcomes of Cirrhosis Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy from the Fecal Microbiome, Cell. Mol. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Antibiotic-induced dysbiosis in rodents can reduce expression of TLR7 and NF-kB mRNA, leading to impaired antiviral immunity, which is reversed with administration of probiotic strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus (sensu lato).

    “Wu et al. [161] stated that antibiotic-induced dysbiosis in rodents can reduce the expression of receptor 7 (TLR7) and NF-kB mRNA, leading to impaired antiviral immunity, which is reversed with the administration of probiotic strains of Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus (sensu lato).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [161] Wu, 2013, Microbiota regulates the TLR7 signaling pathway against respiratory tract influenza a virus infection, Curr. Microbiol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Human influenza A, B, and C viruses primarily attach to and replicate within respiratory epithelial cells that line the upper to lower respiratory tract.

    “Human influenza A, B, and C viruses primarily attach to and replicate within respiratory epithelial cells that line the upper to lower respiratory tract [158].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [158] Kalil, A.C., and Thomas, P.G. (2019). Influenza virus-related critical illness: Pathophysiology and epidemiology. Crit. Care, 23. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Probiotics were better than placebo based on number of participants experiencing acute URTI episodes, average duration of an acute URTI episode, reduced rates of antibiotic prescriptions for acute URTIs, and number of school absences due to colds.

    “The researchers stated that probiotics were better than the placebo based on measurements of the number of participants experiencing acute URTI episodes, the average duration of an acute URTI episode, the reduced rates of antibiotic prescriptions for acute URTIs, and the number of school absences due to colds [156].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [156] Zhao, Y., Dong, B.R., and Hao, Q. (2015). Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database Syst. Rev., CD006895. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Probiotic interventions promote tolerogenicity, can replace pathogenic strains, and reduce inflammation, so T cell depletion and senescence could be reduced in HIV patients.

    “Probiotic interventions have become an interesting therapeutic target for HIV patients because they promote tolerogenicity [169], can replace pathogenic strains, and reduce inflammation [170]; consequently, T cell depletion and senescence could be reduced.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [169] Zeuthen, 2008, Epithelial cells prime the immune response to an array of gut-derived commensals towards a tolerogenic phenotype through distinct actions of thymic stromal lymphopoietin and transforming growth factor-b, Immunology source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [170] Hummelen, 2011, Effect of 25 weeks probiotic supplementation on immune function of HIV patients, Gut Microbes source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Probiotic bacteria (Bifidobacteria and L. rhamnosus) can increase production of short-chain fatty acids and vitamins, modify intestinal epithelium and immunity, improve intestinal barrier function, help prevent bacterial vaginosis, and reduce disease burden.

    “Probiotic bacteria (Bifidobacteria and L. rhamnosus) can increase the production of short-chain fatty acids and vitamins, modify the intestinal epithelium and immunity, improve intestinal barrier function, help prevent bacterial vaginosis, and reduce disease burden [172].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [172] D’Angelo, C.R.M., and Costantini, E. (2017). Microbiota and Probiotics in Health and HIV Infection. Nutrients, 9. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In a meta-analysis, HI titers were significantly higher for A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains, with increases of 20%, 19.5%, and 13.6%, respectively, in the probiotic group compared with the control.

    “In this meta-analysis, researchers reported significantly higher HI titers for both A/H1N1, A/H3N2, and B strains, with increases of 20%, 19.5%, and 13.6%, respectively, in the probiotic group compared with the control.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [180] Yeh, 2018, The influence of prebiotic or probiotic supplementation on antibody titers after influenza vaccination: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials, Drug Des. Dev. Ther. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Bacteria in fermented food increase levels of vitamins B, C, and K and neutralize harmful nutrients, such as phytic acid and protein inhibitors, that release nutrients from food that would otherwise have passed through the intestines undigested.

    “It has also been used because bacteria in fermented food increase the levels of vitamins B, C, and K and neutralize harmful nutrients, such as phytic acid and protein inhibitors that release nutrients from the food that would otherwise have passed through the intestines undigested [178].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [178] Sen, 2019, Role of Probiotics in Health and Disease—A Review, Int. J. Adv. Life Sci. Res.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Some cheeses are inoculated with live cultures of L. acidophilus and bifidobacterium, and blue cheese and aged cheeses are good sources of probiotics.

    “Some cheeses are inoculated with live cultures of L. acidophilus and bifidobacterium. Other cheeses that are good sources of probiotics are blue cheese and aged cheeses [188,189].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [188] Patrignani, F., Siroli, L., Parolin, C., Serrazanetti, D.I., Vitali, B., and Lanciotti, R. (2019). Use of Lactobacillus crispatus to produce a probiotic cheese as potential gender food for preventing gynaecological infections. PLoS ONE, 14. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [189] Leeuwendaal, 2022, Protection of candidate probiotic lactobacilli by Cheddar cheese matrix during simulated gastrointestinal digestion, J. Funct. Foods source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Yogurt health benefits include preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of high blood pressure, antibiotic-associated diarrhea and acute diarrhea in children, vaginal yeast and bacterial infections, and urinary tract infections.

    “The health benefits include preventing osteoporosis and reducing the risk of high blood pressure, antibiotic-associated diarrhea and acute diarrhea in children, vaginal yeast and bacterial infections, and urinary tract infections [187].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [187] Nyanzi, 2021, Invited review: Probiotic yogurt quality criteria, regulatory framework, clinical evidence, and analytical aspects, Int. J. Dairy Sci. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The most suitable single-strain or probiotic mixture can be selected based on knowledge and the summary of clinical studies reported in the literature.

    “Also, the most suitable single-strain or probiotic mixture can then be selected based on knowledge and the summary of clinical studies reported in the literature [182].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [182] Sniffen, J.C., McFarland, L.V., Evans, C.T., and Goldstein, E.J.C. (2018). Choosing an appropriate probiotic product for your patient: An evidencebased practical guide. PLoS ONE, 13. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Certain probiotics can enhance the immune system's response to influenza vaccination, which increases the potential benefit for the elderly, in whom the response to influenza vaccination (seroconversion) is impaired.

    “The researchers found evidence suggesting that certain probiotics can enhance the immune system’s response to influenza vaccination, which increases the potential benefit for the elderly, in whom the response to influenza vaccination (seroconversion) is impaired [179].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [179] Zimmermann, 2017, The influence of probiotics on vaccine responses—A systematic review, Vaccine source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Probiotics are currently available in two main forms: food and dietary supplements, and dietary supplements are regulated by the FDA.

    “Probiotics are currently available in two main forms: food and dietary supplements, and dietary supplements are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) [178].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [178] Sen, 2019, Role of Probiotics in Health and Disease—A Review, Int. J. Adv. Life Sci. Res.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Data from literature indicates that the first aspect of choosing a probiotic is related to the mode of therapy, prevention, or treatment, because different probiotics may be more suitable for each objective.

    “Data from the literature indicates that the first aspect is related to the mode of therapy, prevention, or treatment, because different probiotics may be more suitable for each objective [182].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [182] Sniffen, J.C., McFarland, L.V., Evans, C.T., and Goldstein, E.J.C. (2018). Choosing an appropriate probiotic product for your patient: An evidencebased practical guide. PLoS ONE, 13. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Soy sauce health benefits include lowering serum cholesterol and anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-cardiovascular, and anti-neuroinflammatory effects.

    “Soy sauce is also rich in lactic acid bacteria and has multifarious health benefits, such as lowering serum cholesterol and anti-diabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-cardiovascular, and anti-neuroinflammatory effects [195].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [195] Jang, C.H., Oh, J., Lim, J.S., Kim, H.J., and Kim, J.S. (2021). Fermented Soy Products: Beneficial Potential in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Foods, 10. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Sauerkraut health benefits include increasing bioavailability of nutrients, promoting gut health, cardioprotective action, stimulating the immune system, antihyperlipidemic activity, anti-inflammatory activity, and anticancer properties.

    “The health benefits include increasing the bioavailability of nutrients, promoting gut health, cardioprotective action, stimulating the immune system, antihyperlipidemic activity, anti-inflammatory activity, and anticancer properties [199].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [199] Orgeron, 2016, Sauerkraut: A Probiotic Superfood, Funct. Foods Health Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Kefir contains bacteria such as L. acidophilus, brevis, casei, delbrueckii subsp. Bulgaricus, and yeasts such as Candida humilis, Kazachstania unispora, and Kluyveromyces lactis.

    “It is a fermented milk drink that contains bacteria, such as L. acidophilus, brevis, casei, delbrueckii subsp. Bulgaricus, and yeasts such as Candida humilis, Kazachstania unispora, and Kluyveromyces lactis [190].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [190] Sevencan, 2019, Dose-dependent effects of kefir on colitis induced by trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid in rats, Food Sci. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Koumiss health benefits include a decrease in intestinal and pancreatic lipase activity, an impact on intestinal immune function in immunocompromised conditions, and a reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol.

    “The health benefits include a decrease in intestinal and pancreatic lipase activity, an impact on intestinal immune function in immunocompromised conditions, and a reduction in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol [193].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [193] Rong, J., Zheng, H., Liu, M., Hu, X., Wang, T., Zhang, X., Jin, F., and Wang, L. (2015). Probiotic and anti-inflammatory attributes of an isolate Lactobacillus helveticus NS8 from Mongolian fermented koumiss. BMC Microbiol., 15. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Kombucha health benefits include antidiabetic activity, reduced atherosclerosis, antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects, and alleviation of arthritis, rheumatism, and gout.

    “A few of its health benefits include antidiabetic activity, reduced atherosclerosis, antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects, and the alleviation of arthritis, rheumatism, and gout [194].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [194] Selvaraj, 2022, An overview of probiotic health booster-kombucha tea, Chin. Herb. Med.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Sour red soup has an important role in maintaining nerve and muscle excitability and in maintaining the body's acid-base balance.

    “It has an important role in maintaining nerve and muscle excitability and in maintaining the body’s acid–base balance [207].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [207] Xiong, 2020, Screening of dominant strains in red sour soup from Miao nationality and the optimization of inoculating fermentation conditions, Food Sci. Nutr. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In cosmetology, probiotics have been added to everyday care products, and fragments of cell walls and non-living bacteria are contained in probiotic cosmetics such as serums, creams, ointments, body gels, body balms, and shampoos.

    “In cosmetology, probiotics have been added to everyday care products. Fragments of cell walls and non-living bacteria are contained in probiotic cosmetics such as serums, creams, ointments, body gels, body balms, and shampoos [210].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [210] Chilicka, K., Dzieǹdziora-Urbiǹska, I., Szyguła, R., Asanova, B., and Nowicka, D. (2022). Microbiome and Probiotics in Acne Vulgaris—A Narrative Review. Life, 12. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Pickled cucumbers are a great source of healthy probiotic bacteria, which may improve digestive health.

    “Pickled cucumbers are a great source of healthy probiotic bacteria, which may improve digestive health.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [206] (2024, January 01). Healthline, 11 Probiotic Foods That Are Super Healthy. Available online: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-super-healthy-probiotic-foods.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Probiotics in cosmetology and dermatology are mainly incorporated into products for washing and caring for skin with atopic dermatitis; for treating acne-prone skin and skin with eczema and psoriasis; and even for skin after invasive treatments in cosmetology or medicine (exfoliation with acids).

    “Regarding the usage of probiotics in cosmetology and dermatology, they are mainly incorporated into products for washing and caring for skin with atopic dermatitis; for treating acne-prone skin and skin with eczema and psoriasis; and even for skin after invasive treatments in cosmetology or medicine (exfoliation with acids) [210].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [210] Chilicka, K., Dzieǹdziora-Urbiǹska, I., Szyguła, R., Asanova, B., and Nowicka, D. (2022). Microbiome and Probiotics in Acne Vulgaris—A Narrative Review. Life, 12. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Brem is good for skin health, warming the body, and increasing appetite.

    “It is good for skin health, warming the body, and increasing appetite [209].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [209] Ardaneswari, 2014, Production System Analysis of Brem Processing unit. Case Study: The Industrial Centers of Brem in Kaliabu and Bancong Village, Madiun District, Wacana J. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A. muciniphila is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation probiotics despite difficulties in transforming such species into industrially viable probiotics.

    “A. muciniphila is one of the most promising candidates despite all these difficulties [3].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [3] Cunningham, 2021, Shaping the Future of Probiotics and Prebiotics, Trends Microbiol. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Common probiotic side effects are bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea, thirst, headaches and migraines, and skin reactions.

    “Common probiotic side effects are bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, nausea [235,236], thirst, headaches and migraines, and skin reactions [234].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [235] Lerner, A., Shoenfeld, Y., and Matthias, T. (2019). Probiotics: If it does not help it does not do any harm. Really?. Microorganisms, 7. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [236] Dore, M.P., Bibbò, S., Fresi, G., Bassotti, G., and Pes, G.M. (2019). Side effects associated with probiotic use in adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutrients, 11. source

      Not checked in the free run.

    • cites [234] (2024, January 01). SingleCare-Probiotics Side Effects: Who Should Not Take?. Available online: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/probiotics-side-effects/.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Probiotic products administered as dietary supplements are regulated as foods, not as drugs.

    “Probiotic products administered as dietary supplements are regulated as foods, not as drugs [178].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [178] Sen, 2019, Role of Probiotics in Health and Disease—A Review, Int. J. Adv. Life Sci. Res.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Morais et al. stated that in the case of using fruits as a food matrix, the metabolism of probiotics can increase the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds and can increase functionality.

    “Morais et al. [211] stated that in the case of using fruits as a food matrix, the metabolism of probiotics can increase the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds and can increase functionality.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [211] Morais, 2019, Effects of probiotics on the content and bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds in red pitaya pulp, Food Res. Int. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Some people have experienced mild side effects from probiotics, many of which resolve as the body's microbiome readjusts.

    “Although probiotics have a multitude of benefits, some people have experienced mild side effects, many of which will resolve as the body’s microbiome readjusts [234].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [234] (2024, January 01). SingleCare-Probiotics Side Effects: Who Should Not Take?. Available online: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/probiotics-side-effects/.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Interpretationcitation

    Rashes or itchy skin from probiotics may be due to an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the supplement.

    “This may be due to an allergic reaction to an ingredient in the supplement.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [234] (2024, January 01). SingleCare-Probiotics Side Effects: Who Should Not Take?. Available online: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/probiotics-side-effects/.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). The quote only partly states this claim.

    Premisecitation

    Biogenic amines were found in some yogurts, but to a much lower degree than in some probiotic foods.

    “Also, biogenic amines were found in some yogurts, but to a much lower degree [234].”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [234] (2024, January 01). SingleCare-Probiotics Side Effects: Who Should Not Take?. Available online: https://www.singlecare.com/blog/probiotics-side-effects/.

      Not checked in the free run.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Persons at risk for adverse effects of probiotic supplementation include people on anti-rejection medication after transplant; people on immunosuppressive medication or corticosteroids and chemotherapy for cancer, and people with autoimmune diseases; people with structural heart disease with valvular abnormality or valve replacement or a history of infective endocarditis; and people with acute Abd

    “People on anti-rejection medication after a stem cell or solid organ transplant.People on immunosuppressive medication or corticosteroids and chemotherapy for cancer, and people with autoimmune diseases.”
    • Also stated in: § 9. The Side Effects and Risks of Probiotics · plain
      “People with structural heart disease with valvular abnormality or valve replacement or a history of infective endocarditis.People with acute abdomen, active intestinal disease including colitis and the presence of neutropenia or the anticipation of neutropenia after chemotherapy and radiotherapy or the presence of active intestinal perforation and leakage [237].”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [237] Doron, 2015, Risk and Safety of Probiotics, Clin. Infect. Dis. source

      Not checked in the free run.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Probiotics are crucial in maintaining the balance of the human intestinal microbiota.

    “Probiotics are crucial in maintaining the balance of the human intestinal microbiota”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    Aging and genetics influence the composition and diversity of the microbiome, but modifiable factors such as diet, exercise, exposure to exogenous microbes, and antibiotic use may be more important for achieving microbiota eubiosis.

    “While aging and genetics influence the composition and diversity of the microbiome, other modifiable factors, such as diet, exercise, exposure to exogenous microbes, and antibiotic use, may be more important for achieving microbiota eubiosis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    The evidence for the role of the microbiome/microbiota in human health (acute and chronic) is now relevant, and the influence of microorganisms goes beyond the gut to incorporate the brain, metabolism, and immune system.

    “The evidence for the role of the microbiome/microbiota in human health (acute and chronic) is now relevant, with the specification that the influence of our microorganisms goes beyond the gut to incorporate the brain, metabolism, and immune system.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisenone given

    Numerous scientific reports have confirmed that probiotics have a positive effect on human health.

    “until now numerous scientific reports have confirmed their positive effect on human health”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    There is an opportunity to find ways to live in harmony with our microbiome through consumption of probiotics or fermented foods/supplements that have probiotics included in the matrix, which may provide large-scale health benefits.

    “Reviewing the literature, there is a tantalizing opportunity to find ways to live in harmony with our microbiome through the consumption of probiotics or fermented foods/supplements that have probiotics included in the matrix, which may provide large-scale health benefits.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
69 of 69

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Disruptions in the composition of the gut microbiota can disrupt its function and improve the gut barrier, resulting in low-grade chronic inflammation.

    “Research indicates that disruptions in the composition of the gut microbiota can disrupt its function and improve the gut barrier, resulting in low-grade chronic inflammation.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Inflammation has considerable effects on host adiposity and insulin resistance.

    “With the appearance of inflammation, the effects are considerable for the adiposity of the host and also insulin resistance.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Live microorganisms in fermented foods have been used for centuries without causing human disease.

    “Live microorganisms in fermented foods have been used for centuries without causing human disease.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Probiotic supplements containing a variety of microorganisms in powder, pill, or liquid form are safe for most people to take daily.

    “Probiotic supplements (containing a variety of microorganisms in powder, pill, or liquid form) are safe for most people to take daily.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Some probiotic foods, especially fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi, contain high levels of biogenic amines, including histamine, tyramine, tryptamine, and phenylethylamine, which can trigger headaches and migraines in some people.

    “Some probiotic foods, especially fermented foods (e.g., sauerkraut and kimchi), contain high levels of biogenic amines, including histamine, tyramine, tryptamine, and phenylethylamine, which are compounds that can trigger headaches and migraines in some people.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Probiotics, being living organisms, may cause infections that must be treated with antibiotics, especially in people with underlying conditions.

    “In addition to side effects, there is also the risk that probiotics (being living organisms) may cause infections that must be treated with antibiotics, especially in people with underlying conditions.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Many probiotic strains are genetically modified in the laboratory to obtain their health benefits.

    “To obtain their health benefits, many of the probiotic strains are genetically modified in the laboratory.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Fecal microbiota transplantation helps restore the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria, thus restoring intestinal health.

    “It helps to restore the balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria, thus restoring intestinal health.”

  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The new next-generation probiotic candidates represent a significant proportion of the currently cultivable human gut microbiome.

    “These new candidates represent a significant proportion of the currently cultivable human gut microbiome.”
9 of 9

Claims other papers make about this one

Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?

  • The selected products represent globally established probiotic categories, including lactic acid bacteria, Bifidobacterium spp., spore-forming Bacillus spp., and yeast-based probiotics.

    “Also, these products represent globally established probiotic categories, including lactic acid bacteria (notably Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and other Lactobacillus spp.), Bifidobacterium spp., spore-forming Bacillus spp., and yeast-based probiotics (S. boulardii).”

    From Safety and efficacy concerns in Indian probiotics: Insights from whole-genome sequencing and <i>in vitro</i> assessment (2026) · cites this paper as [10]

    Section 2 (page unavailable) describes Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces, and Bacillus as commonly used probiotic groups; section 5.2 specifically names L. rhamnosus GG and S. boulardii as frequently used strains. The copy does not describe the Bacillus probiotics as spore-forming, so it does not support that qualifier. (LLM, conf=0.85)

    Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

  • These taxa account for the majority of probiotic strains evaluated in clinical trials worldwide and have well-documented roles in gastrointestinal health and diarrheal disease management.

    “Collectively, these taxa account for the majority of probiotic strains evaluated in clinical trials worldwide and have well-documented roles in gastrointestinal health and diarrheal disease management.10-12”

    From Safety and efficacy concerns in Indian probiotics: Insights from whole-genome sequencing and <i>in vitro</i> assessment (2026) · cites this paper as [10]

    Section 5.2 describes benefits of several probiotic strains for gastrointestinal conditions and diarrhea, and calls S. boulardii and L. rhamnosus GG the most frequently used strains. It does not establish that the taxa collectively account for a majority of strains evaluated in clinical trials worldwide. The same section also notes uncertainty about probiotics’ ability to shorten acute diarrhea. (LLM, conf=0.85)

    Experimental — accuracy not yet measured

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • A retrospective study is described as a randomized trial

    Minor

    The text describes study [153] as randomized and placebo-controlled, but its reference title identifies it as a retrospective study.

  • A meta-analysis is described as a clinical trial

    Minor

    The paper says Yeh et al. conducted a clinical trial, but both the following sentence and reference [180] identify the work as a meta-analysis.

  • Dose range does not match the stated CFU powers of ten

    Minor

    The stated range of 1 to 10 billion CFUs corresponds to 109-1010 CFUs, as the paper itself specifies earlier, not the printed 108-109 range.

  • El-Saadony et al. are assigned the wrong reference number

    Minor

    Reference [22] is by Mackowiak, while the El-Saadony et al. paper appears as reference [23].

4 of 4

The citation lists haven’t been fetched yet

References 236 · Cited by 381

Research works printed but not linked: 4

  1. Vergin, 1954, Anti-und Probiotica, Hipokrates, 25, 116
  2. Abreu, 2021, Efficacy and safety of novel probiotic formulation in adult COVID 19 outpatients: A randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, Gut Microbes, 14, e2018899
  3. Prakash, V., Martin-Belloso, O., Keener, L., Astley, S.B., Braun, S., McMahon, H., and Lelieveld, H. (2015). Regulating Safety of Traditional and Ethnic Foods, Academic Press.
  4. Pujawan, 2004, Efforts to improve the quality of brem madiun with the addition of sodium bicarbonate, Boga Dan. Gizi., 3, 5

Authors
Maftei, N.-M., Raileanu, C. R., Balta, A. A., Ambrose, L., Boev, M., Marin, D. B., & Lisa, E. L.
Affiliations
  • "Dunarea de Jos" University of Galati (RO)
  • Department of Morphological and Functional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University, 800010 Galati, Romania
  • Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, and Pharmacy, “Dunărea de Jos” University, 800010 Galati, Romania
Corresponding author
  • Boev, Monica
  • Marin, Denisa Batîr
ORCID
Venue
Microorganisms
Publisher
MDPI AG
Published
2024-01-23
Volume
12
Issue
2
Pages
234
ISSN
2076-2607 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.3390/microorganisms12020234
PMC
PMC10891645
OpenAlex
W4391140271
Semantic Scholar
61371714113c77ae42bf81fc2165ac6bcebed272
Cited by
381
References
236
Citations by year
2026: 127 · 2025: 187 · 2024: 67
FWCI
14.05
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Microorganisms (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
Funders
&quot;Dunarea de Jos&quot; University of Galati (3127522)
Topics
  • Life Sciences › Agricultural and Biological Sciences › Food Science › Probiotics and Fermented Foods
  • Life Sciences › Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology › Molecular Biology › Gut microbiota and health
  • Health Sciences › Nursing › Nutrition and Dietetics › Infant Nutrition and Health
Keywords
probiotics, gut microbiota, fermented foods, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, obesity, prebiotics, symbiotics, postbiotics, live biotherapeutic products, genetically modified organisms, polyphenols, dietary fiber, disease prevention, probiotic mechanisms of action

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-09.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-09.

Statistics and arithmetic are recomputed, not judged.

Confidence bands are shown only for fields calibrated on our annotated test set. None is calibrated yet, so no band is shown.

What counts as a claim ›How we measure confidence ›How we check this ›

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