Probiotic drinks: There is no evidence products benefit healthy adults, research claims
The probiotic market is worth an estimated £19.7 billion globally
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.There is no evidence that probiotic products, such as health drinks and yogurts, have health benefits for healthy adults, research has claimed.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen conducted a review of seven studies of the products to evaluate whether they have health benefits. The systematic review concluded that there is no evidence that the products alter the composition of faecal bacteria in adults who are not suffering from an existing medical condition related to bacteria.
The review's authors conclude: "Overall, this systematic review demonstrates that there is no convincing evidence for consistent effects of probiotics on fecal microbiotica composition in healthy adults. No effects were observed on the fecal microbiotica composition in terms of a-diversity, richness, or evenness in any of the included studies when compared to a placebo."
The review notes that one study showed some benefits for people who already have an existing gastro-intestinal condition, but no notable improvement or positive effects were evident in healthy trial participants.
The priobiotic market is valued at an estimated £19.7 billion worldwide.
In the UK, six in ten households regularly buy a probiotic food product such as health drinks or yogurt.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments