A study has shown that children who drank a mixture of probiotics in milk twice a day had fewer colds, needed fewer antibiotics, and missed fewer days of school.

Probiotics keep runners in shape

20/2/2008

Endurance runners' strenuous training can erode their immunity, but a daily dose of "good" bacteria could bring their immune systems back up to speed.

Probiotics boost innate immunity

1/12/2006

A daily delayed-release tablet containing four probiotic strains boosted the innate immune system in healthy, non-elderly adults, says a pilot study.

Probiotics against IBS

1/12/2006

The probiotic strain B. infantis 35625 shows promise in normalising bowel movement frequency in irritable bowel syndrome patients with constipation or diarrhoea.

Prebiotics could curb obesity

1/12/2006

The prebiotics inulin and oligofructose could offer ways of stemming the tide of obesity, or could change immune responses and protect against potentially harmful infections.

Prebiotics a boon to the bones?

1/12/2006

Research to date on how prebiotics inulin and oligofructose may improve bone health are highly promising, but human trials are needed to confirm the benefits.

Lactose intolerance: some dairy OK

1/12/2006

Children with lactose intolerance are missing out on essential nutrients by avoiding dairy, and could benefit from probiotics and aged cheeses, experts say.

Good bacteria always at work

1/12/2006

So-called good bacteria in the intestines, which may help people with inflammatory bowel disease, allergies and some forms of cancer, work even when they're inactive, says a recent study.

Fight eczema with pre- & probiotics

1/12/2006

A combination of probiotics and prebiotics for newborns reduced the incidence of eczema by 34 percent in high-risk children, says a new study from Finland.

Elderly should take probiotics

1/12/2006

Elderly people should take probiotic supplements - including drinks, capsules or yoghurt - to protect themselves against bowel conditions, experts advise.