Abstract

Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer a health benefit on the host when consumed in adequate amounts, such as Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Lactococcus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus, Clostridium, Saccharomyces, Aspergillus, and Escherichia coli species. Previous studies have reported beneficial effects of probiotics on intestinal infections, including Clostridium difficile antibiotic-associated diarrhea, rotavirus infection, traveler's diarrhea, and other bacterial enteric diseases. Although few studies have reported serious adverse effects from probiotics, more evidence-based research is required for an in-depth evaluation of probiotics in medical science. (Intest Res 2011;9:171-178)

• Keywords: Probiotics; Infection; Clostridium difficile; Rotavirus; Traveler's diarrhea