WHO has never drunk dairy products? Not only to be good for intestinal health, but it has a great taste that kids love.
However, not many people know the actual substance contained in it, namely several species of bacteria that are grouped together called probiotics or good bacteria.
The World Health Organization (WHO) explains that probiotics are live microorganisms which when consumed in sufficient quantities can affect a person’s health.
Shah Alam Hospital Pharmacy Officer, Zuhailah Mohd Shafawi said, apart from cultivated milk, probiotics can be found in preserved or fermented foods such as yogurt, soft cheese, pickled vegetables, and tempeh. Probiotics are also available in capsule form as a supplement.
There are some common questions about probiotics including;
- Are probiotic food products safe for pregnant or lactating women?
Generally considered safe for consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The good bacteria remain in the digestive system and do not enter the blood.
This means that the bacteria will not reach a growing fetus or a breastfed baby. It is best to seek medical advice before changing or adopting a diet. - Are all probiotic food products the same?
Not. Every probiotic food product is different and is formulated using different types and amounts of bacteria. - Can I take probiotic products when I have diarrhea due to antibiotics?
Yes. Diarrhea due to antibiotics is usually caused by dysbiosis (imbalance of the intestinal microbiota). Studies have proven the benefits of taking probiotics to restore normal gut microbiota. - Does consuming probiotic food products have any side effects?
Side effects are rare and most people can use probiotics without problems. You may experience flatulence and a little stomach discomfort if you take more than the recommended dose.
However, this state usually stops when your body begins to adjust.
- Are probiotics safe for children and the elderly?
Yes. Consumption of probiotic food products is generally safe for all groups, including children and the elderly. Consult your doctor first if you want to give probiotics to healthy babies.
Probiotics are live microorganisms which when consumed in sufficient quantities can affect a person’s health.
- Are all foods and beverages containing bacterial cultures considered probiotic foods?
Not. To consider food as a probiotic, it must meet the requirements specified in the food regulations by the Malaysian Ministry of Health (MOH).
Meanwhile, Zuhlai explained that although research has found that probiotics are safe for consumption, their intake may not be suitable for some types of diseases or conditions that involve a weakened immune system.
Generally, those who are at risk of infection are cancer patients, PLWHA, new patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation, and patients undergoing long-term steroid treatment.
“So far, several incidents have been recorded from around the world related to probiotic bacterial infection in the blood of cancer patients taking probiotic supplements. Most cases involve blood cancer patients in children and the elderly, “he explained.
Therefore, hematologists around the world agree that cancer patients suffering from neutropenia (a deficiency of neutrophil white blood cells) should not consume products containing probiotics.
This is because, according to Zuhlai, neutrophils are the body’s first line of defense against infection. Usually, patients who have recently undergone chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a bone marrow transplant will experience a significant reduction in the number of neutrophils.
In conclusion, probiotics are bacteria that are generally safe for consumption and must be consumed in sufficient quantities to provide health benefits.
“But certain conditions make it dangerous and less suitable for eating,” he said.
