Probiotics for Gastrointestinal and Liver Diseases: An Updated Review of the Published Literature

Background: Probiotics can be viewed as biological agents that modify the intestinal microbiota and certain cytokine profiles, which can lead to an improvement in certain gastrointestinal diseases, including diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver disease. Discussion: Consumption of probiotics in their various forms, including yogurt, functional foods, and dietary supplements, is frequently encountered worldwide. Often, however, the correct prescription of these agents is dampened due to a lack of knowledge of the scientific evidence and the different presentations and microbial compositions of the currently available probiotic options. Here, we provide an up-to-date review of the evidence of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of various gastrointestinal diseases. Objective: Consumption of probiotics in their various forms, including yogurt, functional foods, and dietary supplements, is frequently encountered worldwide. Often, however, the correct prescription of these agents is dampened due to a lack of knowledge of the scientific evidence and the different presentations and microbial compositions of the currently available probiotic options. Methods/Results: Here, we provide an up-to-date review of the evidence of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of various gastrointestinal diseases. Conclusion: While not efficacious in every disease process studied, probiotics have demonstrated some benefit in several specific gastrointestinal and liver diseases.