Probiotics Are Everywhere. Scientists Still Can’t Agree if They Actually Help

By Daniel Bastardo Blanco
Jul 26, 2019 7:39 PMDec 23, 2019 3:43 AM
Human Gut Microbiome - Shutterstock
(Credit: T. L. Furrer/Shutterstock)

Newsletter

Sign up for our email newsletter for the latest science news
 

What if I told you that countless tiny beings living inside your body right now were responsible for everything from the health of your gut to your mental health? It sounds crazy. But, that’s exactly what research into the microbiome is showing us.

Tens of trillions of bacteria inhabit our bodies — scientists call them the human microbiome. The past decade or so has seen an explosion of studies linking gut bacteria with all sorts of diseases and conditions, from obesity to schizophrenia. The findings suggest managing our microbiome will help us stay healthy. And to do that, companies have encapsulated live bacteria in pills, called probiotics, that you can buy everywhere from Amazon to the local grocery store. But do they actually work or is all just hype?

The Microbiomes’ Little Helpers

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines probiotics as “live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” In other words, they are live bacteria that help our bodies stay heathy.

0 free articles left
Want More? Get unlimited access for as low as $1.99/month

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

0 free articlesSubscribe
Discover Magazine Logo
Want more?

Keep reading for as low as $1.99!

Subscribe

Already a subscriber?

Register or Log In

Stay Curious

Sign up for our weekly newsletter and unlock one more article for free.

 

View our Privacy Policy


Want more?
Keep reading for as low as $1.99!


Log In or Register

Already a subscriber?
Find my Subscription

More From Discover
Recommendations From Our Store
Shop Now
Stay Curious
Join
Our List

Sign up for our weekly science updates.

 
Subscribe
To The Magazine

Save up to 40% off the cover price when you subscribe to Discover magazine.

Copyright © 2024 Kalmbach Media Co.