The Wall Street Journal (wsj.com) – Probiotics’ Benefits May Be More Than a Gut Feeling – By Sumathi Reddy – (Monday, November 26, 2012)-

 

Probiotics, believed to help with digestion, are increasingly being studied to treat wide-ranging conditions, from colic to cholesterol and the common cold.

 

One of the fastest-growing dietary supplements, probiotics are now prominent on drug and big-box store shelves. They are live microorganisms-or “good” bacteria-that when consumed in capsules or yogurt are said to confer a health benefit. So far, however, there is little scientific proof of their effectiveness-many studies of probiotics have involved less-than-rigorous research standards.