The aim of this article is to help readers understand the changes that occur in gastrointestinal bacterial population, or microflora, as people age, how these changes affect health and nutrition, and how probiotic supplements can help manage them. The authors conclude that, although more work is needed to determine the properties of specific strains and formulations, there is sufficient evidence to warrant further research and support the regular use of probiotics, providing that the potential risks are assessed beforehand.
Primary Health Care. 24, 8, 35-41. doi: 10.7748/phc.24.8.35.e835
Correspondence Peer reviewThis article has been subject to double blind peer review
Conflict of interestBoth authors are employees of Probiotics International Ltd, a manufacturer of probiotic products
Received: 08 October 2013
Accepted: 24 March 2014
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