Probiotics are one the best healing foods. Probiotics are friendly bacteria that improve the balance of flora in the digestive system. The word probiotic means “for life”: pro + bios = “for life”.

Australian scientists have shown that a particular strain of probiotics could offer a possible cure for people with potentially fatal peanut allergies. Researchers gave 60 children who are allergic to peanuts either a probiotic along with a small dose of peanut protein or a placebo. The study showed that more than 80 % of children who received the protein and probiotic were able to tolerate peanuts without any allergic symptoms at the end of the trial. However, the researchers were quick to point out that probiotics for these type of allergies cases should be administered under strict medical supervision.

Probiotic yogurts are often promoted in supermarkets as one of the best healing foods available, but there are many critics who do not believe in its effectiveness, stating there is a lack of evidence demonstrating efficacy. On the contrary, there is much research evidence that points to the effectiveness of probiotics; many examples of the benefits of probiotics can be found in free healthcare apps like Apple A Day RX. The studies stated in the free healthcare app of integrative medicine shows the effectiveness of probiotic is highly dependent on the:

• ailment

• probiotic strain

• dose of the probiotic

To some extent, the critics are correct when they state that supermarket products claiming to be one of the best healing foods will have little effect, as its efficacy is dependent on the dose and strain of the probiotic. It is always advisable to use a probiotic supplement, but one must choose the appropriate strain and dosage.It is highly recommended to seek the advice of a practitioner of integrative medicine as they will check the strain and dose of the probiotic that have a therapeutic effect on the ailment that the client presents.

I have found that probiotics to be very useful in treating children with common ailments like digestive disorders or low immunity. My wife and I have used the well-reputed probiotic supplement for improving the immune status of our child when she was a toddler. It is something that every parent should consider for the wellbeing of their children.
If parents are not sure about what to purchase then they are advised to consult a CAM practitioner or Integrative medicine doctor.