Caister Academic Press

Synbiotics: More Than Just the Sum of Pro- and Prebiotics?

Koen Venema
from: Probiotics and Prebiotics: Current Research and Future Trends (Edited by: Koen Venema and Ana Paula do Carmo). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2015) Pages: 345-360.

Abstract

This is a comprehensive but critical overview of the studies performed with synbiotics (products containing both probiotics and prebiotics) up to date. Most of the studies reviewed did not have the desired controls, i.e. arms with only the probiotic or only the prebiotic. This makes it impossible to judge whether the synbiotic (that is the combination of both probiotics and prebiotics) was required for the observed effect, or whether one of the components alone would have done the trick as well. Studies in adults, children and elderly, with and without disorders or diseases are highlighted. Only human trials are discussed, although a few in vitro studies and studies in experimental animals are reviewed to highlight potential mechanisms of action read more ...
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