Probiotics

Probiotics are live, non-pathogenic microorganisms that are administered for the intended purpose of improving health. Oral administration. ^{(Cucalón 2020, Gibson 2017, Williams2010)}

As of the last review, there is no valid scientific evidence that the use of probiotics is effective in treating mastitis or breast pain in women. ^{(WHO 2022, Crepinsek 2020, Barker 2020, Paricio 2017, Espínola 2016, Amir 2016, Baeza 2015, Amir 2014)}

Its indiscriminate use can delay other treatments and be financially burdensome. ^{(WHO 2022, Amir 2016)}

Evidence that orally administered can get into the milk is lacking. ^{(Elias 2011)}

The use of presumably preventive probiotics during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of mastitis and other complications of breastfeeding during the first month of breastfeeding. ^{(Karlsson 2019)}

The administration of probiotics to the mother may partially alter the composition of milk: changes have been shown in the lipid profile, IgA levels (increase or decrease depending on studies) and in other immunological factors as cytokines IL-27, TGF-β1 and TGF-β2 ^{(Kubota 2014, Nikniaz 2013, Luoto 2012, Hoppu 2012, Prescott 2008, Böttcher 2008)}. The impact and importance of this are not well known.

Research on the use of probiotics for treatment or prevent various pathological conditions, necrotizing enterocolitis, asthma, atopic dermatitis ^{(Wickens 2013, Rautava 2012 y 2002, Boyle 2011, Foisy 2011, Dotterud 2010)}, colicky pain, mastitis ^{(Fernández 2014, Arroyo 2010, Jiménez 2008)}, breast pain, vaginitis, gastroenteritis (see specific sheet of Saccharomyces boulardii) and inflammatory bowel disease, among others, is very promising, but so far with very modest results and the lack of significant scientific level 1 evidence based. ^{(WHO 2022, Crepinsek 2020, Barker 2020, Ehrhardt 2016, Foisy 2011, Thomas 2010, Boyle 2006)}

Probiotics seem to be safe ^{(Snydman 2008, Borriello 2002)}, except in cases of Immune disease, severe intestinal compromise, diabetes or heart disease in the mother and prematurity ^{(Sotoudegan 2019, Doron 2015, Boyle 2006)}. Although rare, there have been cases of serious probiotic infections when administering probiotics in patients with any of these pathological conditions. ^{(Poncelet 2021, Chakravarty 2019, Cavicchiolo 2019, Celis 2019, Martin 2017, Hayes 2016, Land 2005, Mackay 1999, Rautio 1999)}

Probiotic mixtures (more than single strains) decrease the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants. ^{(Robertson 2019, Bührer 2019, Bi 2019)}

Breast milk is an important source of probiotics and probiotics ^{(Walker 2013, Weng 2013, Weber 2012, Novak 2001)}. It contains numerous species of saprophytic bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus salivarius, Enterococci , Lactobacilli) with immuno-modulatory and anti-inflammatory properties that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus ^{(Heikkilä 2003)}. Also, contains oligosaccharides that promote the growth of these commensal bacteria in the infant gut .

Breastfeeding plays a fundamental role in the colonization of the newborn gut ^{(Walker 2013, Weber 2012, Martín 2012, Thum 2012, Penders 2006)}. During the first years of life intestinal flora of infants varies according to whether or not breastfed.

See below the information of these related products:

• Maternal Mastitis (Safe product and/or breastfeeding is the best option.)
• Saccharomyces boulardii (Safe product and/or breastfeeding is the best option.)