Skip to main content
Article
The potential role of probiotics in reducing poverty-associated infections in developing countries
Journal of infections in develping countries (2007)
  • Kingsley C Anukam
Abstract
Probiotics are defined by the Food and Agricultural Organization/ World Health Organization as “live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host” [1]. The potential benefits of their use have not been adequately investigated, especially in the developing world. Japan introduced Yakult, a probiotic fermented food drink in 1935, and in the Northern hemisphere, research and use of probiotics has gained an unprecedented momentum in the last decade [2]. Use of probiotics is not uncommon in Europe [3], but in many developing countries use of probiotics in its present definition is a foreign concept. Some African traditional foods are fermented with lactic acid bacteria, and some may have probiotic properties, but clinical evidence is yet to be deciphered. Nonetheless, many communities rushing to “westernize” are losing their fermented food traditions.
Keywords
  • probiotics,
  • HIV,
  • developing countries
Publication Date
Fall October 22, 2007
Citation Information
Kingsley C Anukam. "The potential role of probiotics in reducing poverty-associated infections in developing countries" Journal of infections in develping countries Vol. 1 Iss. 2 (2007)
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/kingsley_anukam/20/