Abstract
Probiotic strains can be successfully incorporated and manufactured into highly acceptable food products while retaining their viability and functionality. The development of successful probiotic products depends on the selection of probiotic strains for human consumption, proof of a therapeutic effect, strain survival, viability at the time of consumption and storage requirements. Dairy products have proven to be an excellent vehicle for the delivery of probiotics. Developing countries are reeling under the problems of acute and antibiotic associated diarrhea, HIV/ AIDS and poor nutritional status due to improper hygiene, sanitation, unavailability of safe drinking water and lack of awareness. Results of this review suggest a promising role of probiotic products in the inhibition of pathogenic microorganisms, reduction of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, alleviation of acute diarrheal diseases especially in infants and children, protection against HIV/AIDS, management of lactose intolerance, lowering blood cholesterol levels, improving the nutritional status of the population, allergy prevention and as a vaccine adjuvant in developing countries. Educational campaigns to inform the population and policy makers about the health benefits of probiotics could help alleviate these problems in a safe way without great effort and with minimal increase in the cost of such probiotic products.
Highlights
According to the United Nations Development Programme report in 2010, many developing countries in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East are considered to have a gross income and a quality of life index below average [1]
In a study on 64 women aged between 19-46 years of age it was found that oral consumption of two probiotic strains L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14 led to significant increase in vaginal Lactobacilli levels as compared to placebo group after 60 days
In another study it was found that consumption of probiotic yogurt supplemented with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 by consumers suffering from HIV/AIDS helped in their weight gain, they had significantly higher levels of vitamins and minerals, fewer fungal infections, fewer episodes of diarrhea and lower fatigue levels as compared to people not consuming the probiotic yogurt [64]
Summary
According to the United Nations Development Programme report in 2010, many developing countries in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East are considered to have a gross income and a quality of life index below average [1]. The conditions that need to be met for probiotic microorganisms to achieve their potential health benefits include being delivered at a high dose through food vehicles (especially dairy products such as yogurt, cheese, and ice cream); and being able to remain viable when they reach the intestine.
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