INTRODUCTION
Microbes are ubiquitous and are important factors in the overall
health of humans as well as the Earth. Efforts to optimize the intestinal
microbial milieu have increased the interest in adding probiotics
and prebiotics to nutritional products. As with antibiotics, the
use and efficacy of probiotics and prebiotics should be supported
by evidenced-based medicine. The purpose of this clinical report is
to review the medical uses of probiotics and prebiotics and to
summarize what is currently known about their health benefits as
dietary supplements added to food products marketed to children,
including infant formula. The guidance in this report will help pediatric
health care providers to make appropriate decisions regarding the usefulness and benefit of probiotics
and prebiotics for their
patients.