What are Probiotics?
Our bodies are full of bacteria. Some bacteria make us sick, some help keep us well. Probiotics are foods or nutrition supplements that contain the good bacteria. Most of these organisms are ones that are already present in our bodies, but not always in sufficient quantity to be of the most benefit.
How Can Probiotics Help People with Cystic Fibrosis?
Several studies have been done about the benefits of probiotics. Two recent Italian studies have shown that the probiotic organism, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), can benefit cystic fibrosis patients in a couple of ways.
In the first study, the researchers just looked at the benefits to the intestines. They found that cystic fibrosis patients who take LGG may have a reduction in the intestinal inflammation that often causes them pain
A few years later, the same researchers decided to take it one step further and see how LGG affects the lungs of CF patients. They found that cystic fibrosis patients who took LGG regularly had less bouts with respiratory infections than those that didn’t take LGG.
Where Can I Find LGG?
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is available over the counter at many health food stores and pharmacies in capsule form. It is also available in some brands of yogurt.
There are many products, including most yogurts with active cultures, that contain Lactobacillus acidophilus. While Lactobacillus acidophilus is a beneficial probiotic, it is not the same as LGG. Read the label carefully to be sure you’re a getting a product that contains LGG.
Sources:
Bruzzese, E., Raia, V., Gaudiello, G., Polito, G., Buccigrossi, V., & Formicola, V. (2004). Intestinal inflammation is a frequent feature of cystic fibrosis and is reduced by probiotic administration. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 20, 813-819
Bruzzese, E., Raia, V., Spagnuolo, M.I., Volpicelli, M., De Marco, G., Maiuri, L. (2007). Effect of Lactobacillus GG supplementation on pulmonary exacerbations in patients with cystic fibrosis: A pilot study. Clinical Nutrition. 26, 322-328.
