Tag: Dead probiotics

According to scientific evidence, the viability of a microbial cell is not always a prerequisite for imparting health benefits to the host. The concept that dead probiotics can still be beneficial is a fascinating development in nutritional science, challenging traditional definitions and opening new avenues for health supplements.

Research indicates that while many expired probiotic products still contain some live bacteria, the number of viable cells is usually much lower than the effective dose. So, what happens if you consume expired probiotics, and is it a waste of your money?

According to the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics (ISAPP), probiotics are, by definition, live microorganisms that confer a health benefit. However, scientific evidence now shows that dead or inactivated microbes can also have positive effects on human health. This has led to the crucial question: are viable and dead probiotics equally efficacious in delivering these benefits?

While it seems counterintuitive that non-viable microorganisms could offer health benefits, research increasingly shows this to be true—a phenomenon some call the "probiotic paradox". These inactivated bacteria, now often referred to as paraprobiotics or postbiotics, work differently from their live counterparts by interacting with the body's immune and epithelial cells through their cellular components and metabolic byproducts. Their effects range from immune modulation and improved gut barrier function to protection against pathogens.

According to a 2017 report, global sales of probiotic supplements were estimated at $3.7 billion in 2016, a testament to their growing popularity. However, a key question for anyone pursuing a health-focused `nutrition diet` is: `Should probiotics be consumed in a live form` for maximum effectiveness?