I completed my PhD on 2017 from University of Calcutta in Food and Nutrition. I am a Nutrition consultant. https://www.facebook.com/Dr-Sagarika-Chakraborty-Diet-and-Nutrition-Consultant-102471488756906I am also a Nutrition Blogger in Wellness Munch. https://wellnessmunch.com/ Phone: 7008228506 Address: Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the ... more Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the small amount of dried greens in the daily diet improves its nutritive value. An extended review of the literature revealed that cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) is widely consumed in India, but its nutritious leaves are usually thrown away by the people due to the ignorance. These low-cost, easily available, seasonal greens are rich in protein and micronutrients which can be utilized as a “natural fortificant” to enrich the common recipes. Nowadays dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) is used to prepare many value-added products, like wheat noodles, biscuits, cookies, chocolates, various types of snacks, chapatti, pancake, functional beverage, etc., which are well-accepted. Human studies showed that regular intake of CLP-enriched recipes improved the nutritional status of the participants and helps to prevent and treat protein-energy malnutrition, anaemia, vitamin-A deficiency disorders. The nutritional and curative potentials of less utilized cauliflower leaf should be properly utilized to prepare low-cost, nutrientdense supplementary foods which will be helpful in improving the nutritional status of common people, reducing the vegetable waste generation and widen the food basket.
Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calci... more Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calcium. Animal studies suggested that eggshell is a natural source of bioavailable calcium. Microbiological studies indicated that the pathogenic microorganisms present in eggshell can be eliminated by proper processing, making it safe for human consumption. Human studies revealed that eggshell powder (ESP) has the potential to improve the bone mineral density and to favour the remineralisation of enamel surface lesion of teeth. It is effective to clear the urinary stones. Due to the presence of a little amount of strontium and other beneficial microminerals and a lesser amount of toxic substances, eggshell is a superior source of calcium than the oyster shell calcium. It may be used as an alternative source of calcium supplement. Regular use of little amount ESP added to our daily recipes may largely improve the calcium status of the individuals. Scientists conducted several studies on the ...
Research and Reviews: Journal of Dairy Science and Technology, 2019
Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calci... more Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calcium. Animal studies suggested that eggshell is a natural source of bioavailable calcium. Microbiological studies indicated that the pathogenic microorganisms present in eggshell can be eliminated by proper processing, making it safe for human consumption. Human studies revealed that eggshell powder (ESP) has the potential to improve the bone mineral density and to favour the remineralisation of enamel surface lesion of teeth. It is effective to clear the urinary stones. Due to the presence of a little amount of strontium and other beneficial microminerals and a lesser amount of toxic substances, eggshell is a superior source of calcium than the oyster shell calcium. It may be used as an alternative source of calcium supplement. Regular use of little amount ESP added to our daily recipes may largely improve the calcium status of the individuals. Scientists conducted several studies on the utilization of eggshell powder in human nutrition. Calcium enriched bakery products (like cakes, bread, biscuits, etc.) and dairy products (like yoghurt, milk beverage, etc.) were prepared by a few researchers using different levels of ESP which showed that ESP can easily be utilized to increase the calcium content of processed foods. ESP can also be added to the daily diet of human beings. From the extensive review of literature, it is clear that eggshell is the best option among natural, cheap, bioavailable sources of calcium which are safe for human consumption.
Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the ... more Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the small amount of dried greens in the daily diet improves its nutritive value. An extended review of the literature revealed that cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) is widely consumed in India, but its nutritious leaves are usually thrown away by the people due to the ignorance. These low-cost, easily available, seasonal greens are rich in protein and micronutrients which can be utilized as a "natural fortificant" to enrich the common recipes. Nowadays dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) is used to prepare many value-added products, like wheat noodles, biscuits, cookies, chocolates, various types of snacks, chapatti, pancake, functional beverage, etc., which are well-accepted. Human studies showed that regular intake of CLP-enriched recipes improved the nutritional status of the participants and helps to prevent and treat protein-energy malnutrition, anaemia, vitamin-A deficiency disorders. The nutritional and curative potentials of less utilized cauliflower leaf should be properly utilized to prepare low-cost, nutrientdense supplementary foods which will be helpful in improving the nutritional status of common people, reducing the vegetable waste generation and widen the food basket.
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, 2018
The nutritional scenario in the urban slums of Kolkata is not satisfactory. The situation of maln... more The nutritional scenario in the urban slums of Kolkata is not satisfactory. The situation of malnutrition is more severe in other districts of W. B. compared to Kolkata city. Malnutrition is widely prevalent among the socio-economically backward communities. It is more profound in rural and tribal areas than the urban areas. Reviewing a large number of malnutrition studies in different parts of West Bengal clearly indicate that malnutrition is not confined to a specific age-group, rather it is well-spread among individuals from different age-groups. Undernutrition sets in the very early age of life, starting from infancy, and continues throughout the childhood, adolescent period and adulthood. However, the extent and type of malnutrition vary from one age to another. The dietary inadequacy of the poor people results in a deficiency of both macronutrients and micronutrients which causes undernutrition among all age groups. The tribal populations are suffering from severe nutritional stress. The alarming situation of malnutrition in West Bengal needs an urgent attention of the government and non-government organizations working in this field. To overcome the problem of widespread malnutrition various low-cost nutritious foods are to be popularized in the rural and tribal areas and the awareness regarding health and nutrition of the poor people should be improved. Improvement of the literacy level of the common people is essential.
Calcium essential for maintaining several physiological functions. However, most Indians usually ... more Calcium essential for maintaining several physiological functions. However, most Indians usually consume low-calcium diet. There is evidence of widespread osteoporosis and reduced bone mass, particularly in post calcium content varies as the pro collected, washed, weighed and dried in five different ways namely sun microwave again. All the drying methods produced good quality CLP but the total yields (calcium contents (varies.Roasting is the best method for the preparation of C disadvantages of five processing methods used. It is suggested that roasted CLP can be used as vegetable calcium supplement which can easily be incorporated into the many recipes commonly used in the day reducing the prevalence of calcium deficiency disorder.
International Journal of Science and Research , 2016
In India, under-nutrition is widely prevalent in spite of availability of various types of highly... more In India, under-nutrition is widely prevalent in spite of availability of various types of highly nutritious, less familial, low-cost, nutritious green leafy vegetables (GLVs). Cauliflower (Brassica oleraceae) leaf is a widely grown, neglected, nutritious GLV which is wasted due to ignorance of the common people. It can be explored to improve nutritional scenario of our country. Quantitative estimation of macro-nutrients in domestically processed dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) showed that 100g CLP contains 319.88 Kcal energy, 40.14g carbohydrate, 27.77g protein, 5.36g fat, 8.55g fibre, 13.98g total ash and 4.2g moisture. It can be used to enrich many common recipes like roti, puri, paratha, soup, besan, dal etc. Cauliflower leaves, which are generally thrown away, can be utilized to improve the nutritional status of the population.
International Journal of Life Sciences Research , 2018
Free radicals are spontaneously produced by living organisms because of normal cellular metabolis... more Free radicals are spontaneously produced by living organisms because of normal cellular metabolism and/or environmental factors. These radicals attack biological macromolecules like proteins, fatty acids, and nucleic acids, causing oxidative damage to tissues and even gene mutation. When there is an overload of free radicals, they cannot gradually be destroyed and thus, are accumulated in the body producing oxidative stress. The latter is closely related to the aging process and the onset of several chronic diseases such as cardiac disorders, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and cancer. Dietary antioxidants scavenge the excess free radicals, avoiding oxidative damage of the cell and preventing the onset and progression of many chronic diseases. The common sources of dietary antioxidants Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Vitamin E (tocopherol), Carotenoids (β-carotene, lycopene and astaxanthin), plant polyphenols present in fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, red wine, honey and cocoa beans, certain minerals (e.g. zinc, selenium) and selective spices (like turmeric, ginger, peppers etc.). An extensive review of the literature showed that antioxidant rich foods play a beneficial role in the prevention of many diseases. Grape juice, red wine, berries, tomato extract (lycopene), chocolates, cocoa green and black tea etc. are cardiac-friendly foods. They help to reduce blood pressure, improve lipid profile, prevents atherosclerosis. Soybean Isoflavones protect against obesity and co-morbidities. Tocopherol and green tea have certain neuroprotective effects, preventing neuro-degenerative diseases. Dietary polyphenols, vitamin E and C, Selenium, isoflavones reduce the cancer risk. Vitamin C has a potential role in the prevention of hyperuricemia and gout.
International Conference on Advances in Food Science and Technology (AFSTECH-2021), 2021
Preventive and Curative Potentials of Probiotics
Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
... more Preventive and Curative Potentials of Probiotics Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
Background Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, taken with diet or as a supplement. A high level of probiotics in the gut provides a barrier against common pathogens. Frequent use of antibiotics disrupts the intestinal microbiota that has long-term health consequences like depletion of vitamins synthesis, reduced absorption of nutrients, and increased risks of diabetes, asthma, obesity, and infections. Fermented foods like yoghurt, curd, buttermilk, dosa, idli etc. are good sources of probiotics.
Research objective To know the curative potentials of probiotics.
Methodology An extensive review of literature from the online journals, reports and guidelines regarding “gut microbiota”, “role of probiotics in diseases” and “dietary sources of probiotics” help to summarises the beneficial effects of probiotics in health and diseases.
Salient findings / Results 1. Probiotics are effective to prevent and treat acute gut infections in children and to treat AAD. 2. Probiotics have anti-tumorigenic and anticarcinogenic properties. 3. They are effective to inhibit colon cancer and have protective roles against gastrointestinal cancers. 4. They can effectively treat UTI and bacterial vaginosis. 5. Probiotics may prevent CHD by reducing its risk factors. They have hypocholesteraemia, hypotriglyceridaemic and anti-obesity properties. 6. Probiotics possess hypoglycaemic effects in diabetic patients. 7. Probiotic supplementation may help to treat H. pylori infection and antibiotic-resistant microbial infections.
Conclusions. The interaction of gut microflora with food and pathogenic organisms influences the health and disease balance. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microflora. Intake of a probiotic-rich diet is a preventive measure against many lifestyle disorders and infectious diseases.
Keywords: Probiotics, gut microbiota, beneficial bacteria, disease prevention, fermented foods
Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the ... more Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the small amount of dried greens in the daily diet improves its nutritive value. An extended review of the literature revealed that cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) is widely consumed in India, but its nutritious leaves are usually thrown away by the people due to the ignorance. These low-cost, easily available, seasonal greens are rich in protein and micronutrients which can be utilized as a “natural fortificant” to enrich the common recipes. Nowadays dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) is used to prepare many value-added products, like wheat noodles, biscuits, cookies, chocolates, various types of snacks, chapatti, pancake, functional beverage, etc., which are well-accepted. Human studies showed that regular intake of CLP-enriched recipes improved the nutritional status of the participants and helps to prevent and treat protein-energy malnutrition, anaemia, vitamin-A deficiency disorders. The nutritional and curative potentials of less utilized cauliflower leaf should be properly utilized to prepare low-cost, nutrientdense supplementary foods which will be helpful in improving the nutritional status of common people, reducing the vegetable waste generation and widen the food basket.
Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calci... more Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calcium. Animal studies suggested that eggshell is a natural source of bioavailable calcium. Microbiological studies indicated that the pathogenic microorganisms present in eggshell can be eliminated by proper processing, making it safe for human consumption. Human studies revealed that eggshell powder (ESP) has the potential to improve the bone mineral density and to favour the remineralisation of enamel surface lesion of teeth. It is effective to clear the urinary stones. Due to the presence of a little amount of strontium and other beneficial microminerals and a lesser amount of toxic substances, eggshell is a superior source of calcium than the oyster shell calcium. It may be used as an alternative source of calcium supplement. Regular use of little amount ESP added to our daily recipes may largely improve the calcium status of the individuals. Scientists conducted several studies on the ...
Research and Reviews: Journal of Dairy Science and Technology, 2019
Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calci... more Eggshell is a waste product of the food industry. It is an excellent source of bioavailable calcium. Animal studies suggested that eggshell is a natural source of bioavailable calcium. Microbiological studies indicated that the pathogenic microorganisms present in eggshell can be eliminated by proper processing, making it safe for human consumption. Human studies revealed that eggshell powder (ESP) has the potential to improve the bone mineral density and to favour the remineralisation of enamel surface lesion of teeth. It is effective to clear the urinary stones. Due to the presence of a little amount of strontium and other beneficial microminerals and a lesser amount of toxic substances, eggshell is a superior source of calcium than the oyster shell calcium. It may be used as an alternative source of calcium supplement. Regular use of little amount ESP added to our daily recipes may largely improve the calcium status of the individuals. Scientists conducted several studies on the utilization of eggshell powder in human nutrition. Calcium enriched bakery products (like cakes, bread, biscuits, etc.) and dairy products (like yoghurt, milk beverage, etc.) were prepared by a few researchers using different levels of ESP which showed that ESP can easily be utilized to increase the calcium content of processed foods. ESP can also be added to the daily diet of human beings. From the extensive review of literature, it is clear that eggshell is the best option among natural, cheap, bioavailable sources of calcium which are safe for human consumption.
Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the ... more Among the poor people, dietary inadequacy of most nutrients is very common. The inclusion of the small amount of dried greens in the daily diet improves its nutritive value. An extended review of the literature revealed that cauliflower (Brassica oleracea) is widely consumed in India, but its nutritious leaves are usually thrown away by the people due to the ignorance. These low-cost, easily available, seasonal greens are rich in protein and micronutrients which can be utilized as a "natural fortificant" to enrich the common recipes. Nowadays dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) is used to prepare many value-added products, like wheat noodles, biscuits, cookies, chocolates, various types of snacks, chapatti, pancake, functional beverage, etc., which are well-accepted. Human studies showed that regular intake of CLP-enriched recipes improved the nutritional status of the participants and helps to prevent and treat protein-energy malnutrition, anaemia, vitamin-A deficiency disorders. The nutritional and curative potentials of less utilized cauliflower leaf should be properly utilized to prepare low-cost, nutrientdense supplementary foods which will be helpful in improving the nutritional status of common people, reducing the vegetable waste generation and widen the food basket.
International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, 2018
The nutritional scenario in the urban slums of Kolkata is not satisfactory. The situation of maln... more The nutritional scenario in the urban slums of Kolkata is not satisfactory. The situation of malnutrition is more severe in other districts of W. B. compared to Kolkata city. Malnutrition is widely prevalent among the socio-economically backward communities. It is more profound in rural and tribal areas than the urban areas. Reviewing a large number of malnutrition studies in different parts of West Bengal clearly indicate that malnutrition is not confined to a specific age-group, rather it is well-spread among individuals from different age-groups. Undernutrition sets in the very early age of life, starting from infancy, and continues throughout the childhood, adolescent period and adulthood. However, the extent and type of malnutrition vary from one age to another. The dietary inadequacy of the poor people results in a deficiency of both macronutrients and micronutrients which causes undernutrition among all age groups. The tribal populations are suffering from severe nutritional stress. The alarming situation of malnutrition in West Bengal needs an urgent attention of the government and non-government organizations working in this field. To overcome the problem of widespread malnutrition various low-cost nutritious foods are to be popularized in the rural and tribal areas and the awareness regarding health and nutrition of the poor people should be improved. Improvement of the literacy level of the common people is essential.
Calcium essential for maintaining several physiological functions. However, most Indians usually ... more Calcium essential for maintaining several physiological functions. However, most Indians usually consume low-calcium diet. There is evidence of widespread osteoporosis and reduced bone mass, particularly in post calcium content varies as the pro collected, washed, weighed and dried in five different ways namely sun microwave again. All the drying methods produced good quality CLP but the total yields (calcium contents (varies.Roasting is the best method for the preparation of C disadvantages of five processing methods used. It is suggested that roasted CLP can be used as vegetable calcium supplement which can easily be incorporated into the many recipes commonly used in the day reducing the prevalence of calcium deficiency disorder.
International Journal of Science and Research , 2016
In India, under-nutrition is widely prevalent in spite of availability of various types of highly... more In India, under-nutrition is widely prevalent in spite of availability of various types of highly nutritious, less familial, low-cost, nutritious green leafy vegetables (GLVs). Cauliflower (Brassica oleraceae) leaf is a widely grown, neglected, nutritious GLV which is wasted due to ignorance of the common people. It can be explored to improve nutritional scenario of our country. Quantitative estimation of macro-nutrients in domestically processed dry cauliflower leaf powder (CLP) showed that 100g CLP contains 319.88 Kcal energy, 40.14g carbohydrate, 27.77g protein, 5.36g fat, 8.55g fibre, 13.98g total ash and 4.2g moisture. It can be used to enrich many common recipes like roti, puri, paratha, soup, besan, dal etc. Cauliflower leaves, which are generally thrown away, can be utilized to improve the nutritional status of the population.
International Journal of Life Sciences Research , 2018
Free radicals are spontaneously produced by living organisms because of normal cellular metabolis... more Free radicals are spontaneously produced by living organisms because of normal cellular metabolism and/or environmental factors. These radicals attack biological macromolecules like proteins, fatty acids, and nucleic acids, causing oxidative damage to tissues and even gene mutation. When there is an overload of free radicals, they cannot gradually be destroyed and thus, are accumulated in the body producing oxidative stress. The latter is closely related to the aging process and the onset of several chronic diseases such as cardiac disorders, diabetes mellitus, neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease and cancer. Dietary antioxidants scavenge the excess free radicals, avoiding oxidative damage of the cell and preventing the onset and progression of many chronic diseases. The common sources of dietary antioxidants Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), Vitamin E (tocopherol), Carotenoids (β-carotene, lycopene and astaxanthin), plant polyphenols present in fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, red wine, honey and cocoa beans, certain minerals (e.g. zinc, selenium) and selective spices (like turmeric, ginger, peppers etc.). An extensive review of the literature showed that antioxidant rich foods play a beneficial role in the prevention of many diseases. Grape juice, red wine, berries, tomato extract (lycopene), chocolates, cocoa green and black tea etc. are cardiac-friendly foods. They help to reduce blood pressure, improve lipid profile, prevents atherosclerosis. Soybean Isoflavones protect against obesity and co-morbidities. Tocopherol and green tea have certain neuroprotective effects, preventing neuro-degenerative diseases. Dietary polyphenols, vitamin E and C, Selenium, isoflavones reduce the cancer risk. Vitamin C has a potential role in the prevention of hyperuricemia and gout.
International Conference on Advances in Food Science and Technology (AFSTECH-2021), 2021
Preventive and Curative Potentials of Probiotics
Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
... more Preventive and Curative Potentials of Probiotics Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
Background Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, taken with diet or as a supplement. A high level of probiotics in the gut provides a barrier against common pathogens. Frequent use of antibiotics disrupts the intestinal microbiota that has long-term health consequences like depletion of vitamins synthesis, reduced absorption of nutrients, and increased risks of diabetes, asthma, obesity, and infections. Fermented foods like yoghurt, curd, buttermilk, dosa, idli etc. are good sources of probiotics.
Research objective To know the curative potentials of probiotics.
Methodology An extensive review of literature from the online journals, reports and guidelines regarding “gut microbiota”, “role of probiotics in diseases” and “dietary sources of probiotics” help to summarises the beneficial effects of probiotics in health and diseases.
Salient findings / Results 1. Probiotics are effective to prevent and treat acute gut infections in children and to treat AAD. 2. Probiotics have anti-tumorigenic and anticarcinogenic properties. 3. They are effective to inhibit colon cancer and have protective roles against gastrointestinal cancers. 4. They can effectively treat UTI and bacterial vaginosis. 5. Probiotics may prevent CHD by reducing its risk factors. They have hypocholesteraemia, hypotriglyceridaemic and anti-obesity properties. 6. Probiotics possess hypoglycaemic effects in diabetic patients. 7. Probiotic supplementation may help to treat H. pylori infection and antibiotic-resistant microbial infections.
Conclusions. The interaction of gut microflora with food and pathogenic organisms influences the health and disease balance. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microflora. Intake of a probiotic-rich diet is a preventive measure against many lifestyle disorders and infectious diseases.
Keywords: Probiotics, gut microbiota, beneficial bacteria, disease prevention, fermented foods
Uploads
Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
Background
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, taken with diet or as a supplement. A high level of probiotics in the gut provides a barrier against common pathogens. Frequent use of antibiotics disrupts the intestinal microbiota that has long-term health consequences like depletion of vitamins synthesis, reduced absorption of nutrients, and increased risks of diabetes, asthma, obesity, and infections. Fermented foods like yoghurt, curd, buttermilk, dosa, idli etc. are good sources of probiotics.
Research objective
To know the curative potentials of probiotics.
Methodology
An extensive review of literature from the online journals, reports and guidelines regarding “gut microbiota”, “role of probiotics in diseases” and “dietary sources of probiotics” help to summarises the beneficial effects of probiotics in health and diseases.
Salient findings / Results
1. Probiotics are effective to prevent and treat acute gut infections in children and to treat AAD.
2. Probiotics have anti-tumorigenic and anticarcinogenic properties.
3. They are effective to inhibit colon cancer and have protective roles against gastrointestinal cancers.
4. They can effectively treat UTI and bacterial vaginosis.
5. Probiotics may prevent CHD by reducing its risk factors. They have hypocholesteraemia, hypotriglyceridaemic and anti-obesity properties.
6. Probiotics possess hypoglycaemic effects in diabetic patients.
7. Probiotic supplementation may help to treat H. pylori infection and antibiotic-resistant microbial infections.
Conclusions.
The interaction of gut microflora with food and pathogenic organisms influences the health and disease balance. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microflora. Intake of a probiotic-rich diet is a preventive measure against many lifestyle disorders and infectious diseases.
Keywords: Probiotics, gut microbiota, beneficial bacteria, disease prevention, fermented foods
Abbreviations used
• UTI: Urinary Tract Infection
• CHD: Coronary Heart Disease
• IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• IBD: Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• AAD: Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea.
Dr. Sagarika Chakraborty and Dr. Santa Datta De
Background
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, taken with diet or as a supplement. A high level of probiotics in the gut provides a barrier against common pathogens. Frequent use of antibiotics disrupts the intestinal microbiota that has long-term health consequences like depletion of vitamins synthesis, reduced absorption of nutrients, and increased risks of diabetes, asthma, obesity, and infections. Fermented foods like yoghurt, curd, buttermilk, dosa, idli etc. are good sources of probiotics.
Research objective
To know the curative potentials of probiotics.
Methodology
An extensive review of literature from the online journals, reports and guidelines regarding “gut microbiota”, “role of probiotics in diseases” and “dietary sources of probiotics” help to summarises the beneficial effects of probiotics in health and diseases.
Salient findings / Results
1. Probiotics are effective to prevent and treat acute gut infections in children and to treat AAD.
2. Probiotics have anti-tumorigenic and anticarcinogenic properties.
3. They are effective to inhibit colon cancer and have protective roles against gastrointestinal cancers.
4. They can effectively treat UTI and bacterial vaginosis.
5. Probiotics may prevent CHD by reducing its risk factors. They have hypocholesteraemia, hypotriglyceridaemic and anti-obesity properties.
6. Probiotics possess hypoglycaemic effects in diabetic patients.
7. Probiotic supplementation may help to treat H. pylori infection and antibiotic-resistant microbial infections.
Conclusions.
The interaction of gut microflora with food and pathogenic organisms influences the health and disease balance. Diet plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy gut microflora. Intake of a probiotic-rich diet is a preventive measure against many lifestyle disorders and infectious diseases.
Keywords: Probiotics, gut microbiota, beneficial bacteria, disease prevention, fermented foods
Abbreviations used
• UTI: Urinary Tract Infection
• CHD: Coronary Heart Disease
• IBS: Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• IBD: Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• AAD: Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea.