Probiotics and Prebiotics for Crohn's Disease

A Japanese study published in the August issue of Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology shows that prebiotics and probiotics may be beneficial for treating Crohn's disease. In the study, 10 patients who were being treated with conventional drugs (5-ASA and corticosteroids), but still had symptoms, were also given high doses of prebiotics and probiotics. After 13 months, 6 of the patients achieved remission, one had a decrease in symptoms, and 3 patients had no response. No adverse effects were reported.

The authors conclude that more and larger studies are necessary, but that high doses of probiotics and prebiotics are effective and safe for use in Crohn's disease.

Source:
Shunji Fujimori, Atsushi Tatsuguchi, Katya Gudis, et al. High dose probiotic and prebiotic cotherapy for remission induction of active Crohn’s disease. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Aug 2007. Aug 23 2007.