Posted on 29th Nov 2010 @ 5:23 PM

Chicago — There's some evidence that probiotics, or "good" bacteria, may have limited benefits for certain illnesses in children, according to a new American Academy of Pediatrics report published today in the journal Pediatrics.

But the report says the science isn't yet strong enough to advocate infant formulas containing probiotics. And probiotics shouldn't be given to seriously ill children.

The report says probiotics taken early during diarrhea from a viral infection may shorten the illness in otherwise healthy children.

On the other hand, more evidence is needed before AAP can recommend probiotics for constipation, irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease.

From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20101129/NATION/11290318/Probiotics-may-have-some-benefits-for-kids#ixzz16i0bQDI9