Abstract
Probiotics are products containing living, non-pathogenic microorganisms, particularly lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, which have beneficial effects. Each strain has different characteristics. Well-controlled human studies are essential before stating any health claims. It is, however, important to distinguish between beneficial effects on health including disease reduction, and use as part of the treatment of a specific disease. In this issue of SJN, a comprehensive special article by Nils-Georg Asp and TorkelWadström summarizes lectures presented at a conference on probiotics in September 2003 in Stockholm, Sweden. In four additional Review Articles on the topic “Probiotics in gastric and intestinal disorders” the latest news in this rapidly expanding scientific field is published.