PROBIOTIC USE IN CHILDREN: CURRENT EVIDENCE ON GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH, EFFICACY, AND SAFETY

7th INTERNATIONAL ISTANBUL CURRENT SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH CONGRESS, İstanbul, Türkiye, 13 - 15 Şubat 2026, ss.400-401, (Özet Bildiri)

Probiotics are described as viable microorganisms that, when consumed in sufficient

quantities, provide beneficial effects on host health. The gut microbiota is a complex and

dynamic community consisting of bacteria, fungi, and viruses inhabiting the gastrointestinal

tract, and it is essential for immune system regulation, preservation of intestinal barrier

function, control of inflammatory responses, and regulation of metabolic activities. The

development of the gut microbiota during childhood is of critical importance for the proper

functioning of immune and metabolic systems.

Recent studies indicate that probiotics are effective in children, particularly in the prevention

and reduction of the duration of acute infectious diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, as well as Saccharomyces boulardii, are among

the most extensively studied strains with demonstrated efficacy. Cochrane reviews have

shown that probiotic use provides significant benefits in preventing antibiotic-associated

diarrhea. In contrast, evidence supporting the effectiveness of probiotics in functional

constipation is limited, and current clinical guidelines do not recommend their routine use for

this indication. Although some studies suggest potential benefits of probiotics in conditions

such as allergic rhinitis, asthma, and prolonged neonatal jaundice, the level of evidence in

these areas remains inconclusive.

Probiotics are generally considered safe; however, caution is advised in premature infants and

in children with immunodeficiency or severe chronic illnesses due to the risk of invasive

infections. In clinical practice, careful consideration should be given to strain selection,

dosage, duration of administration, and clear definition of the indication for probiotic use.

Preference should be given to guideline-recommended strains and products with appropriate

quality control.

In conclusion, probiotics may serve as a beneficial supportive therapeutic option for

improving gastrointestinal health in children when used in appropriate patient groups with the

correct strains and dosages. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to enable the

development of personalized approaches and to clearly evaluate long-term safety and

efficacy.

Keywords: Probiotics; Child health; Gut microbiota; Gastrointestinal diseases; Antibiotic-

associated diarrhea