In perhaps the largest research study of its kind, new data reveals that specific gut bacteria are involved in Crohn’s Disease.  Biopsies taken from patients with Crohn’s Disease revealed that certain beneficial microbes showed up in lesser amounts, while harmful bacteria flourished.  The use of antibiotics in this illness was also reviewed, due to it killing protective microbes, triggering bowel inflammation, and worsening patients symptoms. The study is paving the way for the use of novel probiotic therapies in this illness.

As antibiotic resistance increases due to the overprescription of patients, new studies support the theory that certain probiotic strains can overcome the resistant "superbugs" and kill problematic bacteria. One report confirms probiotics' ability to fight MRSA and several other viral infections effectively.

Recent reports are trickling in that probiotics can actually improve the quality of life in people affected by Celiac disease by reducing internal damage caused by gliadin, a protein in gluten foods that mediates inflammatory response.