Probiotic supplements and atopic dematitis:
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a long-term (chronic) skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes that is the most common allergy in babies and small children. In this review, researchers looked for trials testing whether or not probiotic supplements use during pregnancy and early life can prevent this type of dermatitis in infants and young children. Probiotics are “friendly bacteria” naturally found in yogurt. Probiotic tablets or liquid supplements can be used by pregnant women or by babies. The reviewers found 14 studies, mostly done between 2007 and 2011. They found a roughly 20% reduction in the rate of atopic dermatitis ((RR = 0.79). The results suggested that probiotics have a moderate role in the prevention of atopic dermatitis. It does not appear to matter at what time the probiotics are consumed (pregnancy or early life) nor who consumed them – child, mother or both. (66)