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Probiotics and Prebiotics Directory
Probiotics are "good" bacteria that help the body's digestive tract. Prebiotics are food ingredients that help support growth of probiotic bacteria. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about what probiotics and prebiotics are and how they work.
Medical Reference
Treating Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Diarrhea
WebMD explains the role of medications, diet, exercise, and stress management in managing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with diarrhea.
Alternative Treatments for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
WebMD provides an overview of alternative treatments used for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Herbs and Supplements for Fibromyalgia
WebMD provides information for people with fibromyalgia who are considering using herbs or supplements for their symptoms.
Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms most often used to promote healthy digestion. Get information about the types of probiotics, and their possible health benefits.
Features
The Good Bugs
When Little Miss Muffet sat on her tuffet eating her curds and whey, she may have been doing more than filling her tummy. 'Curds' is an old word for yogurt, and evidence is mounting that some of the bacteria contained in yogurt can prevent and treat diarrhea. They may also ease other ailments of the intestinal tract, and some researchers now advocate using these beneficial bacteria -- 'probiotics'
The Benefits of Yogurt
An explanation of the health benefits of yogurt.
Answers to Your Questions about Probiotics
Here are some answers to five common questions about probiotics and the products that contain them, from yogurt to supplements.
Ulcerative Colitis Treatment: Can Probiotics Help?
To ease the discomfort of ulcerative colitis, many people are trying probiotics. Do probiotics help? Here are the pros and cons.
Video
Alternative Therapies and the GI Tract
Leading GI specialist and psychiatrist, Dr. Douglas A. Drossman, offers insight on alternative therapies for digestive problems.
Groceries for Lactose Intolerance
Intro to Probiotics
What are probiotics and can they help you?
Probiotics: Risks and Benefits
Learn the risks and benefits of adding probiotics to your diet.
Slideshows & Images
8 Digestive Health Supplements
See 8 supplements to improve digestive health, including probiotics, psyllium, ginger, l-glutamine and more.
What to Do When Ulcerative Colitis Flares
Get tips to help soothe ulcerative colitis flares, from diarrhea to pain and fatigue. Learn how to fight back with medication, diet, and more.
Ulcerative Colitis Diet Tips and Mistakes
See how diet can affect your ulcerative colitis. Learn what foods can aggravate it and how to get the nutrition you need.
Foods With Probiotics
Beyond yogurt, see which foods have a surprising boost from probiotics -- good bacteria that may help tame your digestive problems.