SAN ANTONIO -- A leading medical group said probiotics may be good for certain childhood illnesses. It’s a scientific boost for doctors who believe the natural supplement can help ease some common health complaints.
Dr. Larry Hoberman of Health by Design, 13409 George Road, in San Antonio has been preaching the power of probiotics for years. The gastroenterologist has created his own line called EndoMune as a daily dose of the so-called “good bacteria.”
“Initially when I started this it was because I’m in gastroenterology and I would see people who came in with lots of symptoms,” Hoberman said. “We didn’t have any really wonderful medication to give them that would be a home run.”
In the Monday, November 29, 2010 edition of the journal Pediatrics, the American Academy of Pediatrics said probiotics taken early during diarrhea from a viral infection may shorten the illness.
The study also said probiotics may prevent diarrhea in children taking antibiotics.
“The nice part about it is probiotics don’t have any adverse affects,” Hoberman stated.
His product for children is an odorless, tasteless powder. A quarter teaspoon is sprinkled on food or stirred into a drink. It pumps ten billion good bacteria into the system for a cost of less than a dollar day.
Hoberman suggested people check with their doctor before trying it with their children.
With more and more patients looking for cost-effective alternatives for prevention of sickness, Hoberman said he’s glad probiotics are getting some serious examination.
“It’s just been very gratifying to see how it’s made such a difference on many children,” he added.
Hoberman said there’s some clinical evidence to suggest probiotics may help with other problems like colic and eczema.
