Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Their use in supporting or treating enteritis—an inflammation of the small intestine that may result from infections, antibiotics, or other causes—has been the subject of considerable scientific investigation. Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that certain probiotic strains, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, can reduce the duration and severity of infectious diarrhea, which is a common cause of enteritis. Probiotics have also shown benefit in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a frequent complication in hospitalized patients that can progress to enteritis.

The proposed mechanisms include restoration of the gut microbial balance, enhancement of the intestinal barrier function, modulation of immune responses, and inhibition of pathogenic bacteria. The World Gastroenterology Organisation and several clinical guidelines recommend specific probiotics as adjunctive therapy for acute infectious diarrhea and to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, both of which involve enteritis. However, efficacy varies by probiotic strain, dose, and patient population. While evidence is robust for certain indications (e.g., rotavirus-related diarrhea in children), it is more limited or mixed for others. Overall, current scientific evidence justifies the use of selected probiotics as supportive treatment for enteritis, particularly of infectious origin.