Evidence supporting the use of: Probiotics
For the health condition: Mastitis
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Probiotics have garnered scientific interest as a supportive therapy for mastitis, particularly lactational mastitis in breastfeeding women. Mastitis is commonly caused by bacterial infection, often involving Staphylococcus aureus. Traditional antibiotics are effective, but concerns about antibiotic resistance and disruption of the normal microbiota have led to exploration of alternatives such as probiotics. Several randomized controlled trials and clinical studies, particularly those conducted in Spain, have investigated the use of probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus salivarius, isolated from human milk. These studies (for example, Fernández et al., 2016, and Arroyo et al., 2010) found that oral supplementation with specific probiotic strains reduced the severity of symptoms, bacterial counts in milk, and recurrence rates compared to antibiotics.
However, while these findings are promising, the overall body of evidence is still limited by the relatively small number of high-quality, large-scale studies. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (e.g., Cochrane Reviews, 2022) typically conclude that there is moderate evidence for benefit, but more rigorous research is needed to establish definitive efficacy, optimal strains, dosages, and safety profiles. In summary, the use of probiotics for mastitis is supported by scientific investigation with moderate-quality evidence, justifying cautious optimism and further research.
Other health conditions supported by Probiotics
Abdominal PainAcid Indigestion
Acne
Allergies (food)
Allergies (respiratory)
Antibiotics (side effects of)
Anxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Appetite (deficient)
Autism
Bladder Infection
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)
Colitis
Constipation (adults)
Constipation (children)
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Diverticulitis
Eczema
Endurance (lack of)
Enteritis
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gas and Bloating
Gastritis
Giardia
Gingivitis
Indigestion
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Lactose Intolerance
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Mastitis