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Defining Probiotics
Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. They must be alive and delivered in a way that allows them to impact various areas, not just the gut, including the mouth, skin, and urogenital tract. The term 'adequate amounts' is crucial, as the optimal dosage can vary; for instance, one does not necessarily require 25 billion microorganisms if one billion suffices. Validating health benefits necessitates rigorous scientific studies comparing probiotics against placebos or other treatments, a practice that many companies neglect. Therefore, a genuine probiotic must demonstrate proven efficacy through controlled human studies, necessitating a clear understanding of the specific organism's impact.