Probiotics are living microorganisms that, when added to foods or dietary supplements in sufficient numbers have been proven beneficial in more ways than one.

In two separate animal studies conducted by scientists from the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) (the U.S. Department of Agriculture's chief scientific research agency) found the supplementation of probiotics stimulates the immune system and improve nutrient absorption.

The probiotic was found to induce innate immune activity in the colon where the probiotic was in highest concentration.

...Preliminary results show better response to the infection--and improved nutrient absorption--in the group of pigs that were supplemented with the probiotic treatment prior to the infection."

Find more details from the press release.

[In photo: In tests to evaluate the effect of beneficial bacteria on the immune system, microbiologist Gloria Solano-Aguilar administers a probiotic treatment to a young pig. (Photo by Peggy Greb)]