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After its discovery by Henri Boulard, Saccharomyces ,boulardii initially was developed in Europe to improve gastrointestinal resistance to assault by pathogenic organisms. Indeed, it is perhaps the most thoroughly researched of all probiotic products available as supplements.
We find the use, for instance, of "Saccharomyces boulardii in Maintenance treatment of Crohn's disease" (Dig Dis Sci. 2000 Jul;45(7):1462-4). Similarly, "A pilot trial o f Saccharomyces boulardii in ulcerative colitis" (Euro J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2003 Jun:15(6):697- 1) demonstrated remarkable benefits in 17 of 24
subjects who completed the trial.
Nevertheless, this yeast species is essentially a food yeast that can be and is used in fermentation. It is another probiotic found naturally in the environment, but which can be concentrated and added directly to the diet for additional benefits. Today this "friendly" yeast is used around the world to promote gastrointestinal health. It is a temporary resident in the gut that is easily displaced by probiotic bacteria, yet can be utilized to help restore and promote normal microflora, including after use of antibiotics. |
