The Immune-Boosting Effects of Probiotics: A comprehensive systematic review

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when given in sufficient quantities, benefit the host's health, especially by supporting the equilibrium of the gut microbiota. These good bacteria are essential for boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the integrity of the gut barrier. Recent studies reveal the gut microbiome’s role in systemic inflammation. Probiotics, beneficial microorganisms, enhance immune health by strengthening gut barriers, modulating cytokine activity, and supporting immune responses. This review assesses probiotic efficacy in inflammatory diseases, highlighting mechanisms, strain-specific effects, and research gaps. This study highlighted the benefits of probiotics across various diseases. In respiratory infections, probiotics like Bifidobacterium lactis enhanced immune responses and shortened recovery times. For gastrointestinal issues, Bacillus strains alleviated symptoms in dyspepsia and ulcerative colitis, with improved remission and immune profiles. Dermatological benefits included reduced inflammation and improved skin in atopic dermatitis. Metabolic disorders saw improved glycemic control and reduced oxidative stress, particularly in diabetes and NASH. Probiotics also positively influenced mental health in cardiovascular disease and inflammatory markers in kidney disease. Neurologically, probiotics reduced migraine symptoms, while in infectious diseases, Lactobacillus fermentum enhanced healing in lactational abscesses. Cancer treatments benefitted from reduced inflammation and oral mucositis severity. Probiotics show promise in managing various diseases by enhancing immune function, reducing inflammation, and supporting microbiome balance, offering complementary therapeutic benefits for respiratory, gastrointestinal, metabolic, dermatological, and neurological conditions.Keywords: Probiotics; Immune response; Gut-lung axis; Gastrointestinal health; Anti-inflammatory effects