Role of probiotics in respiratory tract diseases with special reference to COVID-19: A review

Abstract

According to the International Scientific Association in association with Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations(UN) and World Health Organization (WHO), “administration of probiotics” means administration and ingestion of live microorganisms in an appropriate amount for developing good health condition in the host individual. Probiotics are administered for building immunity against common respiratory tract  infections, including cough, pharyngitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, and asthma. Therefore, vaccinations have been introduced to safeguard the children and the elderly from such infections. General patients improve their health when they consume appropriate amounts live microorganisms (probiotics) such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that belong to lactic acid bacteria family. Fermented foods, such as yogurt and soy, and dietary supplements are known to be rich sources of microorganisms. However, the consumption of microorganisms causes gastrointestinal symptoms as common side effects. Limited studies provide relevant information about the probiotics’ consumption; therefore, the current study aimed to increase the probiotics consumption among individuals and avoid common infections.