Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

The use of bacteria, specifically in the form of probiotics, to support or treat asthma has a foundation in scientific research, although the evidence is moderate and not yet definitive. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory airway disease, and growing evidence suggests that the composition of the gut and airway microbiota can influence immune system development and function, potentially impacting asthma risk and severity. Several studies have investigated whether administering certain bacterial strains (probiotics such as Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium) can help modulate immune responses and reduce asthma symptoms, particularly in children.

Systematic reviews and meta-analyses (e.g., by the Cochrane Collaboration and other groups) indicate that while some small studies have shown improvements in asthma symptoms or reductions in risk when specific probiotics are given, the overall quality of evidence is mixed and the benefit appears to be modest at best. The most consistent findings suggest that probiotics may help prevent the development of asthma or wheezing in children, especially when administered early in life. However, there is insufficient evidence to recommend probiotics as a primary treatment for established asthma.

In summary, bacterial supplementation via probiotics is supported by a moderate scientific rationale and some early evidence, but large, high-quality clinical trials are needed to better establish efficacy and determine the most effective strains and protocols.

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