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BMC Gastroenterology
Published in: BMC Gastroenterology 1/2013

Open Access 01-12-2013 | Correspondence

An analysis of online messages about probiotics

Authors: Margaret A Brinich, Mary Beth Mercer, Richard R Sharp

Published in: BMC Gastroenterology | Issue 1/2013

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Abstract

Internet websites are a resource for patients seeking information about probiotics. We examined a sample of 71 websites presenting probiotic information. We found that descriptions of benefits far outnumbered descriptions of risks and commercial websites presented significantly fewer risks than noncommercial websites. The bias towards the presentation of therapeutic benefits in online content suggests that patients are likely interested in using probiotics and may have unrealistic expectations for therapeutic benefit. Gastroenterologists may find it useful to initiate conversations about probiotics within the context of a comprehensive health management plan and should seek to establish realistic therapeutic expectations with their patients.
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Metadata
Title
An analysis of online messages about probiotics
Authors
Margaret A Brinich
Mary Beth Mercer
Richard R Sharp
Publication date
01-12-2013
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
BMC Gastroenterology / Issue 1/2013
Electronic ISSN: 1471-230X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-230X-13-5

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