Probiotics in infancy induce protective immune profiles that are characteristic for chronic low-grade inflammation.

In a randomised double-blind study, probiotic bacteria or placebo were given for 1 month before delivery to mothers and for 6 months to infants with a family history of allergy. Infants receiving probiotic bacteria had higher plasma levels of CRP, total IgA, total IgE, and IL-10 than infants in the placebo group. Increased plasma CRP level at 6 months was associated with a decreased risk of eczema, and with a decreased risk of allergic disease at 2 years, when adjusted with probiotic use. The findings emphasise the role of chronic microbial exposure as an immune modulator protecting from allergy. Clin Exp Allergy. 2008;38(4):611-8.