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Probiotics and Postbiotics: Exploring their Role as Antibiotic Alternatives and Health Enhancers

Hijam Chandramani Singh,Hmangte Wendy Kom,Wankupar Wankhar,Surjya Loying,M. Sarma,Rupesh Kumar,Devabrata Saikia

Published 2025 in Journal of Natural Remedies

ABSTRACT

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in sufficient quantities, provide health benefits to the host. Probiotics have become essential components in supporting health and preventing diseases. Notably, Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in enhancing nutrient absorption, strengthening the immune system, and preventing infections. These beneficial microbes play a crucial role in maintaining gut health, detoxifying harmful compounds, and synthesizing essential nutrients like vitamin K, riboflavin, and folate. Probiotics have shown potential in preventing antibiotic-associated complications, managing gastrointestinal disorders, and reducing food intolerances. Furthermore, they have promising applications in agriculture and animal husbandry, reducing antibiotic usages and minimizing the risk of antibiotic resistance. Recently, probiotics-derived from inactive microorganisms and their bioactive compounds- have gained attention as safer and more stable alternatives to live probiotics. They offer similar health benefits, including immunomodulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and antioxidant properties, without the risks associated with live bacterial administration. Recently, postbiotics have emerged as bioactive formulations of inactivated microorganisms or their components, scientifically validated for their health benefits. Postbiotics also provide advantages in food processing, ensuring stability in products where probiotics may not survive. Despite their promising potential, issues like large-scale production, stability of formulation, and precise mechanisms of action remain under active investigation. This review article explores the multi-dimensional benefits of probiotics and postbiotics, focusing on their roles as alternatives to antibiotics, mechanisms of action, and applications in food and medicine. It also explores the challenges inherent in their development and utilization, emphasizing the significance of advancing research and clinical trials to unlock their full potential. Probiotics and postbiotics are promising weapons against antibiotic resistance and sustainable health practices, a natural, effective and innovative solution to many modern healthcare problems. Major Findings: Probiotics have been shown to improve gut health, boost immunity and prevent microbial infections. Recently, postbiotics have emerged as safer alternatives with similar benefits. This short review compares the ways how probiotics and postbiotics reduce antibiotic use and support sustainable life.

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