Recent survey results on supplement usage are worth a look. In more than 10,000 users of dietary supplements, use of calcium, vitamin C and even fish oil, the most popular supplement, decreased. Probiotics usage increased in men, numbers which brought them more even with women.
The authors of this study at ConsumerLab.com had this posted about the results:
“The changes in supplement use seem to reflect research findings that made headlines this past year, as well as a shift in promotional emphasis for some of these supplements,” … “In the past, probiotics were marketed mainly to women and for irritable bowel syndrome, but are now finding a wider audience due to expanded treatment applications, including antibiotic-related diarrhea, diverticular disease and even anxiety…”
The results may say more about the relationship of media and marketing to sales than the inherent value of each of these supplements. Next year, the numbers may be reversed.
But we all know that scientists will continue to glean the best possible information for all in the probiotics field. While patience is urged for all involved, it is admittedly, an exciting time for probiotic discovery.