PROBIOTIC CONSUMPTION PATTERNS AND AWARENESS ABOUT BENEFICIAL AND HARMFUL HEALTH EFFECTS AMONG BIOMEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

Probiotic supplements are widely recognized for their potential health benefits, yet their adverse effects are often overlooked. Recent evidence highlights several health risks associated with probiotics, underscoring the need for greater awareness and careful use. This study aimed to analyze patterns of probiotic supplement consumption among biomedical students and assess their awareness of both beneficial and harmful health effects. The study was conducted from February to September 2025, focusing on students’ knowledge of probiotic-rich foods and microorganism species, motivations for supplement use, duration of consumption, attitudes toward safety and compatibility, experienced effects, and knowledge of contraindications. Findings indicate a general lack of knowledge among students regarding probiotic-containing foods and the composition of probiotic supplements, with most able to identify only the most common foods and strains. The primary motivation for supplementation was antibiotic use, particularly for managing diarrhea, followed by poor digestion and constipation. More than half of respondents reported using probiotics only once, with typical use lasting approximately two weeks. Most participants obtained probiotics based on medical advice, predominantly from pharmacies. Positive effects, including improved digestion, bowel function, immunity, and skin condition, were commonly reported, whereas adverse effects—primarily bloating and flatulence—were reported by one-third of participants. Awareness of serious adverse effects and contraindications was limited; only a minority recognized risks associated with immunocompromised individuals, premature neonates, or other vulnerable populations. These results highlight significant gaps in knowledge regarding both the benefits and risks of probiotics among biomedical students, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions to promote safe and informed use of probiotic supplements.