When considering the use of probiotics within your clinical practice, you’ll likely be familiar with evidence for their benefits in lower gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and constipation. In contrast, their use in upper gastrointestinal (GI) conditions is
less frequently discussed. However, evidence suggests a potential therapeutic role for probiotics in various upper GI disorders. This article will look at the current evidence for probiotic use in three common upper GI conditions: gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), functional dyspepsia, and Helicobacter pylori infection.
Learning Objectives
1. Recognise the key differences between common upper gastrointestinal disorders
2. Identify key studies investigating probiotic use in upper gastrointestinal disorders
3. Understand the strength of evidence supporting probiotics in the management of upper gastrointestinal disorders
