Table 1 Coding categories used to analyze the content of 71 Internet websites on probiotics
Content Domain | Research Question |
|---|---|
Framework | How are probiotics being defined for the reader? |
Mechanism of Action | By which biologic mechanisms do probiotics function within the body? |
Product | What products are mentioned and how much detail is given about their contents? |
Regulation | How is the regulatory status of probiotics described (if at all)? |
Benefits | What benefits are attributed to using probiotics? |
Risks | What risks are attributed to using probiotics? |
Research | What research about probiotics is described (if any)? |
References | What types of materials are cited (if any)? |
Tone | Is there a clear recommendation for or against probiotic use? How is this conveyed? |
Accessibility | In what ways is the website connected to additional information and probiotic products? |
Website Characteristics | Describe the structure and functionality of the website itself. |
Sandvik Scale | A 7-item instrument used to rate the overall quality of a website. |