Table 4 Characterizations of probiotics on 71 Internet websites
| Â | N (%) |
|---|---|
Defined Using Elements of the FAO-WHO Definition* | Â |
 contain all 4 components of FAO-WHO definition | 40 (56) |
 live microorganisms | 63 (89) |
 administered to host | 53 (75) |
 adequate amounts | 42 (59) |
 health benefits | 61 (86) |
Probiotics Function By | Â |
 regulating local immune response | 59 (83) |
 regulating inflammatory response | 26 (37) |
 improving gut’s barrier function | 26 (37) |
 inhibiting pathogenic bacteria colonization | 58 (82) |
 other | 28 (39) |
Indications for Use | Â |
 improve general health | 50 (70) |
 improve GI health | 68 (96) |
Product | Â |
 strain of bacteria noted | 67 (94) |
 general vehicle for consumption noted | 70 (99) |
 specific brand named | 54 (76) |