ANALYSIS OF KNOWLEDGE ON PROBIOTICS AMONG ADULTS LIVING IN THE BIAŁA PODLASKA COUNTY (LUBLIN VOIVODSHIP)

Background
Lactic acid bacteria of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera are mainly used as probiotics. Their effect on the human organism is multidirectional, hence they are used both in prevention and treatment of many disease entities. The aim of the study was to analyze the level of knowledge about probiotics among adult residents of the city of Biała Podlaska and Biała Podlaska County (Lublin voivodeship, Poland).

Material and methods
The survey was conducted among 116 adults meeting the criterion of place of residence. An original survey questionnaire was used as a research tool.

Results
The majority of the respondents knew the definition of probiotics; food products which are their source were also correctly indicated. Probiotics were most commonly used during antibiotic therapy, with dietary supplements being the preferred form of probiotic use. The overwhelming majority of the respondents believe that probiotics have a positive impact on the human body, mainly through their effect on intestinal regulation. No one indicated that probiotics could have a negative effect on health. More than half of the respondents also know what prebiotics are and only a few use synbiotics.

Conclusions
The vast majority of the adults participating in the survey use probiotics, know their beneficial effects on the human body, and are familiar with their natural dietary sources. Knowledge of the negative effects of probiotic supplementation and the use of prebiotics and synbiotics is less widespread; therefore, it is important to strive to continuously raise public awareness of these issues by undertaking educational and informational activities.