Impact of Fermented Milk On Gut Microbiota And Human Health: A Comprehensive Review

• Published in: Current microbiology 2025-01, Vol.82 (3), p.107
• Main Authors: Abd El-Salam, Mohamed H, El-Shibiny, Safinaz, Assem, Fayza Mohamed, El-Sayyad, Gharieb S, Hasanien, Yasmeen A, Elfadil, Dounia, Soliman, Tarek Nour
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Animals; Bacteria - classification; Bacteria - genetics; Bacteria - metabolism; Breast milk; Cultured Milk Products - microbiology; Digestive system; Fermentation; Fermented milk products; Gastrointestinal Microbiome - drug effects; Gastrointestinal system; Gastrointestinal tract; Gastrointestinal Tract - microbiology; Humans; Intestinal microflora; Kefir; Microbiota; Microorganisms; Milk; Milk - microbiology; Milk products; Probiotics
• ISSN: 0343-8651; 1432-0991; 1432-0991
• DOI: 10.1007/s00284-025-04061-z

The beneficial impact of gut microbiota on human health has encouraged studies on factors modulating it. Among the different factors, diet plays a vital role in this area. Many studies on animals and humans have been concerned with the effects of fermented milk products on gut microbiota and how they relate to health benefits. Yoghurt, kefir, Koumiss, and fermented kinds of milk made using different probiotic strains were tested for their capability to modulate gut microbiota. It is apparent that the microflora present in fermented milk, specifically probiotics, are capable of enduring the gastrointestinal tract's adverse conditions primarily through transit microorganisms. Meanwhile, they can alter the gut microbiota in several ways that benefit human health. The present article gives a comprehensive overview of the modulation of gut microbiota by consumption of fermented milk, particularly those containing probiotics, and their impact on human health.