Probiotic drinks ‘may not boost health’

Evidence is lacking to prove that probiotic drinks have any benefit to a person's health, a food watchdog has said.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published a report relating to 808 health claims from food companies, assessing the evidence behind them.

Products from firms such as Danone and Yakult claim to aid digestion and so could attract those trying to lose weight and keep it off.

However, the EFSA's independent panel of scientists found that the claims were so general as to be inadmissible, or could not be proven.

In a statement, Yakult expressed its disappointment in relation to the ruling.

"The company wishes to discuss the evaluation process, scientific criteria and this outcome with EFSA," it added.

Earlier this month, Helen Heap, nutritional therapist at the Dr Marilyn Glenville Clinic, said that people can stimulate their digestion throughout the day by leaving their offices and going for short walks.

Have you got any tips for improving digestion?