Swine flu posts two days in a row? Sorry guys, but I just thought you may be interested in a new study that is shedding light on probiotics' role in fighting off the flu--be it the regular seasonal variety or H1N1...

Yesterday we talked about the crazy swine flu hysteria in England, and I asked you if you were worried about H1N1 yourself. Most of you are feeling pretty chill about it--interesting.

As the news on the new flu is emerging--and as we're learning about if and when it will return this fall, and how serious it will be--I thought I'd tell you about a new study in light of all of this.

New research suggests that probiotics--you know, the good-for-you "friendly" bacteria found in yogurt and kefir and other supplements that are good for your immune system--may help you ward off flu viruses, and maybe even H1N1.

Hold on, there's something important to point out before you rush out to the store for more yogurt products (which wouldn't exactly be a bad thing): The study was sponsored by Danisco, a Danish nutritional supplement company that manufactures probiotic products. Just FYI.

Anywho, the researchers, who studied children in China, say that a six-month course of probiotic supplements given twice daily helped to ward off the flu and reduce the duration of sicknesses in preschool aged children.

I think the findings are interesting, but not surprising. I'm already a big believer in probiotics for immune health. But, remember: You don't have to buy expensive supplements or fancy probiotic-spiked beverages (which can be really pricey!). Just eat yogurt (P.S. here are 16 things you can do with yogurt!) or sip kefir--both can give you plenty of the good bacteria you need.

Do you make a point to get probiotics every day?


Photo: iStock