Daily probiotics may make workers less likely to take days off with colds and gastroenteritis, a small Swedish study suggests today.

Of 94 workers who took a daily dose of Lactobacillus reuteri over 80 days, 10 took sick days, compared with 23 of the 87 who took a placebo. The differences were most marked among shift workers.

The study, involving the Tetra Pak company and probiotic manufacturer BioGaia, is reported in the journal Environmental Health. Probiotics, aimed at changing the microflora in people's guts, are increasingly being promoted in drinks and yoghurts.