As we age, the microflora of the gut changes, including a reduction in the numbers of good bacteria and an increase in the numbers of potentially pathogenic ("bad") bacteria. The prevalence of gastric and duodenal ulcers, for example, increases over the age of 60. Also, our ability to fully digest food and eliminate waste is often reduced with age, and certain medications are likely to increase the occurrence of constipation, causing additional GI issues for those over 50. A growing body of research is showing that when the elderly supplement with some species and strains of probiotics, they’re seeing positive effects. For this reason, researchers have identified the importance of microbiota-based interventions (such as probiotic supplements) for healthy aging.