The invention provides a bacterial composition which comprises from 10.sup.4 to 10.sup.12 cfu/g of Pediococcus pentosaceus cells which have the ability to induce the production of interleukin-10 to reduce inflammation in the intestinal tract among other features. Thus, the bacterial composition is useful in the amelioration of excessive crying in infants. Particularly, Pediococcus pentosaceus cells are from the strain deposited as CECT 8330. The bacterial composition can be in the form of a food supplement, a medicament, an infant formula, an edible product and a food product. Particularly, the composition is in the form of an infant food supplement in the form of oily suspension.

Described herein are methods and compositions for using microbial agents (probiotics) and agents that promote growth of certain microbes (prebiotics) for management (including prevention and treatment) of musculoskeletal disorders, including osteoporosis, osteopenia, Paget's disease, stunting, osteoarthritis, osteomyelitis, and delayed or non-union fractures.