In addition, probiotics have potential effects on weight, digestion, and neurological disorders; and may support heart health, immune function, and symptoms of low mood and anxiety. Most are bacteria from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families (also known as species). Apart from bacteria, probiotics might also include yeasts such as Saccharomyces boulardii. When using probiotics, you may initially experience mild side effects like diarrhea, constipation, gas, bloating, or abdominal pain.
Some people experience gas and bloating when consuming synbiotics. Those who experience these side effects may want to select a supplement that does not contain prebiotics (40). Keeping a food diary including any headache symptoms you might experience can help clarify whether fermented foods are problematic for you.
The correct identification of strains is extremely important for safety, growth conditions and metabolic properties of a given strain (FAO/WHO 2002). Even if the strain of probiotic bacteria is considered as safe, it still can cause bacteremia (Van den Nieuwboer et al. 2014) as opportunistic bacteria. The vast selection of probiotic products on the market contains a wide range of probiotic bacterial strains. To reap the benefits, you need to choose the right one to address your particular issue or concern.
Probiotic supplements are usually only taken for a specific amount of time—usually days or, at most, weeks. There isn’t any evidence that they are any more helpful if taken every day for long periods of time. They can be expensive, so it’s important to get advice from a healthcare provider on how long to take them. Probiotic supplements may help promote gastrointestinal, mental, immune, cardiovascular and dental health.
While probiotics offer numerous health benefits for many individuals, there are certain groups of people who should exercise caution or avoid taking them altogether. It’s important to note that probiotics are living organisms and may not be suitable for everyone.
The World Gastroenterology Organisation has guidelines for probiotics that address strains and dosages for different health concerns. We recommend finding a third-party tested supplement to ensure the label is accurate and speaking with your health care provider for individualized recommendations. Your intestinal tract is lined with bacteria that form your gut microbiome. Despite bacteria often having a negative connotation, plenty of good bacteria help you fight illness and promote health. Having a diverse microbiome helps promote not just digestive health, but many other aspects of health. In addition to containing powerful probiotics, some supplements also contain prebiotics.
Many Americans report taking dietary supplements, which are not regulated. Do you really need 200 percent of the full daily value of vitamin C supplemented if you’re healthy? Few clinical trials exist to give these kinds of specific answers. A large study published in 2023 derived from the COSMOS database found that people taking a multivitamin for a year performed better on an immediate word recall test. In this test, participants read 20 unique unrelated words several times in a row, then were asked to read a new list of 20 words as a distraction, before being asked to recall as many words as possible from the first list.
Some probiotics work better with food, and others on an empty stomach. Stop taking supplements immediately if you develop a rash or any other symptoms beyond mild, temporary gastrointestinal issues. You may want to try a different bacterial strain, but only do so under the supervision of a healthcare provider who knows your medical history. Probiotics are beneficial microbes (or yeasts) found in fermented foods or in dietary supplements.
Patients with compromised immune systems
Patients with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or organ transplant recipients, should avoid probiotics. Since their immune systems are weakened, introducing live bacteria into their bodies can pose a risk of infection and other complications.
Individuals with SIBO
People suffering from Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) should also steer clear of probiotics. The added bacteria can exacerbate the condition and lead to uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain.
Allergic reactions
Individuals who have a history of allergic reactions to dairy or other ingredients commonly found in probiotic supplements should avoid them. Allergic reactions can range from mild discomfort to severe anaphylaxis, so it’s crucial to check the labels and consult with a healthcare professional before trying probiotics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while probiotics are generally safe for most people, there are specific groups who should avoid them due to potential risks or complications. If you fall into any of these categories, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider before incorporating probiotics into your daily routine.
