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When Can Probiotics Help?
Evidence on the benefits of probiotics is building, and much of it is positive. Studies suggest that these natural remedies, which contain beneficial microbes, may help prevent or treat some digestive problems. They may also help regulate the immune system. They may even protect against common respiratory infections.
Probiotics come in many forms, including foods such as yogurt, capsules, powders, and liquids. The various foods and supplements contain one or more of dozens of different probiotic organisms. Each is thought to have its own benefits.
Water: A Fluid Way to Manage Constipation
Are you seeking natural ways to relieve chronic constipation, but are too embarrassed to ask your doctor? Chronic constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal ailments in the U.S. While millions of Americans self-medicate by using over-the-counter laxatives, perhaps the simplest ways to manage chronic constipation is to drink plenty of fluids daily, eat dietary fiber, and exercise. Below are the answers to some common questions about chronic constipation, and how fluids can help...
Read the Water: A Fluid Way to Manage Constipation article > >
So which probiotics may be right for your needs? Specific probiotic organisms appear to be effective for particular illnesses, so choosing the right kind is crucial. Many questions remain about the best way to take these remedies. But researchers say there is enough evidence to offer some guidance. Here are their recommendations.
Benefits of Probiotics for Infectious Diarrhea
The most convincing evidence for probiotics comes from studies of infectious diarrhea. In 2008, an expert panel at Yale University reviewed available evidence and gave an “A” grade to probiotics for the treatment of childhood and adult infectious diarrhea.
“If you start children with infectious diarrhea on probiotics, you can shorten the length of the illness by 24 to 30 hours,” says Martin Floch, MD, a gastroenterologist at Yale University School of Medicine and consultant for the Dannon Company, who led the panel. “That may not seem like a lot. But if a child is suffering from severe diarrhea, it’s significant.”
Probiotics appear to be less effective at preventing infectious diarrhea, researchers say, although the evidence remains preliminary.
Organisms that may be helpful: Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus GG, and Lactobacillus reuteri
Probiotics to Prevent Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
As many as two in five children develop diarrhea after taking oral antibiotics. Many adults also develop diarrhea related to taking antibiotics. The reason: Because these powerful drugs target bacteria in general, they can disrupt populations of beneficial microbes.
Findings from several investigations show that probiotics taken before a course of antibiotics may help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Organisms that may be helpful: Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus GG, combination of Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus
Fighting the Risk of Pouchitis
Pouchitis is an inflammation that can occur after bowel surgery for severe ulcerative colitis. During the surgery, most of the colon is removed and a small pouch is created. Studies show that probiotics can prevent pouchitis. They appear to be less effective at treating pouchitis once it occurs, however.
Organisms that may be helpful: A combination of eight bacterial strains referred to as VSL#3, which includes Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve,Bifidobacterium infantis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, andLactobacillus bulgaricus
Preventing Eczema
Atopic eczema is an allergic reaction of the skin that affects many infants and children. The Yale University review panel gave an “A” grade to findings showing that probiotics can be effective for preventing or treating atopic eczema related to cow’s milk allergy.
Organisms that may be helpful: Lactobacillus GG, Bifidobacterium lactis
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