Using Probiotics for Diarrhea
Millions of friendly bacteria reside in our intestines. They’re essential to digestion. A bout of diarrhea can be linked to upset in the normal balance of these useful organisms. Probiotics, which consist of beneficial microbes, may help treat some kinds of diarrhea, studies suggest.
One of the most familiar forms of probiotics is yogurt. Bacteria introduced into milk create yogurt. The same bacteria may help keep intestines healthy. But there are dozens of different strains of bacteria and yeast that may have health benefits.
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Only certain strains appear to help diarrhea. And only certain types of diarrhea appear to respond to probiotics. So which ones may help? Before you stock your refrigerator and cupboards with probiotics, here is some information about the best ways to use them for various forms of diarrhea.
Probiotics for Childhood Infectious Diarrhea
Some of the best evidence we have on the benefits of probiotics comes from studies of diarrhea in children, especially infectious diarrhea caused by rotavirus. In a 2000 study that included 287 children hospitalized for diarrhea, for example, one group received oral rehydration solution with probiotics. The others were given only oral rehydration solution. The children given probiotics recovered more quickly and were able to leave the hospital earlier.
According to experts, evidence suggests that probiotics can reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea by half a day to about two days.
Not all probiotic organisms are effective for childhood infectious diarrhea, however. Experts say the most convincing evidence for their benefits comes from studies of Lactobacillus GG, Lactobacilllus reuteri, and Saccharomyces boulardii. Combinations of several probiotic organisms may also help treat this type of diarrhea.
Probiotic Benefits for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
By suppressing friendly bacteria, antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance in the intestines, leading to diarrhea. Diarrhea is a common side effect in 10% to 30% of people taking antibiotics.
Recent studies of both children and adults have shown that probiotics taken before and during antibiotic treatment can lower the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Many different organisms have been studied. But based on a 2006 analysis of several studies, the two that appear to be most effective are Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus GG.
Probiotics May Help Prevent Travelers’ Diarrhea
Diarrhea caused by contaminated food or water is a frequent bane for travelers. Up to 10% of people who get diarrhea while travelling end up developing persistent diarrhea. And in some cases, it can lead to irritable bowel syndrome.
Probiotics appear to help prevent travelers’ diarrhea. A 2007 report that looked at data from 12 studies concluded that probiotics significantly lowered the risk of travelers’ diarrhea. The strongest evidence pointed to benefits from S. boulardii, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacteria bifidum.
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