STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Streptococcus thermophilus (S. thermophilus) is a type of probiotic ("good" bacteria) found in the digestive tract. It produces lactic acid in the gut.

"Good" bacteria such as S. thermophilus can help break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases. S. thermophilus is commonly used to produce fermented dairy foods such as yogurt. It is also used in probiotic supplements.

People use S. thermophilus for diarrhea, constipation, colic, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using S. thermophilus for COVID-19.

Don't confuse S. thermophilus with other probiotics, or with fermented food products such as fermented milk, kefir, or yogurt. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

We currently have no information for STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS overview.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: S. thermophilus is likely safe. It's been used safely alone and together with other probiotics for up to one year. It's usually well-tolerated.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: S. thermophilus is likely safe. It's been used safely alone and together with other probiotics for up to one year. It's usually well-tolerated.

Pregnancy: S. thermophilus is possibly safe when taken by mouth appropriately during pregnancy. It's been used safely together with other probiotics for 8 weeks, starting at 24-28 weeks of pregnancy.

Breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if S. thermophilus is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: S. thermophilus is possibly safe when taken by mouth appropriately in most children. It's been used safely for up to one year. However, there isn't enough reliable information to know if S. thermophilus is safe for very small premature infants.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS overview.

Dosing

S. thermophilus has most often been used along with other probiotics by adults and children. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what type of product and dose might be best for a specific condition.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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