Probiotics

Probiotics is a general term for living micro-organisms - usually known as “friendly” bacteria - that have health benefits in the body. Many are similar to organisms that are naturally found in the body, especially in the digestive tract. Probiotics have become popular supplements and food additives, most often used to promote healthy digestion.

Probiotics uses

Probiotics work by balancing the levels of micro-organisms in the intestines; they drive down the numbers of harmful bacteria. Some studies suggest they also seem to boost the body’s immune system but this is not fully understood and more study is needed.

Although research is ongoing, there’s good evidence that some probiotics may be helpful in treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). For example, a 2004 study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found a IBS symptoms "significantly reduced" in a group of subjects who received probiotics.  Other studies suggest probiotics may be helpful in the treatment of some types of diarrhoea, colitis, acne and eczema in children. They may also be used with antibiotics to help prevent diarrhoea that may come with taking antibiotics.

In addition, researchers are studying probiotics to determine if they may help infections (including urinary tract, vaginal, GI, sinus and respiratory), dental disease, allergies, and diseases of the liver and pancreas. They are also testing probiotics to see if they can help prevent the recurrence of colon and bladder cancer. However, more research is needed to determine if probiotics are safe and effective for any of these conditions.

Remember that there are many types of probiotics. They include Lactobacilli (like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus GG), Bifidobacteria (like Bifidobacterium bifidus) and some yeasts (like Saccharomyces boulardii). Different probiotics have different effects; while one may help treat diarrhoea or a vaginal infection, another will have no effect. Before you start taking a probiotic supplement, talk to your talk to your GP, pharmacist or dietitian.

Probiotics are different from prebiotics. Prebiotics are non-digestible ingredients in foods that are used to stimulate the growth of probiotic bacteria in the body. Synbiotics are combinations of prebiotics with probiotics.

Probiotics dosage and instructions for use

Because there are so many different probiotic organisms, there is no set dosage. Ask your GP, pharmacist or dietitian for advice. Some probiotics are dosed by the number of live organisms they contain. For instance, a typical dosage of lactobacillus acidophilus ranges between 1 billion to 10 billion live organisms split into three or four doses.

Probiotics food sources

Probiotics occur naturally in some foods and are added to others. Examples are yoghurt, milk, sauerkraut, tempeh, miso, soya drinks and other beverages.

Probiotics supplement information

Probiotics come in many forms - as capsules, tablets, suppositories, powders, drinks and food additives. Like any supplement, keep probiotics in a cool, dry place, away from humidity and direct sunlight.

Probiotics warnings

• Side effects. Probiotics seem to have few side effects. Some may cause intestinal gas and bloating. However, this is likely to get better over time.
• Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your GP before you start using probiotics because they could interact with medicines such as antibiotics or immunosuppressive drugs.
• Risks. If you have intestinal disease or damage, HIV, cancer, a weakened immune system or excessive bacteria in your intestines, don’t use probiotics without first checking with your GP.