Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria and yeast) found in the intestines. There are similar probiotics available in some foods and dietary supplements. Probiotics are sometimes called "good" or "healthy" microorganisms. Experts believe that these bacteria help maintain a healthy digestive system by limiting the growth of "bad" or "unhealthy" bacteria.
Path to better health
The use of probiotics is related to digestive health. Although some probiotics have shown promise in research studies, there is still little solid scientific evidence to support the specific use of probiotics to combat health conditions. There is evidence that probiotics can be useful in preventing diarrhea caused by infections and antibiotics. They can also improve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. However, the Food and Drug Administration of the United States (FDA) has not approved any probiotic for the prevention or treatment of health problems.
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Are probiotics safe?
Probiotics are similar to the "good" or "healthy" microorganisms that already live in your digestive system. Medical studies have not shown that probiotics are harmful to healthy people. However, people who are very sick and people who have a weak immune system should be cautious about eating or drinking probiotic products or taking probiotic supplements.
The common side effects of probiotic use may include gas and bloating. Although they are usually mild and temporary, the most serious side effects include allergic reactions to probiotics or to the ingredients in the food or supplement.
You should talk to your GP before you start taking probiotics or any type of dietary supplement. He or she can tell you if a supplement with probiotics will affect any condition you have. Be sure to tell your doctor about any prescription or over-the-counter medications or other dietary supplements you are taking.
How are probiotics available?
Foods and beverages that contain probiotics include the following:
- soy-based drinks
- yogurt
- Acidophilus milk (normal milk enriched with a healthy strain of bacteria)
- buttermilk
- some soft cheeses (for example, Gouda)
- miso (fermented soybean paste)
- tempeh (fermented soy cake)
- kefir (drink made from fermented cow's milk)
- kimchi (spicy fermented vegetables)
- unpasteurized sauerkraut
Look for labels that say "live active cultures" or that include the full name of the bacteria on the nutrition information label. There are many types, or strains, of probiotics available. Most of these are of the variety Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of probiotic found in yogurt and soy products. Probiotics are also available as dietary supplements in capsules, tablets, powders and liquids. A commonly used supplement is acidophilus.
Aspects to consider
Many experts will tell you that the jury is still deliberating about probiotics. In general, consuming foods that contain probiotics is safe for most healthy people. Other people should avoid probiotics. These include people who have a weak immune system, such as people with cancer or those at risk of infection.
Probiotic supplements do not require FDA approval. This means that they are not regulated in the same way as prescription medications. It is not a requirement for supplements to have the same safety tests as regulated medicines.
When to see the doctor
It is not uncommon to feel some gas and swelling when you start eating or taking probiotics. These should disappear in a few days. If they do not, you should contact your doctor. Other side effects are rare, especially if you are healthy. However, if you begin to experience more severe abdominal pain or if you have abnormal bowel movements, you should contact your doctor immediately.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Should I add probiotics to my diet?
- Can I get enough probiotics through food or do I need a probiotic supplement?
- Is it possible to consume too many probiotics in my diet?
- Are probiotic supplements safe?
- Are probiotics safe for my child?