The Pros and Cons of Probiotics on Digestion

By Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando

There’s a lot of chatter about the benefits of probiotics for digestion and gut health. They are proven to help manage common chronic conditions, including Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and high cholesterol, and some even claim they can assist with weight loss. However, probiotics are not for everyone, and their effectiveness can vary. Let’s dive into some general guidelines about probiotics, their potential benefits, a few risk factors, and how these supplements should be taken.

Probiotic basics

Probiotics are tiny microorganisms that can deliver a host of health benefits. They are good bacteria that you want in your digestive system. Probiotics support healthy body systems from our mouths to our guts and help control other harmful microorganisms. At the proper levels, these good bacteria can improve digestion and allow the body absorb essential nutrients. Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, probiotics are known to reduce symptoms for several digestive diseases, including Crohn’s Disease, IBS, and ulcerative colitis.

How does this work?

The research on probiotics has been scarce, so scientists are still figuring out exactly how these bacteria work and how patients can best supplement them in their diets. Here’s what we do know:

They lower pH levels: Probiotics are known to lower pH levels in the colon, helping move waste through quicker and relieve conditions like constipation.

They replenish good bacteria: Common digestive issues like diarrhea are often associated with harmful toxins and bacteria. Probiotics help to replenish good bacteria, relieving symptoms faster.

They can help absorb protein: Probiotics can help the body better absorb protein and other vitamins and nutrients essential to our health and well-being.

A Probiotic Diet

To start seeing the benefits of probiotics, it’s recommended that patients increase their daily consumption of them naturally in their diet. Many foods naturally contain these good bacteria, including:

● Sauerkraut

● Kimchi

● Greek Yogurt

● Kombucha

Ease into adding these to your diet slowly, paying attention to any side effects — both positive and negative. A food journal is a great tool to help with this.

What if I’m ready to add a pill supplement?

Probiotics are safe for most people, but their overall benefits vary, and no supplement is created equal. In particular, probiotics in their pill form can have difficulty standing up to stomach acids, making it difficult for them to even make it to the lower intestine, where they absorb nutrients.

Start slowly

Start with a small daily dose and slowly increase it while paying attention to how your body responds. Probiotic supplements are generally dosed in colony-forming units (CFUs). Patients can start with 1 CFU and gradually increase their dosage over time.

Meal times are essential.

Probiotics should always be taken just before eating or with your meal. If taken afterward, their benefits will be lost, and the risk for side effects, including nausea, can increase.

Pay attention to labels and seek out professional advice.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not currently regulate these supplements, so quality is not guaranteed. It’s essential to read labels closely and seek out a trustworthy brand. While probiotics are generally considered safe, consulting with a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen is advisable. The effectiveness of probiotics can vary based on the specific strains and a person’s overall health, so tailored advice from a healthcare provider ensures optimal choices.

Probiotics can significantly benefit individuals with specific health conditions, including gastrointestinal issues and compromised immune systems. Whether through natural foods or supplements, the decision to take them should be made carefully and with the help of a patient’s healthcare provider.

For more on gut health, contact Gastroenterology of Greater Orlando. We are a cutting-edge clinical gastroenterology practice that sets the standard in digestive health care.