Understanding Probiotic Use and Safety Considerations

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that are considered good microorganisms for the body. They are the primary source of the microbiome. They mainly benefit the digestive and intestinal systems. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, some cereals, and fermented foods. Probiotics help to fight the bad bacteria in the body as well as to establish a healthy body balance.

The body does not necessarily depend on supplements and foods which contain probiotics to remain healthy. However, the presence of those foods and supplements significantly helps in maintaining good bacteria in the gut and intestines.

The following are ways in which probiotics help to keep your body healthy:

Probiotics are found naturally in the intestines. The family of microorganisms inside the body includes yeast in the form of Saccharomyces boulardii and bacteria in the form of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Outside the body, Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most common bacteria found in yogurt.

These are the dietary supplements found in the form of tablets, powder, liquid, and capsules, each containing a specific type of probiotic. These supplements are available in vitamin shops, health stores, and other outlets. The most commonly known supplement is acidophilus which is readily available via most supplement manufacturers.

Probiotics are also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, acid reflux, infectious diarrhea (shortens the duration), colorectal and bladder cancer (reduces the recurrence) and spastic colon.

Yogurt is one of the most common foods to combat diarrhea, which is a typical side effect with those who use antibiotics. Yogurt also helps to subdue vaginal yeast and urinary tract infections, a condition common in women.

Probiotics, just like any other supplement, can occasionally trigger some allergic reactions such as diarrhea, flatulence (passing gas), bloating, and a mildly upset stomach. Any of these symptoms may (or may not) be felt within the first few days. Taking into consideration that probiotics exist naturally in the body, probiotic supplements and foods are ultimately considered safe to use.

It is worth noting that dietary supplements, unlike medications, do not need approval from the FDA. This gives manufacturers the freedom to sell their supplements on a simple claim of "safety" and "effectiveness."

The following are the most common side effects of probiotics and how to reduce them.

While not everybody may experience any notable side effects, the most reported complaints with bacteria-based probiotics are temporary boating and increased gas. Those who take yeast-based probiotics also experience increased thirst and constipation. The reason why some people experience these side effects is still unknown, but they quickly vanish after a few weeks of consistent use.

In a bid to reduce the side effects, it is advisable to start using probiotics moderately and then increase to full dosage after some time (at least a week) to give the body enough time to adjust. If the symptoms persist, consult a medical professional.

Biogenic amines are the substances that usually form when foods that contain proteins ferment or age, due to bacteria. Most probiotic-rich foods such as Sauerkraut, Kimchi, and Yogurt contain biogenic amines. The most common amines found in these probiotic foods are: tyramine, tryptamine, histamine, and phenylethylamine.

Amines affect the central nervous system and may trigger headaches, and increase and decrease blood flow to those who are sensitive to this substance. Research is still ongoing as to whether amines trigger headaches or migraines.

Such symptoms can be better understood and tracked by keeping a diary on the frequency of headaches you have experienced each time you consume fermented foods.

Probiotics may not suit everyone, but for the majority of people, probiotics are safe. In rare cases, bacteria or yeast may appear in the bloodstream, which may cause an infection. Those most likely affected would be patients with suppressed immune systems, with venous catheters, with prolonged hospitalization, and those who have undergone recent surgery.

The risk of infection is low, but antibiotics will reduce the possibility of any infection.

It is always advisable to talk to a nondrug natural oriented health professional before you embark on taking any supplement or a pediatrician if you plan to give supplements to children.

Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding before taking supplements.

It is not advisable to take supplements with other prescribed medicines as the supplement may hinder the efficacy of the medication, and vice-versa.

Editor's Note: When taking supplements in conjunction with medication, another option is to take them either 1/2 hour before or 1/2 hour after ingesting the medication.