A new type of probiotic – specifically designed for use during antibiotic treatment – has hit the market. But with often higher prices, the question arises: are they really worth using?
Antibiotics are the standard treatment for many bacterial infections, from pneumonia to meningitis. However, they can have a significant impact on the digestive system, with about a third of users experiencing diarrhea.
This is because antibiotics are broad-spectrum medications – they not only kill the bacteria that cause the infection, but also the beneficial bacteria in the gut. As a result, the balance of the microbiome is disrupted, creating conditions for the growth of harmful bacteria and causing problems such as abdominal pain or digestive disorders.
In people who take antibiotics for long periods of time, for example for acne or recurrent urinary tract infections, this imbalance can last for years. Some experts warn that it may also be linked to more serious problems, such as type 2 diabetes or inflammatory diseases like asthma.
For this reason, more and more doctors are recommending the use of probiotics during or after a course of antibiotics, to restore the "good" bacteria in the gut.
However, studies are not entirely in agreement. A 2021 analysis of 36 studies showed that a common strain of probiotic, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, may reduce the occurrence and duration of diarrhea and bloating.
On the other hand, a 2018 study suggested that taking probiotics after antibiotics may delay the microbiome's return to normal. In that study, participants took up to six months to return to balance, compared to just three weeks for those who didn't take probiotics.
The possible explanation is that probiotics may add types of bacteria that are not naturally part of the individual's microbiome, preventing the restoration of the original balance.
However, experts emphasize that this study was small and does not provide definitive conclusions. Other studies suggest that certain probiotics may help the microbiome recover more quickly.
Experts agree on one thing: if they are used, timing is very important. Probiotics should not be taken at the same time as antibiotics, as the latter can destroy beneficial bacteria. It is recommended to take them in the interval between doses of the antibiotic.
Not all probiotics are created equal. One of the most studied is Lactobacillus rhamnosus, known for its ability to survive stomach acidity and attach to the intestinal wall, helping to restore the microbiome and strengthen the intestinal barrier.
The World Gastroenterology Organization recommends the use of supplements containing this bacterium during antibiotic treatment.
Another beneficial ingredient is Saccharomyces boulardii, a yeast-based probiotic that has been shown to help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea and restore gut health.
In conclusion, probiotics can be beneficial during antibiotic treatment, but the choice of type and method of use are key. And, as often in medicine, the response can vary from one person to another. /GazetaExpress/
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