Probiotics – is it a serious medicine or naturopathic quackery?
Probiotics are microorganisms – bacteria (bugs) that promote health in the human body.
What do they do?
- Produce some vitamins that are important for the healthy functioning of the body. Lack of those particular vitamins may cause depression, anxiety and many other health problems.
- Support immunity against infections – fight (and, actually, sometimes, EAT other bugs – the process is called macrophage).
- Help to digest some food items.
Where those ‘good guys’ – probiotics are found in the body?
Probiotics are found everywhere – in the gut, on the skin, on sexual organs, in the mouth, etc.
What are they called?
There are many probiotics that help us (humans) live healthy lives. The main probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Why do I need to know about the probiotics?
Every time we experience excessive stress, consume too much alcohol or take antibiotics, the probiotics in our body diminish.
Where do I get the probiotics from?
Probiotics are readily available and affordable at the chemist shops. There is no proof that some expensive ‘exclusive’ probiotics work better than average ones from the chemist’s shop.
How do I make sure I have enough probiotics?
Probiotics are killed by stress, alcohol and antibiotics. There are other, less common reasons as well.
What do I do if I think that I do not have enough probiotics in my gut?
There are some digestive analysis and gut microflora tests available. However, the tests should be done in severe cases under the guidance of a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can support the balance of bacteria in the gut. Many people take them to improve digestion and general wellbeing.
Are probiotics considered real medicine?
Some probiotics have clinical evidence behind them. Others do not. The benefit depends on the specific strain, the dose, and the condition being treated.
Do all probiotic products work the same way?
No. Different strains have different effects. A product with one strain will not work the same way as a product with another.
Can probiotics help with gut issues?
Probiotics may help with some conditions such as antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, irritable bowel symptoms, and mild digestive upset. The evidence varies by strain.
Are probiotics safe to take?
Most healthy people can take probiotics safely. People with immune problems or chronic illness should speak to a doctor first.
Can probiotics replace medical treatment?
No. Probiotics can support gut health, but they do not replace medical care, prescription medicines, or proper assessment by a GP.
Why do some doctors recommend probiotics while others do not?
Doctors base their advice on evidence. Some strains have good research, and others have little or none. This leads to different opinions in clinical practice.
Are probiotics just naturopathic marketing?
Some products are marketed with claims that are not supported by evidence. Others have solid research. The key is to choose products with proven strains.