Side Effects of Probiotics

Probiotics, also referred to as friendly bacteria, are microorganisms used to treat certain diseases and disorders. Majority of the probiotics are bacteria strains that resembles those inhabiting the human gastrointestinal tract. Some people opt for probiotics in order to improve the overall health and wellness. At times, the physician may recommend the use of probiotics along with conventional medications. In such a condition, probiotics are considered as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Doctors usually prescribe probiotics during or after antibiotic treatments, so as to restore the loss of beneficial bacteria. Before discussing the side effects, let's take a brief look at the uses of probiotics.

Therapeutic Uses of Probiotics

Though probiotics had been in use in food and alcohol fermentation since centuries, they were implemented for medicinal purposes only in the 20th century. Probiotics are used for effective treatment of various health problems such as lactose intolerance, candidiasis, skin allergies, food allergies, premature labor, diarrhea, intestinal infection, constipation, vaginitis, irritable bowel syndrome and leaking gut. According to research studies, administering probiotics in appropriate doses promotes a healthy digestive system and immune system and regulates cholesterol level and blood pressure. Commercially, probiotics are found in the form of tablets, powders, capsules and other dietary supplements.

Side Effects of Probiotics

In spite of various claims regarding health benefits of probiotics, they are not recommended for treatment of certain diseases. More clinical trials are to be conducted for confirmation of its safe and therapeutic use . Probiotics should not be used as a replacement option for prescribed medications. In order to prevent any health complications, always consult a qualified physician before using probiotics.

As of now, there have been no reports regarding severe health complications after administration of probiotics. In normal healthy persons, probiotics when taken in recommended doses, does not cause any significant side effect. As per the physician's recommendation, you can increase the doses of probiotics gradually. In rare cases, they may lead to mild digestive problems like flatulence, bloating, diarrhea and abdominal pain. If probiotics are taken in excess amount, there are chances of developing infections that require medical attentions.

In case of people having an underlying disease or a compromised immune system, probiotics can cause potential health problems. In fact, these individuals are at a higher risk of developing infection after the use of probiotics. Symptoms such as bloody stools, skin rash and fever are indications of intestinal infection. In addition, probiotics may disturb the normal metabolic processes and autoimmune responses of the body. According to medical studies conducted, there is a possibility that probiotics may interact with immunosuppressive drugs, leading to life-threatening conditions. Hence, those who are on immunosuppressive medications should strictly avoid probiotics.

It is to be noted that the effects of a particular probiotic vary from those of others. Hence, while opting for probiotics, make sure to select the specific probiotic strain. As there are no standard regulations for manufacturing probiotic products, one major issue is the contamination of toxic chemicals or other substances. It is always recommended to buy products from a reliable source, so as to prevent unwanted complications. In case of any symptoms after administering probiotics, one should seek immediate medical attention.