Dr. Christina Dennis, a family medicine physician at Medical Associates of North Georgia, recently shared insights on how probiotics and prebiotics can support gut health, while also noting some important cautions.
What are probiotics?
“Probiotics are live microorganisms. They’re usually bacteria or yeast,” Dennis explained. “They help with digestive problems such as diarrhea, and they are often called good bacteria or friendly bacteria.”
Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, sourdough bread and kombucha. Some fiber supplements and fortified products also contain probiotics.
“The purpose of probiotics is to support your gut health and just your overall wellness,” she said.
The role of prebiotics
Dennis also emphasized the difference between probiotics and prebiotics.
“Prebiotics are just regular foods that we aren’t able to digest,” she said. “Once we eat it, it makes its way into our large intestine. The good bacteria can actually feed on this, and that’s how they grow and help to populate our GI tract.”
Examples of prebiotic foods include apples, bananas, onions, wheat, oats and rye.
The benefits of probiotics
According to Dennis, probiotics can play a crucial role in restoring gut balance.
“Sometimes our gut can be affected by illness, antibiotics or poor diet,” she said. “Probiotics can help restore this balance by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria.”
Probiotics may help with diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and even prevent stomach infections. They also aid digestion and help the body absorb nutrients more efficiently.
“Some strains have even been linked to better mental health outcomes,” Dennis noted. “I’m a firm believer that if you feel less bloated or less gassy, then you’ll feel better overall, even with your mental health.”
The drawbacks and risks
Still, probiotics are not without limitations.
“Not all of the strains work in the same way,” Dennis explained. “Supplements are not FDA regulated, so with some brands, there’s just no way of making sure all of them are completely safe.”
Common side effects may include gas, bloating and an upset stomach.
“Over time, these effects can dwindle down, but they can happen in the beginning,” she said.
In certain patients, probiotics may pose more serious risks.
“Some patients who are undergoing cancer treatment, transplant patients or those with weakened immune systems should avoid probiotics,” Dennis cautioned. “Even though it’s good bacteria, it’s still bacteria, and in these patients, probiotics can increase their risk for infection.”
Choosing wisely
Popular brands like Culturelle® and Florastor® are widely used and generally considered safe for most people, but Dennis underscored the importance of medical guidance.
“Always talk to your doctor before deciding to start a probiotic,” she advised. “Benefits may be strain specific, so it’s worth having that discussion.”
Ultimately, probiotics and prebiotics can work together to support digestive health and overall well-being.
But Dennis reminded patients that results vary: “We’re still working on collecting evidence about the overall benefits of probiotics. Some doctors recommend them, and some don’t. But for many patients, they’re worth a try.”
Consult your health care provider about what is right for you.
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