Probiotics for Sinus Infections

The most common treatment for a sinus infection is a round of antibiotics, but these medications can cause uncomfortable side effects because they kill all bacteria in the body, including helpful bacteria in the digestive tract. Probiotics are supplements containing these good bacteria that can help the body return to its normal balance.

Significance

• Probiotics counteract the affects of antibiotics by restoring the balance of good bacteria in the body, according to Dr. Jennifer Brett, a Connecticut naturopathic doctor.

Function

• In addition to countering the affect of antibiotics, probiotics boost the immune system, according to research published by the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. A stronger immune system can fight the sinus infection more effectively.

Misconceptions

• Probiotics cannot cure sinus infections. They simply support the body's own infection fighting ability.

Expert Insight

• Brett recommends purchasing probiotics that contain live cells, which have been refrigerated and have a mixture of bacteria strains with at least one billion organisms in each capsule.

Warning

• The safety of probiotics has not been scientifically tested, particularly for those with compromised immune systems, according to the NCCAM.