Bad Reactions to Probiotics

According to probioticnutrition.com, the human body is a host to essential bacteria. Probiotics are live microorganisms that contain "friendly" bacteria and can be ingested through food or supplements. They are thought to be beneficial, yet bad reactions have been reported.

Identification

• Bad reactions to probiotics are identified mostly through digestive symptoms, the most common of which are gas and constipation, reports csa.com.

Prevention/Solution

• According to Mary Ellen Sanders, Ph.D., president and executive director of the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, "The only side effects that have been documented are bloating or minor intestinal disruptions, but with consistent use, this will pass."

The Facts

• According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), the safety of probiotics has not been shown scientifically, especially in the elderly, young children and those with weak immune systems.

Significance

• Most people who experience reactions from probiotics do not suffer major side effects, the NCCAM says, although probiotics could ignite infections that require treatment with antibiotics. This is most likely to occur in patients with pre-existing health conditions, such as those with damaged GI tracts.

Warnings

• The NCCAM points out that probiotics are regulated as food, not medicine, and suggests talking to your doctor before starting any alternative health treatment.