Should You Be Taking Them?
Probiotics have become increasingly popular, lining the shelves of health stores and pharmacies. But are they truly beneficial?
Scientists' understanding of probiotics is evolving. While once considered a helpful daily dose of healthy bacteria, some experts now believe they may not be as effective as previously thought.
Dr. Aditya Sreenivasan, a gastroenterologist, highlights the individualistic nature of probiotics. He emphasizes that each probiotic and individual is unique, making it difficult to determine which specific probiotic will benefit a particular person, especially those experiencing gut issues.
Dr. Sreenivasan advises against stopping probiotics if they provide some benefit, but also cautions against starting them without a specific reason. He suggests trying probiotics for significant IBS that doesn't respond to other treatments, but acknowledges their high cost and the possibility of wasted money.
Dr. Shilpa Ravella, a transplant gastroenterologist, echoes the sentiment that probiotics are best used for specific issues under a doctor's guidance. She cites inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea as examples of conditions where probiotics may be prescribed.
However, both experts emphasize caution when using probiotics. Dr. Sreenivasan advises against their use for individuals with compromised immune systems, Crohn's disease, or ulcerative colitis. Additionally, the FDA does not classify probiotic capsules as drugs, meaning they are not required to be proven safe and effective.
Dr. Ravella recommends consulting a gastroenterologist for personalized advice on probiotics, especially if you have specific conditions or symptoms. For those without significant gut issues, she suggests focusing on a diet rich in whole, plant-based foods to support gut health before resorting to supplements.