Should You Be Taking Them?
Probiotics are widely available as supplements, but their effectiveness remains a topic of debate. While some experts believe they offer limited benefits, others recommend them for specific conditions.
Dr. Aditya Sreenivasan, a gastroenterologist, emphasizes the individual nature of probiotic needs. He suggests a trial-and-error approach, as there's no definitive test to determine individual gut imbalances. He advises against stopping probiotics if they provide relief, but also cautions against starting them without a specific reason.
Dr. Shilpa Ravella, a transplant gastroenterologist, agrees that probiotics are best used for targeted issues under medical guidance. She recommends them for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
However, both experts warn against using probiotics if you have certain health conditions, such as being immunocompromised or having Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
Since the FDA does not classify probiotics as drugs, their safety and effectiveness are not rigorously tested. Dr. Ravella recommends consulting a gastroenterologist for personalized advice on probiotics.
If you're not experiencing specific gut issues, Dr. Ravella suggests focusing on a whole-food, plant-based diet to support gut health instead of relying on supplements.