Taking Antibiotics? Take Probiotics

Photo credit: The Javorac

A recent meta-analysis examined a previously published group of studies about probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria, often taken in supplement form.

Researchers found a clear effect in favor of probiotic use when people took antibiotics.  In studies where people used probiotics for at least the duration of the antibiotic treatment, patients had a marked reduction in antibiotic associated diarrhea.

This was true even for patients who were not infected with Clostridium difficile, a type of bacteria known to cause post-antibiotic diarrhea.

 

Aliment Pharmacol Therapy 2012

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  Research and nutritional information included is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease and should not be used for medical diagnosis or treatment. Consult your physician before initiating any new dietary or supplement program. References available by request.

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