There’s been a lot of talk about IBS in recent years. There’s a common misconception that it’s a disease in and of itself. However, as a syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a combination of concurrent symptoms throughout the abdomen and bowels. These symptoms may include constipation, diarrhea, and a variety of others. Recently there’s been a movement to encourage the consumption of probiotics to help reduce the severity of IBS. Despite its popularity, it’s essential to know the facts. Alternative Health Center of the Woodlands brings you this article to help you understand when probiotics can help IBS and when it’s best to avoid them.
Probiotics for IBS: Do They Help Or Harm Your Condition?
Probiotics describe living microorganisms shown to have various health benefits when ingested. The most common claims are that they can restore or improve the health of your gut microbiota. Gut microbiota is a term to describe the host of organisms that live within our bodies and help our digestive system function. They include fungi, archaea, viruses, and bacteria that coexist within us. When this biome gets out of balance, it can interfere with our ability to digest properly. Given their known effects on our digestive system, it’s little surprise that those with IBS have looked to them to find relief from their symptoms. The question is, are they effective?
Before we talk about whether or not they’ll benefit your IBS symptoms, let’s discuss when they may make things worse. Patients with SIBO, or small intestine bacterial overgrowth, should avoid probiotics. With their overactive system, introducing additional flora into the digestive system will only aggravate their condition. However, those who test negative for this condition can benefit from IBS, especially those strains that contain lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.
The most common species of probiotics found in dietary and food supplements include the following:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Bifidobacterium infants
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium animalis
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
While considering these probiotics, knowing the difference between prebiotics and probiotics is essential. These two terms can be confusing for first-time users of these supplements. Probiotics are good bacteria that are bottled for consumption. Prebiotics are plant fibers that can ferment to feed probiotics. Probiotics have many benefits, including their beneficial impact on IBS. Some of these benefits include:
- Fighting Inflammation
- Immunity Boosting
- Reducing the production of gas
- Reducing inflammation
- Reducing the growth of harmful bacteria
If you want to explore more updated information about probiotics and whether they may hold the secret to reducing your IBS symptoms, call the Alternative Health Center of the Woodlands today!
Take The Next Step In Managing Your IBS With Us
Don’t wait to discover the benefits of probiotics in managing the common symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome! Call our office today, and we’ll arrange for an exam and consultation with one of our team of experts. During your consultation, we’ll review your diet and lifestyle, discuss your symptoms, and determine if our treatment options will work for you. We’ll await your call at (281) 419-9104, so don’t wait!
