Probiotics Adverse Effects
Probiotics adverse effects on the body can occur but are rare. The definition of probiotics is “the use of specific strains of microorganisms to encourage a healthy proliferation of beneficial microorganisms in humans”. Is this process an intervention on our parts? No, it has been happening for centuries and actually is a natural process.
Certain strains of good bacteria can actually help humans, especially the sick, the elderly and infants. This bacterium is actually very beneficial in helping the body to fight certain medical ailments like constipation, diarrhea and even assists in fighting bad bacteria that can cause more serious issues such as certain forms of cancer.
As with any type of intervention, there are some risks involved regardless of how major or minor they are. For the most part when taking probiotics, adverse effects are not experienced but this doesn’t mean that there aren’t any side effects. Side effects can occur and they have occurred but only in rare circumstances.
Isolated probiotics adverse effects noted
Bloating – Although this can be uncomfortable, some may experience probiotics adverse effects of an increase in gas production within the digestive tract. The gas production is proliferated due to the beneficial bacteria. There is no known threat to this effect at this time.
Increased susceptibility – Approximately one in one million react with completely opposite effects. Instead of receiving positive benefits from the probiotics supplements, they actually become more susceptible.
Endocarditis – Only a very few cases have been documented in which the patient suffered from endocarditis due to lactobacilli strains of bacteria. These cases are too few and occur too far between to even be considered as part of the safety guidelines of using probiotics.
Liver abscesses – For individuals who have extremely low immune responses or have had operations that are considered major, probiotics supplements can be the cause of liver abscesses. If you feel that probiotics would help you, please consult with your primary physician before taking any supplements.
Venous catheters – Those with a venous catheter can be at risk if an unchecked lactobacilli strain proliferates. Please consult with your physician to ensure that you can use probiotics.
Pancreatitis – This condition increases the risks of complications if taking probiotics while following traditional methods of treatment. It is possible for the medication and the probiotics to disagree with one another; please first consult with your physician before taking any additional supplements.
Adding any supplement or medication can alter the body’s natural processes when taking in an excess. Probiotics are meant to increase the overall efficiency and productivity of the human body’s digestive system and immune system. Bacteria found naturally in the body wards off harmful microorganisms; anything that is not naturally produced by the body could do more harm than good if taken and used improperly.
If you are currently taking any medication or are allergic to dairy products, speak to your physician before taking any probiotics supplements. If you are healthy and are not experiencing any health issues, you should not experience any probiotics effects that are negative towards the body. Take in moderation and if you have any concerns, stop taking the probiotics and if the side effects continue consult with your doctor.
There are a number of different probiotics supplements available so you have options as to which one may be best for you. With very few probiotics adverse effects documented, a high success rate is in your favor for a healthy digestive system.
