Do Probiotics Help Stomach Pain

How Long Does It Take Probiotics To Work

The short answer is: It depends on the specific outcome youre hoping to achieve, the current condition of your gut and overall health, and the quality of the probiotic you are taking.

If you are taking a high quality, multispecies and multistrain supplement, you can expect to notice initial improvements and health benefits of probiotics in your digestion as early as the first 1-2 weeks after starting your probiotic.

Depending on how sensitive you are, many people feel a difference after a few days. More fundamental effects of the probiotics such as improvements to mood, weight loss or a reduction in inflammation of your gut barrier might set in after 4-8 weeks.

Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic

Image courtesy Culturelle

Culturelles Digestive Probiotic is a daily supplement that contains 3 highly active probiotics to improve digestion and reduce gas, bloating, cramping, and abdominal pain caused by IBS.

Culturelle is a well-researched brand that has been clinically improved to help with bloating, gas, and IBS symptoms.

Read Also: Who Are Probiotics Good For

Are Probiotics Good For Ibs

IBS is a common digestive system disorder that causes symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and stomach cramps. There is no cure for IBS, but probiotics might be able to relieve the symptoms.

Probiotics help to stabilise the bacterial communities in your gut by introducing helpful live bacteria that keep the gut lining healthy, maintain order between microbes, and balance the pH.

There are many different IBS symptoms and there are specific probiotic strains for each symptoms:

Don’t Miss: How To Stop Stomach Cramps Period

Other Treatments For Ibs

Probiotics are far from the only treatment thats effective for IBS symptoms. Other helpful methods for addressing IBS exist, such as:

• Regular exercise
• Quality sleep

When treating IBS, you first need to know the underlying cause. Talk with an integrative specialist about diagnosing the root cause of your IBS, which could be parasites, low vagal tone, hormone imbalance, or even food poisoning.

Endoscopic Drainage Follows The Gallbladders Natural Path

Endoscopic drainage mimics the healthy route of bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine. An endoscopic transpapillary treatment involves accessing the cystic duct with a camera through the mouth and down the throat. Then a wire is placed through the duct into the gallbladder. It is coiled to imitate the trajectory of the bile out of the small intestine, which is the same process as that of a healthy gallbladder. Kumta says that this form of treatment allows the gallbladder to resume normal bile disposal.

Also Check: How To Make My Stomach Flat Without Exercising

How To Ensure The Probiotic Will Work

To ensure your probiotic is working, make sure to follow the recommended use instructions on the packaging. Depending on the delivery mechanism, the method of taking your probiotic may differ. For example, some probiotics may need to be dissolved in a liquid, whereas others may need to be taken on an empty stomach.

Certain medications such as antibiotics can have a negative impact on the good bacteria in your gut and in your probiotic supplement, so probiotics are best taken away from other medications.

Check the product label for storage instructions to make sure your probiotic is stored properly. Improper storage can make your probiotic less likely to work.

Lastly, check the expiration date to make sure that the probiotic supplement has not expired.

How Much Should I Expect To Spend On My Daily Probiotics

The price for supplements varies depending on the ingredients, the type of probiotic, and the brand.

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when trying to find a cheap but quality supplement: for example, buying a large quantity can save you money in the long run.

Also, remember that you dont have to buy the most expensive one on your local store shelf. The supplements that are priced higher than others dont necessarily mean they are better.

Other factors like where the product is manufactured, how many strains of bacteria it contains, etc., can affect its price. Some brands may charge more for their probiotics simply because they have sought out high quality ingredients and put a lot of research into making sure their supplement is effective.

You May Like: What Can I Take For Stomach Cramps

Effects Of Ld Interventions On Intestinal Flora

The alpha diversity of the intestinal flora in gallstone model mice was significantly reduced. The significant decrease in the Chao1 index of the gallstone group indicates that the gut microbial abundance of gallstone mice was significantly reduced , but the significant increase in the goods coverage index indicates that the biodiversity was reduced . The results of the animal model are consistent with the changes in the intestinal flora of patients with gallstones. The species accumulation curve tends to flatten gradually, indicating that the sampling is sufficient, and the samples can reflect the richness of species . The rank abundance curve reflects the abundance and uniformity of species in the sample . Compared with the control group, the beta diversity of the intestinal flora of gallstone model mice was significantly different.

Figure 2. The difference in bacterial flora between the gallstone group and the control group was analyzed at different levels. Analysis of changes in flora at the phylum level. Analysis of changes in flora at the genus level. Analysis of changes in flora at the species level. .

Probiotics: Who Shouldn’t Take Them

Some people find that taking probiotics causes symptoms like gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. For most people, these symptoms are temporary however, side effects are more likely in those who are very young or elderly and those who have less robust immune systems or a damaged immune system, such as those with HIV or a terminal illness. Indeed, probiotics might not be good for people who are already extremely ill.

A general concern is that probiotics are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration , Lucak says. Instead, they are classified as a food supplement, so the health claims of the manufacturers are not subject to verification and may not be accurate. As a result, evidence also suggests that the strains and concentration per dose can be inaccurate from company to company and even from bottle to bottle of the same brand.

Keep in mind that the effects of one strain of probiotics do not necessarily hold true for other strains or even for different preparations of the same species or strain. If you do experience gas and bloating from one type of probiotic, you can try switching to a different kind to see whether it agrees more with your digestive system.

Because the quality and quantity of probiotics is not regulated by the FDA, it is difficult to accurately assess the effectiveness of one formulation against another, Lucak says.

Also Check: What To Do If Your Dog’s Stomach Hurts

The Power Of Probiotics

It may seem strange: Youre taking antibiotics, so wouldnt probiotics undo the good your treatment is doing?

However, probiotics add helpful bacteria to your digestive system not the bacteria that cause infections. They dont have any effect on the antibiotic treatment. They only treat the side effects.

The thing that has really been shown to help the most with preventing diarrhea is taking probiotics when taking antibiotics, Dr. Rabovsky says. He notes that reviews of studies suggest probiotics are effective both for regular antibiotic-associated diarrhea and for diarrhea related to C. diff. They also seem to help with side effects such as cramping and gas.

Probiotics come in several varieties. The most commonly studied for antibiotic-associated diarrhea are Lactobacillus rhamnosus-based and Saccharomyces boulardii-based probiotics. Probiotics come in capsules, tablets, powders and even liquid form.

With so many options, be sure to ask your doctor for advice before taking any probiotics, as you should for any type of supplement. Probiotics could possibly be harmful for people with immune deficiencies or those who are severely debilitated.

Increased Risk Of Infection

review from 2017 suggest that children and adults with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems should avoid using probiotics. Some people with these conditions have experienced bacterial or fungal infections as a result of probiotic use.

If a person has a condition that affects their immune system, they should speak with their doctor before taking probiotics.

Also, anyone using antifungal medication should wait until the infection has cleared up before taking probiotics.

Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Hives On Stomach

How Probiotics For Ibs Can Fight Digestive Problems

Probiotics can effectively treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome unless you also suffer from small intestine bacterial overgrowth . If you have SIBO, probiotics may worsen your digestive discomfort.

If you test negative for SIBO, probiotics are an excellent treatment option for IBS. Probiotics repopulate the colonies of beneficial bacteria in your lower digestive system and lead to a healthier microbiome.

Which probiotics should I take for IBS?Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the best probiotic strains to take for IBS. Look for a probiotic brand made in the United States if possible, as the regulations are more stringent.

Read on to find out how probiotics can help treat IBS, what health benefits probiotics possess, and when not to take probiotics.

Done letting your gut issues rule your life? Join PrimeHealths Gut Health Group Visits and find lasting relief with a community of others who understand. only a few spots remain for the next group beginning on Sept 20!

Probiotics For Bloating Gas And Distention

When it comes to bloating, probiotics can help improve the balance of bacteria in your gut , which often corrects the underlying cause of the bloating.

Research supports this hypothesis. According to a meta-analysis published in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, Probiotics were associated with less abdominal pain compared to placebo . A randomized, controlled trial in the study showed probiotics significantly reduced abdominal pain and distention in IBS patients [39

Trusted SourcePubMedGo to source].

Recommended Reading: Where Does Your Stomach Hurt During Early Pregnancy

Probiotic Helps Kids’ Ibs

In the study, researchers looked at whether treatment with lactobacillusGG relieved symptoms of abdominal pain in 141 children with irritable bowel syndrome or functional abdominal pain, a condition where the medical workup does not identify a cause of the pain.

The children received either lactobacillusGG or a placebo for eight weeks and were then followed for another eight weeks.

The results showed that the probiotic significantly reduced the severity and frequency of abdominal pain symptoms, and this effect lasted for weeks after they stopped taking it.

For example, at week 12 of the study, 48 children taking lactobacillusGG were considered successfully treated, compared with 37 children in the placebo group.

In addition, the probiotic also improved the children’s results on an intestinal permeability test, which measures the effectiveness of the body’s natural gut barrier. An increase in intestinal permeability is a common problem in children with irritable bowel syndrome.

Researchers say the improvements in the intestinal permeability test were mainly seen in children with IBS compared with those with functional abdominal pain.

Show Sources

Amines In Probiotic Foods May Trigger Headaches

Some probiotic-rich foods, like yogurt, sauerkraut and kimchi, contain biogenic amines (11,

14 ).

Amines can excite the central nervous system, increase or decrease blood flow and may trigger headaches in people sensitive to the substance .

One study found that low-histamine diets reduced headaches in 75% of participants. However, a review of 10 controlled studies found no significant effect of dietary amines on headaches .

More research is needed to determine whether or not amines can be direct triggers of headaches or migraines in some people.

Keeping a food diary including any headache symptoms you might experience can help clarify whether fermented foods are problematic for you.

If probiotic-rich foods trigger your symptoms, a probiotic supplement may be a better choice.

Summary

Fermented foods rich in probiotics naturally contain amines. Some people may experience headaches after eating these foods, and should instead opt for probiotic supplements.

Also Check: Can You Take Zyrtec D On An Empty Stomach

Probiotics For Diarrhea Ibs

The Saccharomyces boulardii yeast is among the most promising of probiotics for diarrhea IBS. A 2014 study found that, when administered with ispaghula husk, a type of dietary fibre used to treat bowel movement issues, S. boulardii had an anti-inflammatory effect which could presumably be associated with an improvement in overall symptoms.

One study using the multi-strain Bio-Kult® probiotic brand with 14 different bacteria was effective at improving abdominal pain and stool frequency in patients with IBS-D over a 16-week period. The participants reported no serious side effects and a significant improvement in quality of life.

Can probiotics help IBS?Yes, research has shown that single and multi-strain probiotics can help improve specific IBS symptoms.

Probiotics For Viral Gastroenteritis/stomach Flu

In the previous section we learnt that Saccharomyces boulardii can be used to cleanse the pathogens involved in food poisoning from the gut. However, this amazing probiotic strain has even proven to be effective against certain viruses including rotavirus3, one of the viruses often implicated in stomach flu. So it seems that whether symptoms were bought on by eating contaminated food, or simply through contact with a person suffering with a stomach virus, Saccharomyces boulardii is the best probiotic for upset stomach.

Saccharomyces boulardii

Another probiotic strain which could be of note here is Lactobacillus paracasei CASEI 431®. This strain is known for its immune-modulatory properties: one 2012 study4 showed that after just 6 weeks of intervention with this probiotic strain, study participants saw an average 37% increase in IgG production versus the placebo group, and a significant increase in sIgA over placebo. The antibody IgG protects against both viral and bacterial infections in the host.

Lactobacillus paracasei CASEI 431® has not been researched specifically for gastric flu but has been researched and shown to be help with diarrhoea in children5, and is well-documented for immune support so may be another option to consider for those who often suffer from viral upset stomachs.

Lactobacillus paracasei CASEI 431® is found in Optibac Probiotics Immune Support.

Don’t Miss: How Effective Is Coolsculpting On Stomach

Expert Tips For Choosing Probiotics

Probiotics come in two forms: live cultures such as in yogurt or in a dormant form, such as those found in capsules. If you want to try probiotics, here are tips to help you choose.

One advantage to probiotics in food is that they may also contain other beneficial ingredients, such as dietary fiber, which also promotes digestive health. But most experts agree that its a matter of preference whether you consume probiotics in your diet or as supplements.

Watch the expiration date. Because probiotics are living organisms, the amount placed in the container or capsule when it was manufactured may not be the same as when you consume the product. You must use these products before the expiration date to be sure the probiotic is still effective.

Play detective. If your doctor recommends a specific species and strain of probiotic, be aware that you may have a difficult time finding it. Many manufacturers dont tell you exactly which strain is in their product they only list the species . If youre looking for a specific strain of probiotic and its not listed on the label, call the manufacturer and ask. This information might also be on the companys website.

Buyer beware. To avoid being scammed, dont order products online unless you know and can trust the site. Keep in mind that the price of probiotics can vary tremendously, and a higher cost doesnt necessarily mean the products are of higher quality.

Additional reporting by Erica Patino

How Safe Are Probiotics

Because microbes used as probiotics already exist naturally in your body, probiotic foods and supplements are generally considered safe. They may trigger allergic reactions, and may also cause mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or flatulence and bloating for the first few days after starting to take them.

There are certain people who need to use caution when using probiotic supplements. There is a risk of infection in some people. These people include those who have:

• A weakened immune system .
• A critical illness.

Caution should also be used when giving probiotics to very sick infants.

Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting a probiotic supplement.

Don’t Miss: What Is The Fastest Way To Lose Stomach Fat

They Can Increase Infection Risk For Some

Probiotics are safe for the vast majority of the population, but may not be the best fit for everyone.

In rare cases, the bacteria or yeasts found in probiotics can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in susceptible individuals (

50 ).

Research also suggests that people with severe acute pancreatitis should not take probiotics, as this may increase the risk of death .

Summary

People with compromised immune systems, venous catheters, recent surgery, acute pancreatitis or prolonged hospitalizations should avoid taking probiotics.

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Biotics

These probiotics include 16 strains, substrains, prebiotics, and over 50 billion CFUs.

The product is vegan and does not contain genetically modified organisms , soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients. Also, it comes with a 90-day money back guarantee.

However, it is frequently out of stock.

This product costs $49.95 for a 1-month supply, $43.99 per bottle for a 3-month supply, and $37.99 per bottle for a 6-month supply.

Also Check: What Can You Wrap Around Your Stomach To Lose Weight

Can I Use Probiotics To Help With Medical Conditions

There is currently a large amount of research happening around the idea of what probiotics can do for your body. Even though there are a lot of possibly positive outcomes, researchers are still working to find definitive answers about how probiotics can help with various conditions.

However, there are some medical conditions where probiotics may help. This can vary between people meaning that what works for one person may not work for another. These can also vary based on the certain probiotic that is taken.

Some of the conditions that might be helped by increasing the amount of probiotics in your body include:

• Upper respiratory infections .
• .