Diarrhea is an illness that causes loose and watery bowel movements. While most healthy adults may expect to suffer an episode of diarrhea approximately once per year, most children often suffer it twice as frequently. Although it’s quite common. However, any other illness, diarrhea is not particularly pleasant for anyone and its consequences can be anything from annoying to disastrous.
Probiotics, living bacteria that exist in the gut, are the focus of studies into how they might lessen the intensity of diarrhea or perhaps stop it from starting at all.
But do probiotics help you with diarrhea? If yes, then how? Let’s find out:
How Probiotics May Treat and Prevent Diarrhea
Diarrhea has a minimum of four primary root causes, including:
- Infections (germs) from outside, including well-known ones
- Medications and healthcare procedures such as radiation treatment and antibiotics
- Intestinal swelling
- Psychological and physical strain
We must first know how probiotics assist our digestive health to see what they can do to benefit us. Probiotics are “good bacteria” that can be found both inside and outside of the body, but they are most commonly found in the digestive tract. They are the first line of defense against the causes of diarrhea as outlined above. That’s why experts recommend including them in your meals and health activities.
This is where probiotic supplements come into play.
With regards to how they can help treat and prevent diarrhea, what we do know is this:
According to studies, balanced gut flora can prevent dangerous microbes from spreading throughout the body.
One explanation for this is the antibacterial properties of many probiotic strains, which can prevent the growth of infections including Salmonella, Vibrio cholerae, E. coli, and C. difficile.
A healthy gut mucosa is also a result of an optimum microbiota. As a result, bacteria are less likely to adhere to the gut lining or pass through it to infect other body areas.
Additionally, a high number of beneficial bacteria has an opportunity to force out the bad ones, depriving them of nutrition and space to grow into digestive symptoms like diarrhea.
In simple terms, how effectively your immune system works depends on the composition of your intestinal bacteria.
In addition to fine-tuning the immune system, the gut microbiome interacts with the brain in a complex transmission system that regulates how quickly food passes through your digestive tract.
To control what is referred to as “gut transit time,” the bacteria in your gut react with the foods you consume, the viruses you come into contact with, and the chemicals your body makes (GTT). For instance, your GTT takes too long when you have constipation.
It happens too quickly in the case of associated diarrhea. Constipation and diarrhea are common occurrences, but a gut inhabited primarily with helpful bacteria helps maintain a regular rate of digestion.
You could increase your chances of preventing stomach distress by using probiotic supplements in a prophylactic manner, such as before and throughout antibiotics.
There is a strong probability that probiotics can relieve the signs of diarrhea more quickly if the window of opportunity for protection has gone and diarrhea has already begun for whatever cause.
As the name suggests, probiotic supplements for women contain probiotics – live microorganisms that have evolved with humans.
Types of Diarrhea That Respond to Probiotic Treatment
There are several causes of diarrhea, including bacterial or viral illnesses, certain drugs, and travel-related exposure to certain microbes.
According to research, numerous forms of diarrhea can benefit from probiotic pills.
Acute Infectious Diarrhea
Infectious diarrhea refers to diarrhea brought on by or transmitted by an infectious bacterium, virus, or parasite. Untreated stomach discomfort and intestinal inflammation by these dangerous microorganisms can result in dehydration, colitis, and even death.
Although it can become chronic, infection often results in acute diarrhea (lasting less than 14 days). Particularly pervasive and harmful, rotavirus strikes the most helpless, notably children, in impoverished nations.
Probiotics, fortunately, are beneficial. According to experts, they strengthen the immune system so it can fight against illness.
Additionally, probiotics can reduce the length of an illness. Diarrhea caused by infectious agents affects developed nations as well. Every year, over 30% of the population of wealthy nations catches the infection, which typically spreads through food contamination.
Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea
There are some cases when taking antibiotics is just necessary. By eliminating both harmful and helpful germs, they help save lives. Even the helpful populations of bacteria in your gut are eliminated, frequently resulting in a microbiome imbalance and several unwelcome stomach problems.
Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) and other symptoms, including nausea, bloating, and stomach pain, can develop as soon as 48 hours after antibiotic-associated diarrhea treatment. After discontinuing one or more courses of antibiotics, you could feel “normal,” and for some healthy persons, the microbiota can recover independently.
Antibiotic treatment can drastically lower the amount and type of helpful microbes in certain people’s bodies.
You are more likely to develop illnesses and other conditions such as mood disorders, cognitive decline, and allergies if your gut microbiota is out of balance.
A sigh of relief is that taking probiotics while you’re on antibiotics can help reduce these side effects, including diarrhea, and support the recovery of a healthy microbiome.
Research supports this. In a meta-analysis of 17 trials involving more than 3,000 users of antibiotics, 18% of individuals who did not take probiotic supplements got AAD. The percentage of research participants who took probiotic supplements fell to 8%.
Travelers Diarrhea
It is a bit different from antibiotic-associated diarrhea. When traveling to a different city or country and eating germs with food, you develop traveler’s diarrhea (TD). Depending on where they visit and what time of year it is, it impacts 30–70% of passengers.
Travelers used to be given antibiotic prescriptions as a way to avoid TD. The issue is that some germs are developing antibiotic resistance, and some of the medications themselves can cause diarrhea.
As a result, scientists are exploring alternative strategies to prepare the body for potential travel-related challenges.
Previous studies on the effects of probiotic bacteria on traveler’s diarrhea had mixed findings because of certain probiotic strains. Generally, the destinations visited, the local flora, the dietary habits of the travelers, or the timing and method of probiotic administration contribute to the illness and its treatment.
Diarrhea In Children
Children’s diarrhea can be harmful. While occasionally having loose stools and losing fluids is common in children, frequent or severe occurrences of these issues in very young kids can rapidly result in dehydration and the loss of minerals.
This makes rotavirus and other viral diarrheal illnesses particularly dangerous. The same factors that cause diarrhea in adults, such as infections, underlying medical disorders, and drugs, can cause it in children as well.
Their immature immune systems are modified as their microbiomes grow. The best time to lay the groundwork for establishing a healthy gut microbiota is throughout childhood, through nutrition, lifestyle choices, and supplementation if necessary.
Finding a solution appropriate for the pediatric market is crucial since children benefit from different strains than grownups.
Best Types of Probiotics for Treating Diarrhea
Although there are many different kinds of probiotics, evidence indicates that supplementing with a handful of them is most effective in treating diarrhea.
The most efficient probiotic strains for curing diarrhea, according to the most recent scientific research, are those listed below:
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)
The probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is among the most popular. It comes with several health benefits, such as the prevention and treatment of diarrhea. Moreover, intestinal parasites and the activation of immunological responses that support immunization or even avoid some allergy reactions are well proven.
Even for the same illnesses, not all intervention trials demonstrated a medical improvement, and the findings are not always clear-cut.
Saccharomyces boulardii
It’s a particular probiotic, a type of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae. “Good” microorganisms like S. boulardii can assist in the defense against “bad” ones that could spread illness.
- boulardii sometimes referred to as brewer’s and baker’s yeast, is distinct from other strains of S. cerevisiae. S. boulardii is frequently used to treat and prevent diarrhea, notably rotaviral diarrhea in kids.
It’s also used for other forms of diarrhea, acne, an infection of the digestive tract that can result in ulcers, and many other illnesses. However, many of these additional treatments lack solid scientific backing. Additionally, there isn’t any solid evidence in favor of utilizing S. boulardii for COVID-19.
Bifidobacterium lactis
Bifidobacterium Lactis, a potent transitory probiotic that can help digestion, cure IBS, boost immunity, and decrease cholesterol levels, is extremely beneficial for chronic IBS.
Our digestive system or large intestine is home to the probiotic Bifidobacterium Lactis. Bifidobacterium Lactis is present in various foods, primarily milk and processed dairy items like unsweetened yogurt.
Bifidobacterium Lactis’ main job is to decompose the waste products from our bodies and assist in the intake of numerous vitamin and mineral nutrients during digestion.
Lactobacillus casei
For the treatment or prevention of diarrhea, probiotic supplements containing L. Casei are employed. This covers infectious diarrhea, traveler’s diarrhea, and diarrhea brought on by antibiotic use.
Probiotics like L. casei are often regarded as harmless and may be useful in controlling the digestive system. Numerous encouraging experiments employing L. casei have been conducted, and L. casei can also be found in some fermented foods.
These include several yogurt types, fermented milk resembling yogurt, and particular cheeses.
You may get nutritional supplements containing L. casei and other probiotics anywhere dietary supplements are offered, including health food shops. Examining labels before purchasing probiotics properly is beneficial, and taking expiry dates carefully and adhering to storing instructions are beneficial.
Possible Side Effects Related to Probiotics Use
Probiotics are extremely healthy to consume. But not for everyone. For some people, the initial two weeks may bring about uncomfortable changes, but you’ll look forward to the long-term positive consequences. Here is what to expect:
Gas And Bloating
Gas and bloating are one of the main side effects of probiotics. However, not everybody will face it. You’re only likely to face gas and bloating issues if your stomach cannot digest all the probiotics microbes.
Irregularity
Delay time, or how fast meals and waste pass through the digestive tract, can be sped up with probiotics. Although this is fantastic news for those who might go too often, it may initially result in reduced regularity.
It might be uncomfortable at first, but as your body gets better, this irregularity usually goes away, and you’ll start having more frequent bowel movements.
Headaches
Some probiotic foods include amines, which, particularly in those who are sensitive to them, might cause headaches. Probiotic pills typically don’t cause this side effect, but it might appear if you rapidly boost your diet of foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, which are high in probiotics.
How Long Do Side Effects From Probiotics Last?
The period of side effects of probiotics depends largely on your gut health and how your body reacts to the various probiotic strains.
Some claim that because everyone metabolizes probiotics differently, there isn’t a set period for everyone. Initial unpleasant side effects usually subside during the first two weeks as your gut microbiota settles into its new equilibrium.
It depends on how unbalanced your gut is and which strains you’re taking, but many individuals see the advantages of gut health as quickly as two days into probiotics.
Furthermore, it is always a great idea to consult your physician before adding any such element to your diet. Although probiotics aren’t harmful, you still need the approval of your physician the same way you would consult your doctor before taking medication for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or any other illness.
3 Best Probiotics of 2022
1. Probiology Gut +
If you are looking for the best probiotics to eliminate diarrhea, Probiology Gut + should be on top of your list.
By increasing the number of beneficial bacteria, the probiotic Probiology Gut + enhances the microbiome’s ability to maintain homeostasis. It assists in efficiently decomposing food materials, resulting in a smoother digestive system.
It does this by restoring the normal balance in the microbiota. Gas, bloating, upset stomach, and even IBS symptoms are removed. In addition to being able to digest food more effectively with the help of a good probiotic, weight loss is also facilitated by enhanced bowel movements that more effectively eliminate waste.
It aids the user in limiting his calorie consumption by removing food cravings. Through several nerves, our gut is directly linked to the brain, where it gets instructions for secreting the appropriate amount of hormones.
With the use of a proper probiotic, such as Probiology Gut +, the gut microbiome may be brought into balance with the addition of beneficial bacteria, enhancing immunity and allowing you to fight against externally damaging pathogens. This reduces the likelihood of contracting recurring illnesses.
One probiotic strain, L-Paracasei, found in the top-rated probiotic Probiology Gut +, has a particular property that helps preserve the skin layer. In this manner, the probiotic aids in achieving beautiful, clear skin.
2. Biotics 8
One of the top-rated probiotics on the internet market, Biotics 8, has met all of our review team’s selection criteria.
Bauer Nutrition is the company that makes the item. The product has an excellent combination of all the necessary components for a successful and long-lasting probiotic. Probiotic and prebiotic components, fiber, enzymes, and vitamins are all included in the probiotic product line Biotics 8. Moreover, it also helps with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
The combination demonstrates that the brand’s creator has thought about the consumers’ overall health and giving healthy bacteria and prebiotic fibers to feed the good bacteria.
You may enhance your gut, boost your health, and sharpen your mind by taking the probiotic brand Biotics 8.
It maintains the correct ratio in the gut’s bacterium by combining probiotic bacteria and prebiotic fiber. It facilitates better metabolism and assists users in improving their efficiency in the workout to increase muscular outcomes.
The amino acids in the Biotics 8 brand are present to increase energy levels and boost the body’s release of neurotransmitters, including dopamine, norepinephrine, and adrenaline. These chemicals are in control of elevating mood and decreasing stress.
The probiotic company Biotics 8 has secured optimum gut health by infusing vitamin B complex. The most crucial vitamin, vitamin B complex, aids in the breakdown of sugar, protein, lipids, and carbohydrates.
3. Physician’s Choice 60 Billion
Physician’s Choice, the number one probiotic brand, has the most strains of beneficial bacteria, up to 10.
The probiotic, Physician’s Choice, adds 60 billion CFUs of bacteria to the gut microbiome.
The appropriate amount of organic prebiotic is combined with the probiotic to feed the healthy bacteria. Furthermore, it can also help you with irritable bowel syndrome.
Physician’s Choice probiotic components are included in acid-resistant delayed-release capsules. This is important because the body’s alkaline environment kills the most beneficial bacteria as they pass through. As a result, the stomachs may safely receive the beneficial microorganisms. Additionally, it promotes digestion by achieving a suitable equilibrium in our gut microbiome.
It aids in the appropriate uptake of the food nutrients consumed by boosting the digestive tract. It encourages the creation of short-chain fatty acids that help with weight loss. The business has an efficient quality control strategy.
Its compliance with third-party testing is highly helpful for guaranteeing the caliber of the source of its substances. Additionally, it sends the finished piece through independent testing labs so it may be quality-checked before being sold and delivered.
Which Probiotic Is Right for You?
There are several options when looking for probiotics in the market. Several brands are available with various constituents, including pills, granules, and liquids. Most of the probiotics for diarrhea also help you with irritable bowel syndrome.
It might eat a few minutes of your time to learn more about probiotics, but it’s worth it. Here are the things you need to consider before buying a probiotic:
Ensure That They Are Safe to Consume
Probiotics shouldn’t be problematic for the majority of healthy people, according to specialists. If there are any adverse effects, they are often quite minor, such as slightly more gas than normal.
However, use caution if your immune system — your body’s line of defense against infections — is frail or you have a major medical condition. You should speak with your doctor in certain situations to see whether they are safe.
Before feeding yourself or your child probiotics, particularly if they are unwell, consult your doctor.
Go For Quality
Similar to vitamins and herbs, probiotics are offered for sale as dietary supplements. Unlike medications, the FDA does not examine them for quality or fitness statements made by the manufacturer.
That makes choosing a company you can rely on much more vital. Five of the 19 probiotics in one research had lower lactic acid bacteria counts than indicated on their packaging. In other instances, they also included microorganisms that weren’t meant to be there.
Consult your doctor for advice. You may also conduct your independent study to find out which brands receive great marks.
Count The CFUs
This informs you of the number of good bacteria in each dosage. The amount you require depends on the kind and the condition you’re trying to cure. There is no universal guideline to abide by. The majority of dosages you consume once or twice a day vary from 1 to 10 billion CFUs.
You might not receive the desired outcomes if you don’t consume enough CFUs. But sometimes more isn’t better. In fact, it can be an expensive mistake. Consult your doctor to see what you may require.
FAQs Regarding Probiotics:
1. What is a probiotic?
Prebiotics are those compounds that feed and maintain probiotic microorganisms. The probiotic strains must pass through the stomach’s acidic environment to reach their final destination, the intestines.
Prebiotics is included in the probiotic supplementation to aid in the survival of the probiotic strains. The prebiotic fibers feed the probiotics even after they’ve entered the gut.
2. What are the potential effects of probiotics as a method of treating acute infectious diarrhea?
Although it is rare, some people who begin taking a good bacteria medication could notice a change in their typical bowel pattern. This may result in softer stools and increased intestinal motility.
It is unknown why or how this could happen in some people. Still, it is assumed to be related to the disturbance the introduction of new bacteria in the shape of a probiotic medication causes to the gut microbiota.
3. Can probiotics cause constipation and how long would it take to see results?
Probiotics do not often cause constipation. In fact, people who experience slow stools may discover that a probiotic might help them maintain more regular bowel movements.
That said, individuals sensitive to constipation should avoid probiotic strains like Saccharomyces boulardii. It can slow down stool transit time if taken in greater dosages.
With regards to how much time it takes, the results might vary, depending on several variables, such as the user’s metabolism, food, exercise routine, and lifestyle.
After using probiotic pills for 48 hours, most consumers see some differences. Numerous advantages will become apparent as you continue consuming the probiotic.
Improvements in immunity, better cardiovascular health, better attention and other cognitive abilities, better mood, and better digestion are just a few of the advantages.
It may take a while before the complete effect manifests itself since the injection of beneficial bacteria boosts the body’s natural digestive function. Users must be persistent and continue to take the supplement over time.
4. Can probiotics help with other medical issues?
The potential health benefits of probiotics are now the subject of much investigation. Even with many potential advantages, scientists are still trying to determine how probiotics might benefit certain illnesses.
Nevertheless, probiotics may be beneficial for some medical disorders. This varies from person to person, so what functions for one person may not function for another. Depending on the specific probiotic that is used, they may also change.
5. Are there probiotics present in food?
The meals you consume can help you raise the good bacteria in your system. Your microbiota can thrive from the probiotics that are present in some diets.
Several fruits and vegetables come with a high quantity of probiotics, including bananas, watermelon, cucumbers, carrots, etc. With every meal, make sure you have one of these on the plate if you want to uplift your probiotics intake.
6. How effective are probiotics?
Probiotic supplements may treat various illnesses, but researchers are skeptical of their effectiveness. You can effectively treat infectious diarrhea with probiotics.
Researchers are working on this part of the probiotics. Researchers should still do extensive research to make probiotics more clear. It’s also critical to remember that nutritional supplements are not subject to FDA approval as opposed to prescription drugs.
This indicates that producers can merely make “claims” of safety and efficacy when marketing supplements.
Conclusion: Can Probiotics Cure Diarrhea?
Probiotics help prevent diarrhea brought on by antibiotic usage and loose stools brought on by dangerous infectious pathogens, according to research.
There are also probiotics for weight loss & probiotics for UTI if you want to have a look at it.
Probiotic products can modify the immune system and restore regular bowel habits. Therefore, if you or any of your family members are suffering from diarrhea, it is always a good idea to use probiotics.
