IBS and Probiotics: Can they help?
I'm often asked, as a nutritionist and dietician, about potential probiotic benefits, especially in regards to digestive problems such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. In this article, we will examine the topic in depth by citing research studies and statistics as well as providing some practical advice. You should know by the end if probiotics are effective in treating digestive problems like IBS.
Probiotics are important for IBS management
Can probiotics help with digestive problems like IBS? It is important due to their prevalence and lack of treatment options. IBS affects up to 15 percent of global populations, according to the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders. It's important to look at all options for treatment, such as dietary changes like using probiotics.
Live bacteria and yeasts, also known as probiotics, are beneficial for health. They are especially good for the digestive system. These bacteria are sometimes referred to as "friendly" or "good" because they keep the gut healthy. According to a study in the British Medical Journal, certain probiotic strains can reduce the pain and severity symptoms of IBS in patients. This indicates the importance of microorganisms for managing digestive problems.
Probiotics: How to Start?
It's vital to consult a health professional before starting any new supplement. This includes probiotics. A healthcare professional can give you personalized advice, based on both your current and past medical conditions. If you are given permission to use probiotics in your diet, there is a variety of ways that they can be incorporated.
Fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi and yogurt contain high levels of probiotics. You can also buy probiotics in powder or pill form. Not all probiotics work the same. Different strains of bacteria have different impacts on your body. According to some research , Bifidobacterium strains and Lactobacillus may have a positive effect on IBS.
Probiotics and IBS: Examples
- Probiotics are found in many types of yogurt.
- Kefir is fermented milk product that contains Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria and other beneficial bacteria.
- Sauerkraut is rich in fiber and probiotics, but it also contains a high concentration of fermented cabbage.
- Due to the fermentation process, Kimchi is a spicy Korean side dish that contains a wide variety of probiotics.
- Miso is a traditional Japanese condiment made by fermenting soy beans with salt, and then adding a type fungus known as koji.
- Pickles are an excellent source of probiotics. Pickles that are fermented with brine (not vinegar) will provide you with probiotics.
- Tempeh: A plant-based source of protein and probiotics made from fermented soy beans, tempeh contains a high level of probiotics.
- These products are available over the counter in health food and pharmacy stores. They contain a high concentration of probiotics.
Other Tips
Probiotics are not the only way to manage IBS. Overall digestive health is dependent on a balanced diet, exercise regularly, enough sleep and managing stress. It's also important to keep in mind that, while generally safe, probiotics can have side effects such as gas or bloating. Start with a small dose, and then increase it gradually to your desired level as you adjust.
Conclusion
The answer to the question "Can probiotics help treat digestive problems like IBS?" is a cautious yes. Yes, but with caution. Probiotics are not the cure for IBS, but they may help some people with their symptoms. The best probiotics for IBS will vary from person to person due to the complex nature of the gut and its variability. Any changes you make to your supplement or diet regimen should always be discussed with your healthcare provider.
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