Probiotics – Are they worth it?

Probiotics are often considered in the treatments of various intestinal diseases. Are they worth it?

In my constant research in treating some of the symptoms related to my Crohn’s disease I often come across probiotics. Probiotics are live microorganisms that have demonstrated beneficial effects on human health.

When it comes to treatment for IBDs, are they worth it?

In short, maybe. In this of study Randomized Controlled Trials (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28294322/) analysis of 9 trials showed that probiotics had no significant effect on Crohn’s Disease, but 3 trials in children with IBD revealed a significant advantage. Analysis of 18 trials revealed that probiotics in patients with Ulcerative colitis in different conditions have significant effects.

In a way it makes sense that probiotics would be more effective with people who suffer from Ulcerative colitis as probiotic bacteria populate in the colon.

How effective are probiotics for treating symptoms?

As of right now, probiotics are not used to treat active IBDs and associated flare ups. However, they could be a good choice for those in remission. Now if they would specifically work for you is uncertain. It’s hard to predict who will have a favorable outcome when it’s comes to supplementing probiotics.

How to Approach Supplementation of Probiotics

Have you ever looked at the back of bottle of probiotics? Have you noticed various strains that you can hardly pronounce? Well these strains are the bacteria that will hopefully populate your gut and provide some symptomatic relief. In my opinion there are two ways to approach supplementing probiotics: broad spectrum or single strain.

Broad spectrum: Using a probiotic with multiple strains at once in a effort to see if they help.

Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra Ultimate Probiotic Formula

Single strain: Using a single strain at a time to see how you react.

Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic Strain

As always, talk to your physician if you have any concerns on adding a new supplement to your regimen.

Probiotics, are they worth? It depends on you. Some may work, some don’t. It may be worth it to at least give it a shot. You can try one of the examples posted above and see how you feel after a few weeks.