The Probiotic Market Is Booming Sky High
According to several reports, probiotics were used, unintentionally, nearly 10,000 years ago, but spread as fermented milk in previous centuries, mainly in Europe, where in the Balkan regions life span longevity and healthy life were attributed to their fermented yogurt. Their food application expanded earlier and on a larger scale compared to the sales in sachets, capsules, or other pharmaceutical preparations . It seems that the trend is changing since direct personal consumption is surging abruptly alongside the adoption of self-care, integrative medicine, social enterprises, and aggressive media advertisement . In fact, according to global market analysts, the global probiotic market size is predicted to exceed 3 billion US dollars by 2024 . The market size for lactobacilli strains was valued at 1.2 billion US dollars in 2017, while the Bifidobacterium market size prediction will increase close to 6% until 2024 and the Bacillus strain market size may surpass 180 million US dollars by 2024 . According to the discussion group at the 2017 meeting of the International Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics, the estimate of product creation and sales will reach 50 billion US dollars within the next five years .
Should You Take Probiotics Everyday
A common question about probiotics is whether it is ok to take probiotic supplements every day. Whilst there may be a few exceptions to this rule, the general answer is yes, it’s safe, and usually recommended, to take them daily. It’s important to understand that probiotics are a natural supplement and not a medicine.
Can Probiotics Hurt Me
For most healthy people, probiotics dont cause any harm. They are generally considered safe and are often given a try to see if they could help with various medical conditions. Theres a lot of research around the topic of probiotics. Scientists are trying to determine when and how they should be used, as well as how effective they are. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting a probiotic supplement because there are some cases where you shouldnt be taking them. Its always best to have the conversation first before starting a new supplement.
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Is 50 Billion Cfu Probiotic Too Much
Erin Stokes, Naturopathic Physician, MegaFood Medical Director | March 2019
The recognition of probiotic dietary supplements has exploded in the previous few years, however the function of probiotics is often misunderstood. Lets unlock the reality on these seven widespread probiotic myths, and get the details:
My Third Experiment: Ingesting 660 Billion Bacteria
In the first 2 experiments, I took most of the bottle of a probiotic with a smaller count of 5 billion bacteria. There were also some confounding variables.
I waited maybe a month between this and the last two experiments.
This time I took 10 capsules of a probiotic with 66 billion bacteria in each pill. This equals 660 billion bacteria. I made sure there were no confounding variables this time.
To take the amount that I took, youd have to take 132 pills of your standard 5 billion species probiotic. Many probiotics have only 1 billion bacteria, which meansyoud have to take 660 pills of this to get the dosage I got.
I also had some gas from over-consuming these dried Blueberries and too much brussels sprouts . It could also be because I was experimenting with lots of chocolate in the preceding days, which makes my gut act up.
Anyway, the effect was the same as the first two times, but stronger. It was incredibly relaxing and made me feel really good. Its an incredible anti-depressant.
I experienced cognitive sensations the next day was pretty powerful. Any stronger and it wouldve turned into a headache.
There were the same sensations in my skin as well. I felt a bit of intestinal discomfort for an hour, but this went away.
In all three experiments, all gas went away when challenged with gas promoting supplements and food.
Also, my appetite was noticeably suppressed.
While its relaxing, its also wakeful-promoting.
I also seem to tolerate lectins better .
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How Much Is Too Much
Probiotics are considered safe for most people, except for individuals with suppressed immunity and with irritable bowel syndrome or IBS. The human body normally hosts upwards of a trillion microorganisms. There is a delicate balance among the 500 or so species some of which are bad and some good.
Eating lots of fermented food and other rich sources of probiotics is considered beneficial to maintain a healthy ecosystem in your small intestine. However, the right gut microbiome is unique to each individual.
It is possible that the supplements you take might introduce a particular strain of bacteria which is already rampant in your gut causing an imbalance. This can lead to side effects.
There is no set prescribed limit for the amount of probiotics you need. It becomes even more difficult as different manufacturers have different strains of bacteria and yeast in their supplements. However, a minimum of 14 billion CFUs or colony forming units is the recommended dosage.
What Is The Right Probiotic Dosage
Probiotics are the friendly bacteria that live in our digestive tract and they are getting more respected and more widely used everyday. In years past it was mainly natural health practitioners that would regularly recommend them to treat and prevent various conditions. Nowadays I see doctors notes almost daily recommending probiotics to their patients for many different reasons. Very commonly they are being prescribed for gastrointestinal disorders such as diverticulitis, diarrhea, and food poisoning. It is also very common to see them prescribed for use during and after antibiotic therapy, because it is know well known that antibiotics kill off the good bacteria along with the bad bacteria in the body. The question most of my clients have is how much should I take? This will be the focus of this article.Probiotics potency is measured in CFU . Simply stated, how many good bacteria are you getting per dosage? They can be purchased in a wide and often confusing array of dosages ranging for one billion CFU to two hundred billion CFU. From 1 to 200 billion, that is a very wide dosage range. It is no wonder people do not know what they should do. Here is my take on the dosage.
David Oromaner is a nutritional supplement specialist. He owns Guaranteed Supplement Designs that develops and distributes cutting edge natural products such as the natural sleep aid GuaranteedToSleep. It is considered to be the best alternative to traditional sleeping aids.
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How Many Times In A Day Is It Recommended To Take A Probiotic
As mentioned, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to probiotics, so it is crucial to figure out what works for you. Luckily, there is a lot of research that you can draw upon to help make a more educated decision when taking probiotics. The efficacy of your probiotics depends heavily on the dosage of your probiotics.
For example, a study in the American Family Physician August 2017 issue indicated that a dosage of a minimum of five billion colony-forming units per day was more effective when compared with lower dosages . Research from Harvard Health Publishing encourages people to take this in one dose per day, rather than taking several smaller doses.
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.
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The Probiotic That Worked For Your Friend Might Not Work For You
Even with antibiotic-associated diarrhea, which has the best evidence, “you could have seven people take the same probiotic and only have one report a definite difference,” says gastroenterologist Matthew Ciorba, M.D., a medical professor who studies human gut microbiota at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. That’s because each person’s microbial makeup is as unique as a fingerprint, influenced by age, genetics, and gender. For example, animal research from the University of Texas at Austin found the microbes living in the guts of males and females react differently to the same diet. Scientists are now studying ways to harness a person’s own microbes to treat illnesses, rather than going for a mass approach.
Should I Give Probiotics To My Kids
Probiotics can be beneficial for both adults and kids. If your child has an illness that requires an antibiotic medication for treatment, taking a probiotic can help shorten symptoms. Probiotics can also be used to help relieve constipation, acid reflux, diarrhea, gas and eczema in children.
Introducing probiotics into your childs diet through food is typically a safe way to give them probiotics. Foods like yogurt and cottage cheese are often part of a balanced diet and can add in good bacteria without much risk.
There are commercially available probiotic supplements specifically designed for infants and children. However, it is important to talk to your childs pediatrician before giving them any probiotic supplement or changing the childs diet to include probiotic-rich foods.
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Too Many Probiotics From A Single Strain
While there are no studies we know of, we do advise taking a multi-strain probiotic product as opposed to a single-strain supplement. Its possible that too many probiotics from a single strain may lead to a microbiome imbalance. This leads to a monoculture that may cause more harm than good. Again, there are no studies on this, but this is the sentiment expressed by Dr. Zach Bush, a triple-board-certified physician in the area of internal medicine, endocrinology and metabolism.
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In an interview with Shape magazine, Dr. Bush explains that too many probiotics from only one or two strains may create an unstable intestinal environment. We agree with this assessment. The gut microbiome is naturally diverse. Its unnatural to overpopulate it with a single strain and create an environment where a single bacterium even if beneficial dominates.
Is It Ok To Take Probiotics Every Day
A common question about probiotics is whether it is ok to take probiotic supplements every day. Whilst there may be a few exceptions to this rule, the general answer is yes, its safe, and usually recommended, to take them daily. Its important to understand that probiotics are a natural supplement and not a medicine.
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Megafood Is A Trusted Supply
At present, its simpler to seek out the precise probiotic complement designed in your particular person wants. To advertise wholesome digestion, and keep a wholesome stability of useful intestine micro organism,* the MegaFood line of probiotics is a trusted supply.
Feeling motivated? Proceed your journey in the direction of a happier intestine.
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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.
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Fable #: Probiotics Arent Secure For Being Pregnant
Whilst youll must seek the advice of your trusted healthcare practitioner to verify whats best for you, many probiotic strains can assist wholesome digestion and promote the well being and wellbeing of pregnant and breastfeeding mothers.* Research have proven that consumption of Lactobacillus rhamnosus over the past trimester and early breastfeeding helps a babys growing immune system.Footnote 2 Anticipating? Search for a probiotic complement particularly designed for prenatal and postnatal assist, and all the time run your plans by your physician earlier than incorporating one thing new into your complement routine.
Probiotic Foods Vs Probiotic Supplements
And considering that modifications in the microbiota have been linked to intestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, including “great” bacteria in the type of probiotics ought to enhance your health. But ” You could have 7 individuals take the exact same probiotic and only have one report a guaranteed distinction.”Authorities in the E.U., where supplements are more greatly controlled than in the U.S., haven’t licensed using the word probiotic to back any health claim.
So we asked scientists at the leading edge of probiotic research to assist us separate truth from hype, and pros … from cons. Here’s what you need to know. Numerous of the probiotic stress included to foods are selected because they are safe and can be manufactured inexpensively and quickly. They’re not always the ones that are best at preserving health or dealing with illness.
Strive 50 to 100 billion CFUs of a combo of lactobcillus and bifidobacterium. Beginning with a big quantity of CFUs will either keep you riding high or set off little but yucky reactions, like gas or nausea. If you see those, downsize to 50 billion, then 20 bill, up until you feel like your typical self.
Go the direct path – best probiotic supplement. Usage 2 to 5 billion CFUs in an OTC probiotic suppository, or damp an oral capsule to soften, then place it. Pros suggest doing this every other day at the end of your duration .
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A Closer Look At Colony
Research has shown that probiotics, both high and low CFU count, influence the host and support in reducing occasional digestive symptoms.*14,15The results of a double blind, placebo controlled, dose-ranging study showed greater benefits for those taking a higher CFU count capsule when compared to half the dose or placebo.16With each capsule containing 50 billion CFU of lactobacillus, the group receiving two capsules had a superior reduction in symptoms when compared to the other two groups, highlighting the use of a higher count of 100 billion CFU.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 randomized control trials evaluated the effect of probiotics on transit time. The general analysis of these multiple trials was that probiotics, at a dose ranging from less than 1 billion up to 17.2 billion CFU, improved stool frequency.*
However, study results assessing higher CFU probiotics suggest a different subset of benefits. A randomized controlled trial looked at the use of 450 billion CFU lyophilized bacteria or placebo for gastrointestinal health.18The results showed no significant improvement in transit measurements or bowel function scores between the placebo and the control group however, there was improvement in occasional abdominal bloating. Those receiving the daily probiotic did not see any change in other outcomes measured.
Do I Need To Take Probiotics After I Take Antibiotics
Antibiotic medications are often needed to fight an infection. However, while antibiotics are killing the bad bacteria, they are also knocking out the good bacteria in your body. Some people develop conditions like diarrhea after taking an antibiotic. In other people, this may allow for really bad bacteria to take over and populate the gut, such as with C. diff. Some research has shown a positive connection between taking probiotics after an antibiotic and relief from diarrhea. This hasnt been proven yet and doesnt work for everyone.
The thought behind adding probiotics back into your body after taking an antibiotic is that it can repopulate the good bacteria that was destroyed by the antibiotics and re-boot your system. The extra good bacteria helps repopulate your gut and fight off any remaining bad bacteria. Many people feel that adding in probiotics wont hurt, might help you feel better a little faster and prevent diarrhea.
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Is It Safe To Consume Probiotics Daily
Not only is it safe to take probiotics on a daily basis, but its recommended you do so. Creating a consistent routine increases probiotic benefits, which well dive into. Because probiotics are natural , they are safe to consume every day. No research indicates that the body can become dependent on probiotics.
Signs You Are Taking Too Many Probiotics: 3 Diarrhea
Diarrhea is characterized by loose, watery bowel movements that may happen more frequently. Diarrhea may also be accompanied with general abdominal pain, bloating, and nausea.
Acute diarrhea lasts only about a day or two and goes away on its own. It is usually caused by food or water that has been contaminated by a harmful bacteria, virus, or parasite. Diarrhea that lasts longer can point to a more serious underlying problem.
Probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Saccharomyces boulardii have actually been found to reduce the duration of diarrhea. However, overdosing on probiotics can irritate your gut and result in loose stools.
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How Do Probiotics Work
The main job of probiotics, or good bacteria, is to maintain a healthy balance in your body. Think of it as keeping your body in neutral. When you are sick, bad bacteria enters your body and increases in number. This knocks your body out of balance. Good bacteria works to fight off the bad bacteria and restore the balance within your body, making you feel better.
Good bacteria keeps you healthy by supporting your immune function and controlling inflammation. Certain types of good bacteria can also:
- Help your body digest food.
- Keep bad bacteria from getting out of control and making you sick.
- Create vitamins.
- Help support the cells that line your gut to prevent bad bacteria that you may have consumed from entering your blood.
- Breakdown and absorb medications.
This balancing act is naturally happening in your body all of the time. You dont actually need to take probiotic supplements to make it happen. Good bacteria is just a natural part of your body. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fiber every day helps to keep the number of good bacteria at proper levels.