Possible side effects of probiotics that you must know
Living bacteria that provide health benefits, probiotics are useful when consumed in large amounts. They can be taken as supplements or consumed naturally through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha.
While there are many health benefits linked to taking probiotics, like lower risk of infections, improved digestion, there can also be side effects. Add to that, some people with serious illnesses or compromised immune systems may experience more severe complications.
Read along to know the most common side effects of probiotics and how to reduce them.
- Some people experience an increase in gas, bloating, constipation or thirst when they start taking probiotics. These side effects should go away within a few weeks.
- Fermented foods rich in probiotics naturally contain amines. Some people may experience headaches after eating these foods, and should instead opt for probiotic supplements.
- Some probiotics can produce histamine in the digestive tract. Those with histamine intolerance may want to avoid these strains of bacteria. When histamine levels rise, blood vessels dilate to bring more blood to the affected area. This process creates redness and swelling in the affected area, and can also trigger allergy symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, runny nose or trouble breathing.
- Milk sugar, or lactose, is also used in many probiotic supplements. Since a small number of people with lactose intolerance may experience unpleasant gas and bloat when consuming lactose-containing probiotics, they may want to choose lactose-free products.
- 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. Those at greatest risk for infection from probiotics include people with suppressed immune systems, prolonged hospitalizations, venous catheters or those who have undergone recent surgeries.
Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in large quantities. They can be taken as supplements, but also occur naturally in fermented foods.
