Probiotics vs Antibiotics – Understanding the Difference
Probiotics and antibiotics are two types of medicinal substances that are vastly different in nature, yet often get confused with each other. In this blog, we will explore the differences between probiotics and antibiotics and their respective roles in our health.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for our digestive system. They exist naturally in our body and also present in some foods and supplements. Probiotics are beneficial in improving our digestive health, strengthening our immune system and preventing certain infections. These good bacteria lie in our gut and help breakdown the food we eat, produce certain vitamins and combat harmful bacteria and viruses that we ingest through food.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are a type of medication that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, regardless of whether it is good or bad for our body. They are prescribed to treat bacterial infections such as strep throat, urinary tract infections, and pneumonia. Antibiotics work by attacking the cell walls of bacteria, either killing them or stopping them from replicating further. They are also known to have side effects such as altering our gut microbiome which could lead to diarrhea, stomach upset, or in some rare cases, a yeast infection.
The Differences Between Probiotics and Antibiotics
The main difference between probiotics and antibiotics is their function and target. Probiotics contain live bacteria that are beneficial for the body, while antibiotics destroy bacteria, both the good and the bad. Probiotics help regulate the gut microbiome and protect us from harmful pathogens, whereas antibiotics are used to treat infections.
The Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics have numerous benefits for our health. They are known to regulate our digestive system, reduce inflammation, improve mental health, and boost our immune system. Probiotics can also help manage certain conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, urinary tract infections, viral infections, and allergy symptoms. They have also been linked to improvements in skin and heart health, as well as a lower risk of colorectal and breast cancers.
The Risks and Benefits of Antibiotics
While antibiotics are life-saving drugs when used appropriately, overuse can lead to drug resistance and negative impacts on the gut microbiome. Taking antibiotics can alter the natural balance of bacteria in our gut microbiome, leading to the growth of harmful bacteria or the reduction of beneficial ones. This can cause digestive upset, yeast infections and even make us more susceptible to certain infections. However, in cases where antibiotic treatment is required, the benefits of their use in treating a bacterial infection usually outweigh the risks.
Should You Take Probiotics and Antibiotics Together?
If you are prescribed antibiotics by your doctor, they may also recommend taking probiotics to prevent any gastrointestinal side effects that may occur. However, taking them at the same time can reduce the efficacy of the antibiotics, thus, they should be taken separately. It is recommended to wait a few hours after taking antibiotics before taking probiotics.
Conclusion
Probiotics and antibiotics are two vastly different substances that have very different functions and targets. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help improve our digestive health, strengthen our immune system and prevent certain infections. Antibiotics are medication prescribed to treat bacterial infections that kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria, both good and bad. While both have their benefits and risks, it is important to understand the differences between them so that you can make informed decisions when it comes to your health.
