Probiotics vs Antibiotics: Which One Is Best for Your Health?
Probiotics and antibiotics are both essential for our health in different ways. While antibiotics have been a lifesaver for many people by combating infectious bacteria, they can also have negative consequences on our gut health. In this article, we will take a closer look at the differences between these two types of bacteria and how they affect our health.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that have several health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These beneficial bacteria live in our gut and help us digest food, produce vitamins, and fight off harmful bacteria. Probiotics are found in several foods such as yogurt, kefir, tempeh, kimchi, and sauerkraut. They are also available in supplement form.
What Are Antibiotics?
Antibiotics are drugs that are designed to combat bacterial infections. They work by killing or slowing down the growth of bacteria. While antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections, they can also kill off good bacteria in our gut, leading to a disruption of the microbiome. This can result in several side effects such as diarrhea, yeast infections, and decreased immune function.
How Do Probiotics and Antibiotics Affect Our Health?
Probiotics and antibiotics have opposite effects on our gut health. Probiotics help to increase the number of beneficial bacteria in our gut, which enhances our immune function, aids in digestion, and produces important vitamins. Antibiotics, on the other hand, can decrease the number of beneficial bacteria in our gut, leading to a disruption in the microbiome and several negative side effects.
When Should You Use Probiotics?
Probiotics are beneficial in several situations where there is a need to restore the gut microbiome such as after a course of antibiotics, or in cases of diarrhea caused by an infection. Probiotics can also be used to prevent the onset of diarrhea when taking antibiotics.
When Should You Use Antibiotics?
Antibiotics should only be used when there is a bacterial infection that is causing illness or disease. Antibiotics are not effective against viral infections such as the common cold. Overuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance and can have negative impacts on gut health.
The Bottom Line
Probiotics and antibiotics have essential roles to play in our health, but it is important to use them correctly. While antibiotics are essential in treating bacterial infections, we should be mindful of their potential side effects on our gut health. Probiotics can help to restore the balance of our gut microbiome after a course of antibiotics or when our microbiome is disrupted. Ultimately, it is best to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.
