The Dos and Don’ts of Pairing Probiotics with Antibiotics

Antibiotics are widely prescribed medications that are used to combat bacterial infections. While they are effective in killing harmful bacteria, they also kill the good bacteria in your gut that are essential for digestion, immunity and good overall health.

Probiotics, on the other hand, are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to your health, especially your digestive system. They are found in fermented foods and supplements, and can help to restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut after a course of antibiotics.

Dos

Take probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment: It is important to take probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment to help replenish the good bacteria in your gut that have been destroyed by the antibiotics. Choosing a probiotic supplement with multiple strains can be beneficial to ensure you are getting a variety of friendly bacteria.
Choose a high-quality probiotic supplement: Make sure to choose a high-quality probiotic supplement that contains live bacteria and enough colony-forming units (CFUs) to be effective. Look for a product that has been tested and certified by a third-party lab.
Eat fermented foods: Eating fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha can also help to replenish the good bacteria in your gut.
Consult your healthcare provider: It is important to talk to your healthcare provider before adding probiotics to your antibiotic regimen to make sure it is safe and effective for you.

Don’ts

Take antibiotics and probiotics at the same time: Avoid taking antibiotics and probiotics at the same time as they may interfere with each other’s effectiveness. It is recommended to take probiotics at least 2 hours before or after taking antibiotics.
Assume all probiotics are the same: Not all probiotics are created equal. Different strains of bacteria have different effects on the body, so it is important to choose a probiotic that is specifically targeted to your needs.
Overdo it on probiotics: While probiotics are generally considered safe, taking too much of them can lead to side effects like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and cramps. It is important to follow the recommended dosage on the supplement label or the advice of your healthcare provider.
Take probiotics if you have a weakened immune system: If you have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before taking probiotics, as they may not be appropriate for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, probiotics can be a valuable addition to your antibiotic regimen, but it is important to use them correctly to get the most benefit. Taking probiotics during and after antibiotic treatment, choosing a high-quality supplement, eating fermented foods, and consulting your healthcare provider are all important steps to help restore the balance of good bacteria in your gut. Avoiding taking antibiotics and probiotics at the same time, assuming all probiotics are the same, overdoing it on probiotics, and taking probiotics if you have a weakened immune system are all things to avoid when pairing probiotics with antibiotics.