What Happens When You Take Too Many Probiotics: Potential Side Effects to Look Out For

Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are mostly known for being associated with digestive health, but research is emerging to show that they might have a positive effect on other aspects of health as well.

The popularity of probiotics has grown considerably in recent years, with a range of products now available that contain these beneficial bacteria. However, there is a risk of overdoing it with probiotic supplements, which can lead to potential side effects that should be taken into account.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are considered beneficial to health when consumed in adequate amounts. They are commonly found in fermented foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi, but they can also be taken as supplements.

Probiotics have been shown to have a range of potential health benefits, with most studies focused on their effects on digestive health. Some of the potential benefits include:

Reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Reducing the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea
Improving digestive function in people with ulcerative colitis and other digestive disorders
Boosting the immune system
Reducing the risk of certain allergies and autoimmune diseases
Improving mental health and cognitive function

What Happens When You Take Too Many Probiotics?

Probiotics are generally considered safe, and there is no upper limit on the amount that can be consumed. However, taking large amounts of probiotic supplements can lead to potential side effects, including:

Gas and bloating: Probiotics can produce gas as they ferment food in the gut. This can cause discomfort and bloating, particularly if large amounts of probiotics are consumed.
Constipation: In some cases, probiotic supplements can lead to constipation. This is because they can slow down the movement of food through the digestive system, which can lead to a build-up of waste in the colon.
Diarrhea: While probiotics can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, taking too many can actually cause diarrhea. This is because they can alter the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria that can cause diarrhea.
Infections: There have been rare reports of infections associated with probiotic supplements. While these are very rare, it is important to be aware of the potential risks, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Who Should Avoid Probiotic Supplements?

While most people can safely consume probiotics, there are some groups of people who may need to avoid them or take extra care:

People with weakened immune systems: Probiotics can pose a risk of infection in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or who are undergoing chemotherapy.
People with certain medical conditions: Probiotics may not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions, such as pancreatitis or short bowel syndrome.
People taking certain medications: Probiotics may interact with some medications, including immunosuppressants and antibiotics. If you are taking medication, it is important to speak to your doctor before taking probiotic supplements.

How Many Probiotics Should You Take?

The amount of probiotics you should take depends on the type and strain of bacteria being used, as well as the reason for taking them. In most cases, a daily dose of 1-10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) is considered sufficient. Higher doses may be required for specific conditions, such as severe diarrhea or ulcerative colitis.

If you are unsure about how many probiotics to take, it is important to speak to your healthcare provider. They can recommend the appropriate dose and strain of bacteria for your needs.