Probiotics

[Dorian Gray]

I have a question. A friend (who is a nurse) suggested I look into probiotics. I've had a history of lactose intolerance, and she said that they could possibly help, but to discuss with my doctor.

I'm really unfamiliar with this type of healthy bacteria, brands, etc. (It seems that at vitamin stores there are a huge selection to choose from, and at some of our supermarkets, as well.)

Is there any scientific study on the benefits of these supplements. Are there any dangers? Is it just the new supplement fad? Or is this something that is worthwhile to take?

I suppose I should ask my doctor, especially since I am trying to get pregnant. But I was just looking for any general background information or anecdotal stories from anyone who has used them in the past! Thanks!

[tanyev]

1. I tried probiotics for a while and didn't notice much difference.

What has helped me immensely (stomach problems), is digestive enzymes. I first learned about them on this thread:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=245x67319

I don't have lactose problems, but I have seen some digestive enzymes that target lactose digestion.

Good luck!

[Dorian Gray]

5. Thank you!

I'll take a look and ask about them.

[ConcernedCanuk]

2. Acidophilus - a natural friendly bacteria - I discovered it in 85

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cures digestive problems from upset stomach (acid reflux) in MINUTES, and ends lifelong battles with cold sores, yeast infections and MUCH more.

I have a problem with antibiotics - told my GP last time he prescribed them for an unknown swelling in my leg that I always get diarrhea - but he just said sorta "oh well, that happens"

I threw out his script for drugs, and just took 3 Acidophilus caps a day for a week, and POOF! problem gone - no runs, no discomfort.

And as a natural occurring friendly bacteria in the body, it does not require taking it for a prescribed time.

Google it (Acidophilus) - it never even existed in our local pharmacy until shortly after I requested it in our wee town, now it is a stock item, and dozens of people here are now aware of it's benefits.

Powdered capsules that require refrigeration seem to work the best - I even gave to them to kids with sore throats/tummies - open the capsule and let the powder dissolve in the mouth, and let it slowly pass the throat - cured minor sore throats and upset tummies in minutes.

Taste? - you figure it out - kids called it "white chocolate"

[Fire_Medic_Dave]

4. You are right on most counts.

Those weren't cold sores they were aphthous ulcers. Acidophilus does stop aphthous ulcers, some stomach irritation and yeast infections. Those antibiotics don't just kill the bad bacteria they kill the good stuff too. Acidophilus helps restore it. I drink a glass of acidophilus milk every day and never have aphthous ulcers after being plagued with them my whole life. Yogurt also works pretty well.

David

[Dorian Gray]

6. That's the thing

I don't like yogurt, so I'm not getting any of the good stuff! I've read that Kim Chee (which I do love) also has some healthy bacteria from the fermentation process.

[Fire_Medic_Dave]

7. Try acidophilus milk.

It's low fat. Mayfield's is very good. Kroger's is pretty good also.

David

[Dorian Gray]

9. I will do!

Thanks for the suggestion!

[Celebration]

3. Culturelle

Has been studied in infants for colic, and the difference it made was pretty great. You can get it from the pharmacist at Walgreen's. I think I saw it at Walmart too (??).

You can look and see if there are any studies with Culturelle for anything else.

Having said that, it seems slightly more expensive than what you can get at the health food store. Like phone call plans, too many choices.

I *think* that there are some types of acidopholus that are actually not dairy based, but I am not sure.

Do you take lactase?

[Dorian Gray]

8. No..

I never remember to bring lactose drugs out with me, and it hits me randomly. Sometimes I'm fine, and then others I'm really not.

Anyhow, off to celebrate the win for tonight! I'll do some more research about this tomorrow!

[Warpy]

10. Some people can tolerate dairy products

if they take Lactozyme or any other lactase preparation an hour or so before they eat the dairy foods. Some people say it helps if they take it along with the dairy foods.

General probiotics won't work. It's a specific enzyme, lactase, that allows the body to break down milk sugar. Most of the world's population stops making that enzyme shortly after weaning in childhood.

[NickB79]

11. My stepfather says probiotic yogurt helps with his heartburn and acid reflux

He has been taking Tagamet for several years now, but just recently began to drink a probiotic yogurt smoothie drink each day. He says he's seen noticeable improvements.