Should we all be taking probiotics? Dr Sarah Brewer, from The Pre- and Probiotics Information Panel gives her advice
As part of Gut Week 2011, Zest has been on a mission to clear up any confusion surrounding probiotic products. GP Dr Sarah Brewer, medic and part of the Pre and Probiotic Information Panel (PPIP) tells us four things we should know about prebiotics:
- Beat the bloat - probiotics can be used to improve digestive symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain, so no more feeling sluggish. Use them for the prevention of digestive discomfort, antibiotic-related gripes and travellers' diarrhoea too.
- The pre/pro dilemma - so you're standing in the yoghurt aisle and you're faced with an agonizing choice. Do I pick prebiotic or probiotic, and what is the difference anyway? Probiotics contain live good bacteria, which are essential for good gut health, whereas prebiotics contain fibres which feed the good bacteria already present in the gut. Prebiotics won't be very helpful unless you already have a reasonable number of good bacteria, and can cause problems with wind.
- Which brand? - New legislation being introduced to the UK will soon make it very difficult for you to decide which probiotic-type products have scientifically proven benefits - like Actimel and Activia - and products that don't. All this means is that you will have to be even more product savvy to ensure that you are keeping your gut as healthy as possible.
- Safe to use? - There have been no confirmed cases of any harmful effects from using probiotics, however, if you have pancreatic problems, have just had heart surgery or have a weakened immune system, you should consult your GP beforehand.
As with any symptom, if it has been present for more than two weeks without improvement, or you find blood in your stools you should contact your GP.
