Probiyotik Takviyeler: Kimler İçin Uygundur, Kimler İçin Değildir?

Today, there is a growing interest in probiotic supplements for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and preventing diseases. Probiotics are live microorganisms found in our bodies that are believed to have beneficial effects on our health. Over the past decade, numerous scientific studies have been conducted on the use of probiotics, which are claimed to have positive effects in various areas such as balancing gut flora, supporting immunity, and regulating digestion. However, it has also been scientifically demonstrated that probiotics are not suitable for everyone. In this article, we will discuss in detail who should and should not take probiotic supplements based on recent scientific research.

What Are Probiotics and What Are Their General Benefits?

The term “probiotic” is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as “live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host” [1]. Bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most commonly recognized probiotic strains. These bacteria naturally exist in our intestines and can help maintain the balance of the intestinal flora, protect us from infections, play a role in vitamin synthesis, and support the immune system [2].

Who Should Take Probiotic Supplements?

1. To Support Gut Health After Antibiotic Use

Antibiotic use can disrupt the gut flora, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, have been shown to be effective in preventing and treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea [3,4].

2. For Individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Studies on the effectiveness of probiotic supplements in alleviating IBS symptoms have yielded positive results. In particular, Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum have been found to be effective in reducing IBS symptoms [5,6].

3. For Individuals with Weakened Immune Systems

Recent studies have shown that probiotics strengthen the immune system and can reduce the frequency of infections such as upper respiratory tract infections. It has been demonstrated that probiotic use can shorten the duration of illnesses and reduce infection frequency [7].

4. For Those with Eczema and Allergic Diseases

Probiotic use has been shown to be effective in reducing the symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema). Numerous studies support the beneficial effects of probiotics in the management of atopic dermatitis, particularly in children [8].

5. For Those with Digestive Issues

Probiotics may provide relief for individuals with digestive issues such as constipation, bloating, and gas. Regular probiotic use may reduce the frequency and severity of digestive discomfort [9].

Who Should Avoid Probiotics?

1. Risk for Individuals with Suppressed Immune Systems

Probiotic use has been shown to cause serious bacterial infections in individuals who have undergone organ transplantation and are taking immunosuppressive drugs, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, or individuals with severe immune deficiency problems. Probiotic use in these individuals should be strictly monitored by a doctor [10].

2. Risky for Intensive Care Patients

Systemic infections associated with probiotic use have been reported in patients receiving intensive care. In particular, serious infections can occur as a result of bacteria found in probiotic capsules entering the bloodstream [11].

3. Risky for Patients with Central Venous Catheters

There is a risk of probiotic bacteria entering the bloodstream in patients with central venous catheters. In such cases, probiotic use is not recommended as it may lead to serious infections [12].

4. Dangerous for Patients with Acute Pancreatitis

The use of probiotics in patients with acute pancreatitis has been shown to worsen the course of the disease and increase the risk of complications. Therefore, probiotic supplements should be avoided in cases of acute pancreatitis [13].

5. Caution is Required in Premature Infants

Although probiotics may have potential benefits in premature infants, they have been reported to cause serious intestinal problems such as necrotizing enterocolitis in some cases. Therefore, probiotic use in premature infants should be done under medical supervision [14].

Conclusion and Recommendations

The positive effects of probiotic supplements on health are supported by scientific studies. However, it is not possible to say that probiotics are safe and beneficial for everyone. In particular, the use of probiotic supplements may pose serious risks in individuals with suppressed immune systems, those in intensive care, or those with serious health problems. Therefore, before using probiotics, individuals' health conditions should be considered, a physician should be consulted, and unconscious use should be avoided.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or health regimen.

References

[1] Hill C. et al. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2014;11(8):506-514.

[2] Sanders ME et al. Gut Microbes. 2019;10(2):204-217.

[3] Guo Q et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2019;4:CD004827.

[4] Goldenberg JZ et al. JAMA. 2018;320(5):499-500.

[5] Ford AC et al. Am J Gastroenterol. 2018;113:S1-S18.

[6] Dale HF et al. Nutrients. 2019;11(9):2048.

[7] Hao Q et al. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2015;2:CD006895.

[8] Huang R et al. Front Cell Infect Microbiol. 2017;7:392.

[9] Dimidi E et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2014;100(4):1075-1084.

10] Cohen PA. JAMA Intern Med. 2018;178(12):1577-1578.

[11] Yelin I et al. Nat Med. 2019;25(11):1728-1732.

[12] Kothari D et al. Clin Infect Dis. 2019;69(9):1449-1455.

[13] Besselink MG et al. Lancet. 2008;371(9613):651-659.

[14] Esaiassen E et al. Pediatrics. 2016;137(1):e20152684.