How to properly take probiotics. What are probiotics. Gut probiotics list. Inexpensive analogues of Linex How long can you drink probiotics

(also called eubiotics ) are living microorganisms that, in the normal state of the intestine, form it. These are the so-called non-pathogenic, that is, beneficial bacteria and yeasts that can counteract pathogenic or opportunistic microorganisms.

These intestinal microorganisms perform useful functions: provide the production, vitamin K , folic acid . Bacteria also determine the restoration of normal microflora in the mucous membranes of the body and in the gastrointestinal tract, protect the body from the influence of toxic elements, and strengthen.

That is why, with a change in the quality and quantity of the bacterial composition in the intestine, dysbiosis , and, as a result, a variety of diseases, both in children and in adult men and women.

It is very important to choose the right pills to restore the intestinal microflora. If a person has symptoms antibiotic-associated diarrhea you can buy probiotics because effective means are analogues of the drug Lineks. But still, many scientists argue that until today there have not been enough studies that would clearly confirm which probiotic of this group is the best for a certain disease or condition of the body.

Currently, several generations of drugs are being produced that normalize the intestinal microflora.

• First generation - monocomponent drugs, the composition contains only one strain of bacteria (, ).
• Second generation - self-eliminating antagonists ( Baktistatin , ).
• third generation - multicomponent drugs, which contain several strains of bacteria and additives at once ( and its analogues, Lebenin and etc.).
• fourth generation - bifid-containing adsorbed probiotics ( , ).

Also, a list of probiotic preparations can be compiled according to the genus of those bacteria that are part of them. The main probiotics (the names of drugs that are best known to patients) are produced in Russia. There are several foreign analogues - Bifiform , Enterol , and etc.

However, it is sometimes difficult to determine which probiotics are best, because about a fifth of expensive dietary supplements do not contain as many beneficial live microorganisms as the instructions indicate. Also, some strains cannot settle in the human intestine for a long time. In addition, it is better to buy domestic preparations, as imported probiotics often contain bacterial strains that are not adapted for people living in Russia or Ukraine.

Therefore, the guide for the purchase of the drug should not be user reviews about which medicines are better to buy, but the appointment of a specialist.

It should be taken into account for those who are prescribed probiotics that this is a remedy that, if used incorrectly, can lead to the development of serious complications and provoke cholelithiasis or urolithiasis , cytokine imbalance . Therefore, despite the fact that a large list of such drugs is sold without a prescription, a specialist should tell you what probiotics are and how to take them.

There is a wide range of probiotics for the gut. To choose the best probiotics for the intestines, it is necessary to take into account their composition. In another way, probiotics are called eubiotics. Discussing what eubiotics are, what they are, we define two types of bacteria that are part of drugs and support the microflora. That is, eubiotics are drugs that include bifidobacteria or lactobacilli. However, the list of eubiotic drugs is quite wide, and some of them include both lactobacilli and bifidobacteria ( Bifidolactobacterin and etc.).

Prebiotics

It should be taken into account when using prebiotics that this is a tool that is used to treat various pathological conditions of the intestinal flora. Prebiotics - These are drugs that are prescribed in the probiotic correction scheme as an additional treatment. Prebiotics for children and adults are prescribed for and other pathological conditions.

For children, it is usually used , as well as its analogues, pantothenic acid , inulin preparations etc. A more complete list of prebiotic preparations, as well as information on which one is best for children to drink, can be obtained from a doctor.

Biologically active additives

Biological products are Russian, imported and special - designed for children. About which of them should be preferred to adults or given to children, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Additives of domestic production	These are not drug substitutes, but health products that correct the intestinal microflora. The cheaper remedy Normoflorin B and L (prices - from 200 rubles), as well as Bifacil , Biovestin , Polybacterin , Euflorin , Vetom , liquid concentrates of bifidobacteria, Laminolact , Biovestin Lacto , normospectrum , noxygelon , Probionic .
Imported additives	Primadophilus , acidophilus , Probionix , Flora Dofilus , immunosymbiolact comp., Yogulact , , Kolifagina Pro .
Special dietary supplements for children	These are dietary supplements that have special formulas:, Preema Kids ; domestic production - Bifidumbacterins-multi for children,.

When using any of the additives ( Vetom , Probionix , Rela Life ) instructions for use must be carefully observed.

First generation probiotics

If the baby has developed dysbacteriosis of the 1st degree, you can correct the microflora with the help of medicine Bifidumbacterin , as well as the drug La whobacterin . They are also used for prophylactic purposes. Which drug to prefer, it is better to ask the pediatrician. But if, in addition to dysbacteriosis, a child has an acute intestinal infection, sorbents and other biological products should also be given to the baby. Application of the product it is advisable for colitis of the torpid course. Therefore, it is almost never used for infants. Newborns receive Bifido and Lakto preparations diluted in cool boiled water, they are diluted at the rate of 1 dose - 1 tsp. water. The infant receives the solution half an hour before or receiving the mixture two to three times a day.

Also, this list of monopreparations includes analogues of this drug, since these drugs include acidophilus bacillus, which demonstrates activity against opportunistic and pathogenic microbes. However, from the point of view of chronology, Biobacton is not included in the first generation, since it is a more modern medicine. It is recommended to give it to children from the first days of life, who have viral and bacterial infections of the intestine, dysbacteriosis due to intake.

Bifidumbacterin dry

Capsules, tablets, powder for solution are produced. The composition of the product includes living bacteria bifidum.

Lactobacterin dry

A lyophilisate for solution is produced. The composition contains acidophilic lactobacilli.

The drug is Russian-made, you can buy at a price of 100 rubles.

Colibacterin dry

A lyophilisate for solution is produced. The composition of the product includes dried live bacteria of Escherichia coli strain M17, gelatin-sucrose protective mixture.

A Russian-made drug can be bought in Moscow at a price of 240 rubles.

Biobacton dry

A lyophilisate for solution is produced. The composition of the product includes acidophilic lactobacilli.

Russian-made drug.

Narine

Produced in the form of capsules. There are also other types of this drug - Narine Forte, Narine milk concentrate. The composition includes an acidophilic form of lactobacterin.

Produced in Armenia, cost from 170 rubles.

Primadophilus

Produced in the form of capsules. There are also other forms of the drug. Contains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

Produced in the USA, the cost is from 700 rubles.

Second generation probiotics

Probiotics are preparations for microflora of the second generation, which contain yeast-like fungi and spores of bacilli. Despite the fact that these components are not part of a healthy microflora, after they enter the gastrointestinal tract, they perform the same functions as beneficial live bacteria, suppressing pathogenic microorganisms. As Wikipedia and other resources testify, these drugs are used primarily for children suffering from acute diarrhea non-infectious origin, as well as subcompensated dysbacteriosis and mild intestinal infections. You can take such medicines for no longer than 7 days, then live bacteria for children are also recommended for use.

In preparations and Flonivin BS contain bacillus spores B.Cereus IP 5832 , showing a wide range of antibacterial activity. Once inside the stomach, spores are practically not affected by gastric juice, their transition to vegetative forms occurs in the intestine. As a result, the microflora is restored.

In preparations Baktisporin and contains hay stick Bacillus subtilis 3H. It is a live active antagonistic strain, which is selected for the property of chromosomal resistance to rifampicin .

In the preparation Enterol contains saccharomycetes (yeast-like fungi). It is used to treat diarrhea that has developed as a result of antibiotic treatment. The activity of Enterol in relation to clostridia has been proven.

In the remedy Biosporin includes lichieniform bacilli.

The composition of the tool Eubicor includes inactivated yeast culture, dietary fiber, minerals. The drug is a dietary supplement.

Produced in capsules. The composition contains B.cereus IP 5832 freeze-dried spores.

Produced in France, you can buy at a price of 550 rubles.

Produced in the form of a suspension, lyophilisate. Contains an active strain Bacillus subtilis, which demonstrates resistance to rifampicin .

Produced in Russia, you can buy at a price of 350 rubles.

Biosporin

Produced in the form of tablets and lyophilisate. The composition includes aerobic saprophytes belonging to the genus Bacillus: B. subtilis and B. Licheniformis.

Russian-made drug, cost - from 250 rubles.

Enterol

Produced in the form of capsules and suspensions. Contains Saccharomyces Boulardii lyophilized, lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, gelatin, titanium dioxide.

French-made drug, cost - from 250 rubles.

Eubicor

The dietary supplement is produced in the form of a powder. Contains inactivated yeast culture Saccharomyces cerevisiae, dietary fiber, amino acids, vitamins, trace elements.

Means of Russian production, cost - from 350 rubles.

Third generation probiotics

The list of third-generation probiotics includes combined products consisting of several symbiotic strains of a certain type of bacteria ( Acylact , Acipol ) or different types bacteria ( Bifiform , ). In such a combination in one agent, bacteria act more actively. Also, some combined products differ in that they contain active ingredients that enhance the activity of the probiotic.

Yes, in the Acipola contains a polysaccharide of kefir fungus, in bififorme - lactulose, Bifilize - the monosaccharide lactose or lysozyme. Third-generation probiotics are used as a treatment for acute intestinal infections medium severity. In severe cases, such probiotic agents are prescribed for use in complex treatment.

Linex Sachet capsules for children, Linex capsules, Linex Baby powder are produced. The composition contains bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, enterococci.

The product is produced in Slovakia. Cost - from 350 rubles.

Bifiform

Several forms of the drug are produced: Kids chewable tablets, Baby drops, Compex, Kid. Enterococci are also part of the Baby remedy. In addition to these components, Baby and Kids products additionally contain vitamins , AT 6 .

The products are manufactured in Denmark. Cost - from 350 rubles.

Bifiliz

Produced in the form of rectal suppositories, lyophilisate for suspension. The product contains bifidobacteria bifidum and lysozyme.

Russian-made drug, cost - from 500 rubles.

Acipol

Produced in the form of capsules, tablets, lyophilisate. The composition contains acidophilic lactobacilli, kefir fungi.

Russian-made drug, cost - from 300 rubles.

Acylact

Produced in the form of tablets, suppositories, lyophilisate for suspension. The composition of the product contains acidophilic lactobacilli.

Russian-made drug, cost - from 150 rubles.

fourth generation probiotics

The probiotics of this group are Florin Forte , Probiform , . These are adsorbed probiotics, which include bifidobacteria immobilized on particles. The difference with conventional probiotics is that they provide a more pronounced protective effect.

Means prescribed in the case of acute respiratory viral infections, gastroenterological diseases with dysbacteriosis of varying degrees. The drug has a detoxifying effect. It should be noted that the drug is contraindicated in lactase deficiency, gastroenteritis, provoked by rotavirus infection.

Probifor - an effective medicine for detoxification and treatment of diarrhea. The drug contains ten times more bifidobacteria than Bifidumbacterin Forte. To date, the remedy is prescribed in the case of severe forms of acute intestinal infection as the only means of etiotropic therapy. It is also practiced to treat diseases of the colon, dysbacteriosis with this drug. When conducting studies on the effectiveness of Probifor in shigellosis, it turned out that it acts in the same way as fluoroquinolones, 3rd generation antibiotics, the list of which includes several names.

When taking Probifor, the same effect is observed in acute diarrhea in patients in intensive care, as with the combined use of Enterol and Bifiliz.

Other preparations containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are also known. This is a Super 8 probiotic, etc.

Produced in the form of capsules and powder. The composition contains bifidobacteria adsorbed on activated carbon.

Russian-made drug. Cost - from 150 rubles.

Probifor

Produced in the form of capsules and powder. The composition contains bifidobacteria bifidum adsorbed on activated carbon.

Russian-made drug. Cost - from 450 rubles.

Florin Forte

Produced in the form of capsules and powder. The composition contains lactobacilli, bifidobacteria bifidum, sorbed on activated carbon.

Russian-made drug. Cost - from 430 rubles.

Synbiotics (combined drugs)

A wide range of drugs is currently offered synbiotics . These are medicines that contain both probiotics and prebiotics. What is the difference between these components can be understood by determining what they are - probiotics and prebiotics.

Probiotics are non-pathogenic microorganisms used to restore the flora of human organs, while influencing detrimentally on pathogenic and opportunistic organisms.

Prebiotics are substances that are not absorbed in the small intestine and that stimulate the growth of normal intestinal microflora, creating favorable conditions for this process.

When taking synbiotics, it should be taken into account that in this case prebiotics and probiotics are contained in one preparation.

What is the difference between such drugs and conventional probiotics? After entering the intestines, probiotics normalize the microflora, however, after a while they can die, and the composition of the microflora deteriorates again. Prebiotics, on the other hand, nourish beneficial bacteria, ensuring their active reproduction and protection from external influences.

Sometimes these drugs are also called symbiotics . Before taking symbiotics, what it is, the doctor should explain to the patient. After all, the list of symbiotic drugs includes various drugs, and a specialist should choose the most suitable one.

biological additive Maxilac contains a prebiotic component - oligofructose , as well as nine cultures of beneficial bacteria: three cultures of bifidobacteria, 4 cultures of lactobacilli, 1 lactococcus, 1 streptococcus.

The reviews indicate that the drug is effective both in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and in diseases of the immune and respiratory systems.

Probiotic Maxilak is produced in Poland. The price of Maxilak is from 350 rubles. At the moment, there are no complete analogues of Maksilak.

Other synbiotics are also known: Lb17, Maltidophilus. The difference between such drugs and the features of their administration will be explained by the doctor.

Preparations with lactobacilli for the intestines, as well as drugs with bifidobacteria are widely used in gynecology. They are prescribed to women with an imbalance in the microflora of the vagina, as this violation leads to the development of a number of diseases.

There are different forms of such drugs, which contributes to the convenience of their use. The most common forms are vaginal and rectal. Oral forms, tablets, capsules, liquid probiotics are also used.

Vaginal eubiotics are produced in the form of topical suppositories. Used for treatment vaginal dysbacteriosis , inflammatory processes . They are also used in preparation for childbirth and surgical interventions. Such drugs can be prescribed if there is an imbalance in the microflora due to the use of antibiotics (, etc.) Reviews testify to the effectiveness of such treatment. The gynecological sphere involves the most frequent use of suppositories with lactobacilli. Also used vaginal capsules ( Ecofemin and etc.).

When choosing pills for dysbacteriosis or any other form of probiotic medicine for a child, you must definitely do it individually and take into account the recommendations of a specialist. In no case should you give your baby pills for dysbacteriosis after antibiotics, since the choice of drugs from a large list depends on a number of factors. The doctor must take into account the type of lesion, the severity of the disease, the degree of microflora disturbance, etc.

Properly selected probiotics provide not only the restoration of intestinal microflora in children, but also a general strengthening, improvement of digestion and the process of absorption of nutrients. However, despite the fact that the microflora in the child's body is often negatively affected by pathogenic bacteria, drugs to restore the intestinal microflora in children should be used only if indicated. It is extremely wrong to find out from user reviews the name of live bacteria for the intestines for children and give them to the child. It is important to tell the doctor about the baby's diseases (lactose intolerance, etc.). It is necessary to take into account the differences in drugs, their composition, etc.

Live bacteria for the intestines are necessary for the baby after treatment antibiotics . Regardless of which antibacterial drugs are used (5th generation antibiotics, a list of which is sometimes offered by a doctor, antibiotics in suspension for children, the list of which is very wide, etc.), microflora imbalance is always a consequence of such treatment.

Therefore, live bacteria for the intestines, the name of which was indicated by the doctor in the prescription, must be given to the baby. But before you buy live bacteria for the intestines at a pharmacy, you should familiarize yourself with the recommendations when taking such drugs in different ages. Information on this subject can also be found on the Probiotic.ru website and other resources.

How to take probiotics?

For newborns

Probiotic for children, photo

If newborns, premature babies, and infants are prescribed beneficial bacteria for the intestines, the drugs should be used strictly on the recommendation of a specialist who will tell you in detail about the list of drugs and their analogues with prices. Newborns are often prescribed liquid probiotics. In order to stop diarrhea, improve the physical condition of the baby and its development, as well as for constipation, the following medicines are recommended:

• , Acipol , , Lactobacterin (the course of admission is 2-4 weeks);
• Bifiliz (1-2 weeks);
• Probifor (up to 10 days).

At respiratory ailments (pneumonia , SARS , false croup ) the same medicines are recommended, but they should be taken no more than 5 days.

At viral hepatitis you need to give 5-10 doses of Bifidumbacterin forte 3-6 times a day or 1 dose of Probifor 2-3 r per day. Treatment lasts up to 7 days. Prema Kids Supplement: When using Prema Kids, the instruction provides for taking it within 1 month.

Allergy and dermatosis . As a rule, children are prescribed Lactobacterin, Atsilakt, Bifidumbacterin Forte for up to 3 weeks, or Probifor prebiotic for up to 7 days. Detailed information you can find out which allergy pills are taken, cheap analogues and prices at an appointment with a specialist.

Diabetes - in this case, a doctor will help you choose the best eubiotics. As a rule, it is recommended to take probiotics of different generations in a course of about 6 weeks.

For prevention infectious diseases - seasonal courses of drugs Bifidumbacterin Forte, Bifiliz two to three times a year.

In order to correct dysbacteriosis, the choice of the drug is carried out depending on the severity of the condition (from 1 to 3 degrees). Tablets for the intestines and stomach, the list of which offers modern pharmacology, should be chosen taking into account a number of rules:

• If the analysis for dysbacteriosis confirms the deficiency of lactobacilli, it is not necessary to prescribe a drug containing them. To correct dysbiosis, as a rule, preparations with bifidobacteria are prescribed, since it is bifidobacteria that form the microflora of the colon and are able to effectively overcome dysbacteriosis.
• Means that contain only lactobacilli or bifidobacteria are used for the intestines only for mild infections. Bifidobacteria, the price of which is relatively low, are also effective in the first degree of dysbacteriosis.
• In more severe cases, not ordinary bifidobacteria for children should be used, but preparations of the third and fourth generations - Bifiform, Probifor, Bifidumbacterin Forte. At the same time, Probifor is recommended for use with infectious enterocolitis , severe colitis.
• The use of funds for children with lactobacilli is best combined with bifid-containing drugs. Also prescribe lacto- and bifidobacteria in one preparation. Preparations containing bifidobacteria and lactobacilli should be prescribed individually.
• With ulcerative lesions, acute infectious gastroenteritis, probiotics containing lactobacilli are indicated: Acipol, Gastrofarm, Acylact Lactobacterin, Biobacton, Linex.
• With caution and strictly according to indications, coli-containing agents are prescribed to children: Bifikol, Bioflor, Kolibakterin.

How and for how long to use each such remedy depends on the generation of the probiotic:

If preparations for the intestinal microflora when taking antibiotics or infectious diseases do not produce the desired effect, it is necessary to change the treatment tactics. In this case, a specialist may prescribe a new treatment regimen, which also, if necessary, includes antifungal agents, intestinal antiseptics, etc.

When are probiotics used for children?

Currently, probiotics for children are used for such diseases and conditions:

• diarrhea caused by antibiotic drug . For children in this case, it is desirable to use a probiotic drug. This tool contains Saccharomyces boulardii. Preparations containing this component stop diarrhea and prevent relapses.
• diarrhea that is provoked infections . If childhood illnesses are associated with rotavirus infection, it is best to take medicines containing lactobacilli Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei. Preparations with lactobacilli should be prescribed by a doctor.
• irritable bowel syndrome . To normalize the process of defecation, small patients are prescribed monocomponent , bifidobacteria combined probiotics.

conclusions

Thus, treatment with probiotics is relevant for many diagnoses for both adults and children. It has been proven that the use of such drugs is advisable in many conditions not associated with intestinal diseases. After all, these funds improve metabolism, provide an immunomodulatory effect.

It is important to have an understanding of eubiotics in order to determine what to drink along with antibiotics for dysbacteriosis. But only a doctor should individually prescribe what to take when taking antibiotics for dysbacteriosis in order to get the most pronounced effect. At the same time, often cheap drugs are effective and help to overcome the manifestations of dysbiosis. However, you should not look for cheaper analogues if the doctor says that the child should be given any particular drug. Those who have a "Health Card", the list of drugs can find out and buy the necessary ones directly on the site, choosing from the list of drugs. That is, the basis for the purchase and use of any drug should not be the price or super rating, but the appointment of a doctor, which will significantly increase the likelihood of the effectiveness of using a probiotic.

Education: She graduated from the Rivne State Basic Medical College with a degree in Pharmacy. Graduated from Vinnitsa State Medical University. M.I. Pirogov and an internship based on it.

Work experience: From 2003 to 2013 she worked as a pharmacist and head of a pharmacy kiosk. Awarded with certificates and distinctions for long-term and conscientious work. Articles on medical topics were published in local publications (newspapers) and on various Internet portals.

Probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, as well as kefirs and yogurts with probiotics, lactobacilli and live yogurt cultures that have a beneficial effect on the body - how to figure out which probiotic is better? How to figure out which drug is most useful for the digestive system of adults and children and has the most beneficial effect on the body, preferably at a not very high price?

Which of the extensive list of prebiotics and other additives presented on the windows of pharmacies combines bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, a probiotic and a prebiotic in one drug, is it necessary to take prebiotics to maintain the intestinal microflora against the background of antibiotic therapy, and isn’t it easier to limit ourselves to “live” kefir?

What are probiotics?

The great scientist I. I. Mechnikov is considered the person who drew the attention of physicians to the first probiotics. His research on the immune system and factors affecting the body's defenses was awarded the Nobel Prize.

The reason for the detailed study was the observation of miners in Bulgaria, who were distinguished by unusual longevity. After examining aspects of life, Mechnikov suggested that the main factor in longevity is the use of a fermented milk product that matures from milk in a leather container used by workers as a "thermos". At the end of the working day, milk under the influence of bacteria turned into a yogurt mass. Mechnikov made observations and made sure that the microorganisms that develop in the dairy environment have an extremely positive effect on health. It is these bacteria in various strains and cultures that are today called probiotics (eubiotics).

Do not confuse probiotics and prebiotics: prebiotics include "food" for the development of bacteria: mainly coarse fiber. Probiotics are existing or specially bred cultures of live bacteria that have a positive effect on the intestinal microflora. The very name of a probiotic is assigned only to those microorganisms whose benefits to human health have been proven by researchers and confirmed by various experiments. As a rule, bacterial cultures are meant by probiotics, although other types, such as yeast cultures, can be found among the microorganisms that have confirmed their benefits. But in most cases, probiotics are types of bacteria that live in the gut.

The gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by a wide variety of bacteria, both pathogenic and beneficial to the body. The total number of bacteria in the human body is several times higher than the number of cells, and if we estimate the volume of these microorganisms, it turns out that the mass of an adult belongs to him - and his symbiont bacteria, and there are up to 3 kilograms of bacteria in the body of an adult!

Most of the bacteria are found in the intestinal cavity. Beneficial microorganisms are involved in the process of food processing, isolation and synthesis of vitamins, reduce the risk of reproduction of pathogenic flora and, in general, help maintain the level of immune protection.

If the pathogenic flora multiplies faster and suppresses beneficial bacteria, this leads to a wide variety of consequences, ranging from stool disorders to ulcerative colitis, immune suppression, a general deterioration in well-being up to long-term chronic disease states.

Various diseases, an uneven and inadequate diet, and prolonged antibiotic therapy can lead to a decrease in the number of beneficial bacteria. This state of disequilibrium in bacterial flora called dysbacteriosis.

Dysbacteriosis as a diagnosis

In Russian medicine, you can often hear that as a result of a patient’s examination, the disease “dysbacteriosis” is diagnosed. This point of view is considered an indicator of the incompetence of a specialist: dysbacteriosis as a diagnosis is absent in medical science. However, there is dysbacteriosis as a syndrome, while it is pointless to treat it without determining the cause provoking the condition: disease, pathology or antibiotic therapy.

Accordingly, the intake of probiotic preparations should always be accompanied by an understanding of what caused the imbalance of the intestinal microflora, and what needs to be done so that the intake of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics and other microflora-improving components does not turn into lifelong maintenance therapy.

In a healthy organism, the balance of the intestinal microflora is a transient phenomenon that passes on its own within a few days, and it is not worth correcting it without a pronounced need: it is impossible to determine by symptoms and sensations which bacteria are missing, and which cultures prevail in this moment in the gastrointestinal tract. In most cases, the natural balance is restored on its own, and the appointment of probiotics and the assessment of their interaction with other medicines should be handled by a specialist.

The mechanism of action of probiotics

The effect of probiotics on the body is based on two mechanisms: firstly, they help in suppressing the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, and secondly, they partially take over the functions of beneficial bacteria, the lack of which is noted when the intestinal flora is imbalanced.

How exactly do probiotics help the body? Thanks to their action, beneficial microorganisms can perform the following functions:

• the production of lactic acid, which suppresses the growth of fungi and other pathogenic flora;
• produce antibodies to certain types of viruses, thereby strengthening immunity;
• synthesize vitamins of group B and vitamin K, which are important for the physical and mental health of a person;
• increase the absorption of calcium, iron, carbohydrates and other nutrients and microelements;
• perform the function of an infectious barrier on the intestinal mucosa, preventing the penetration of infection into the bloodstream;
• participate in the destruction of toxins, poisonous waste products of some pathogenic microorganisms;
• help prevent the development of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• enhance the effect in the complex therapy of diseases of the genitourinary tract, digestive system, etc.

Dairy products with probiotics as a replacement for drugs

The studies studied the effects on the body of ordinary kefir and kefir with live cultures of bacteria. The experiment with groups of volunteers was carried out using the double placebo method: neither the participants nor the scientists knew before summing up which group received an enriched product, and which regular kefir, which acted as a placebo drug.

According to the results of the experiment, it turned out that the effect on the body of the placebo and the fortified product was exactly the same: standard fermented milk products were not fortified enough to bring tangible benefits. The low concentration of live cultures, in addition to the insufficient amount degraded during passage through the stomach in hydrochloric acid and acids in the duodenum, cannot be attributed to therapeutic doses of probiotics.

At the same time, experiments in which encapsulated preparations were used are considered successful studies proving the effectiveness of probiotics and their positive effect on the body.

The composition of probiotics produced in the form food additives and drugs, is regulated: the number of beneficial microorganisms is added in accordance with the standards. Products include bacteria according to a less strict technology, in which the quantitative and qualitative indicators of probiotic inclusions are not controlled.

In accordance with scientific research, the European Center for Food Safety has identified kefirs and yoghurts enriched with live cultures as a food with no additional effect on the body. Such products cannot be used for therapy in place of encapsulated preparations.

Are probiotics harmful?

Like all medications, probiotics have limitations, contraindications, and side effects. So, among the common side effects, there is transient flatulence, increased gas formation, ending after a course of drugs.

Some experts are wary of prescribing probiotics to children in infancy, there are contraindications for the elderly (not in all cases), as well as the need to consult a specialist about the combination of probiotics and other drugs: in some combinations, taking bacterial cultures may enhance or level the effect of other drugs, and vice versa, some groups of drugs significantly reduce the effectiveness of probiotics.

What diseases are treated with probiotics?

Probiotics have a direct impact on the composition of the intestinal microflora by stimulating the reproduction of beneficial anaerobic microorganisms and reducing the number of potentially dangerous bacteria. Influencing the balance in the gastrointestinal ecosystem, they stimulate the immune mechanism of the gastrointestinal mucosa and non-immune while reducing the population of pathogens.

This mechanism helps to reduce the manifestations of diarrhea, both frequency and quality, which is the most recognized and common reason for the use of probiotics.

In some strains of probiotic microorganisms, the effect of stimulating the body's immune responses was noted, in others, in particular, in Escherichia coli Nessle, an analgesic and reducing flatulence effect was expressed in the treatment of ulcerative colitis and.

Therapy for intestinal disorders

Strains with proven efficacy in infectious diseases include Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei and Saccharomyces cerevisidae. Their use can reduce the severity of indigestion and reduce the duration of diarrhea by a day or more.

In the prevention of diarrheal disorders, probiotics with the following strains are used: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei and Saccharomyces boulardii.
The use of probiotics has also been proven effective in the complex therapy of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

In the treatment of functional constipation, the main direction is the normalization of the intestinal microflora, for which strains of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are included in the diet.

Use for gastritis caused by Helicobacter pylori

One of the problems in the treatment of gastritis of infectious etiology is the development of resistance to various groups of antibiotics in the pathogenic agent Helicobacter pylori. At the same time, the side effects of antibiotic drugs significantly reduce the desire of patients to use medications.

Combination therapy with antibiotics and eubiotics helps not only to reduce side effect antibacterial agents, but also to stabilize the barrier function of the stomach, reduce inflammation of the mucous membrane, and also suppress the activity of Helicobacter pylori.

Probiotics: list of drugs

Among probiotics (or eubiotics), medicines and dietary supplements are distinguished. Prebiotic medicines include the following:

• Acylact;
• Bifiform;
• Enterol;
• Bifidumbacterin;
• Acipol;
• Hilak;
• Lactobacterin and analogues, etc.

Initially, in the lists of probiotic preparations, one could only find products with bacterial monocultures. At the moment, there are few monocomponent preparations, these are mainly dietary supplements (Bifidumbacterin, Colibacterin, Lactobacterin and the so-called starter cultures of living cultures, for example, Narine). Most modern drugs that have a probiotic effect are sorbed probiotics, specially processed to resist the aggressive gastric environment and include from 2 to 4 strains of beneficial microorganisms.

So, Linex and approved Linex analogues include three different strains of bacteria:

• strain of acidophilic lactobacilli Lactobacillus acidophilus sp. L. gasseri;
• culture of bifidobacteria infantis (Bifidobacterium infantis var. liberorum);
• Enterococcus faecium strain.

Second-generation probiotics can contain not only bacterial cell culture, but also protozoan fungi. Mushrooms are not normally found in the intestinal microflora, however, when they enter it, they have an overwhelming effect on pathogenic microbes. Such eubiotics include Bactisuptil, Sporobacterin, Enterol and others.

The third generation of drugs is combined, with an increased number of different cultures (Linex Immuno, Acipol, Acilact, Linex forte). Probiotics of the fourth generation as an additive contain a sorbent - Activated carbon. These include forms of probiotics Forte (Bifidumbacterin, Florin, as well as Probiform and other drugs.

In some cases, the drug and the dietary prebiotic are the same variant of the complex of bacterial culture strains produced in two types due to legislative restrictions in different countries. For example, the probiotic drug Enterogermina, which can be found in pharmacies in Russia and the CIS countries, and the dietary supplement Enterogermina are completely identical and are produced by the same manufacturer.

List of probiotics - dietary supplements

Many probiotic preparations are available in the form of biologically active food supplements, and these are also probiotics. List of the most common dietary supplements:

• Bifiform - probiotics for children in release forms for different age periods Baby, Malysh, drug for adults Bifiform Complex;
• Vitaflor;
• Biovestin-lacto;
• Normoflorin and others.

Dietary supplements, or "food" supplements, are distinct from medicines a simplified scheme for testing the effectiveness and obtaining a certificate. As a rule, probiotic dietary supplements also combine several strains of various microorganisms. So, the following biologically active additives, considered in some cases as analogues of Linex, are contained in a daily dose for an adult:

• Bifiform complex: bifidobacteria and lactobacilli - from 1,000 million bacterial cells of each strain;
• Selenopropionix: selenium, Propionibacterium freudenreichii strain, lactobacilli at least 1,000 million, inulin.

There are monocomponent dietary supplements related to probiotics: a cheap preparation Liquid Bifidobacterium Concentrate contains cultures of Bifidobacterium longum bifidobacteria. The dietary supplements Iodpropionix, Selenpropionix are based on the bacteria culture Propionibacterium freudenreichii.

Different strains of bacteria have different functions and mechanisms of action, therefore, when selecting substitutes and choosing the best probiotics, it is necessary to compare the presence of certain strains of bacterial cells and quantitative indicators. This is how analogues of Bifidumbacterin, Lactobacterin, Linex, analogues and substitutes for other combinations are selected. That is why probiotics, the list of which is quite extensive, it is better to choose together with a specialist. The best probiotic is the one that will effectively deal with the existing problem in a particular patient. When prescribing, the doctor selects the necessary combination of bacterial cell cultures, their quantitative and qualitative ratio, doses and frequency of administration, and the course of treatment.

Probiotics for children and adults: Linex analogues and substitute preparations

For children, probiotics are in most cases recommended as a means of supporting and correcting the intestinal microflora in infectious, antibiotic-associated diarrhea or functional bowel dysfunctions associated with general immaturity of the digestive system.

In the probiotic market for children, you can find a wide selection of both medical products and nutritional supplements. Depending on the appointment of a specialist and the cost of drugs, you can choose analogues of the prescribed probiotic. What do you need to pay attention to?

If we take a drug common in pediatric practice, for example, Linex, the analogue (instruction for the use of a substitute drug) should for the most part correspond to the composition and dosage of Linex. Linex contains 3 strains of lactic acid cultures - bifidobacteria, lactobacilli and lactic acid non-toxigenic enterococcus. There are no complete analogues of this drug on the market, but there are funds that can to some extent replace the action of Linex.

The conditional analogues of Linex include the following drugs:

• Bifiform containing bifidobacteria and enterococci, which helps to restore balance in the intestinal microflora, prevents and relieves digestive disorders, enhances local immune reactions, is also prescribed for colpitis, vaginosis, chronic functional constipation;
• Rioflora, a preparation containing a balanced complex of lacto- and bifidobacteria;
• Biovestin-lacto, a prebiotic agent containing bifidobacteria of the adolescentis strain, which affects the restoration of intestinal microflora in antibiotic-associated disorders, respiratory viral infections, long-term hormone therapy, radiation, allergic reactions to food, vitamin deficiencies, especially group B;
• the drug Bifido-Normalizer contains lacto- and bifidobacteria in the culture, which causes a regulatory effect on the composition of the intestinal microflora. The drug is prescribed for dysfunctions of the gastrointestinal tract, intestinal infections, colonization of the intestinal cavity by fungal microflora after antibiotic therapy, for disorders associated with a violation of the regimen and diet, food allergies, courses of chemotherapy and radiation therapy;
• Polybacterin belongs to the group of combined probiotic agents containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, the drug is prescribed for disorders, diseases and pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract to restore the intestinal microenvironment and maintain local immunity;
• Symbiolact Compositum contains three different cultures: strains of lactobacilli, bifidobacteria and lactococcus, which causes a compensatory effect of the eubiotic in case of lactic acid bacteria deficiencies associated with diseases and pathologies of the digestive system, as well as general diseases of the body;
• Flora Dofilus with a complex of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria helps to normalize bowel function.

It must be remembered that eubiotic preparations and dietary supplements have contraindications in case of individual intolerance to the components that make up their composition. When taking all probiotic products, the following rules must be observed:

• the average course of taking eubiotics is from 2 to 4 weeks, due to the cumulative effect of the drugs;
• with the simultaneous appointment of antibacterial and probiotic agents, it is necessary to pay attention to the mutual action: in most cases, sequential administration is optimal: first antibiotics, then drugs that restore the intestinal microflora. Otherwise, the probiotic effect is suppressed by the action of antibacterial agents;
• probiotic preparations have a strictly limited shelf life due to the properties of strains;
• in the absence of a pronounced effect, you should contact a specialist for the selection of a drug with a different complex of bacterial cultures.

Perhaps there is no such person who has not undergone a course of treatment with antibacterial drugs during his life. Antibiotics help treat pathologies caused by a bacterial infection. Thanks to modern antimicrobial drugs, humanity has been able to defeat those diseases that would have inevitably led to death 100 years ago.

However, not everything is so smooth in terms of the use of antibiotics. Their active components destroy not only pathogenic bacteria and fungi, but also harm the intestinal microbiocenosis and beneficial microflora on the mucous membranes. While taking antibiotics, some of the “necessary” bacteria die under the influence of drugs. As a result, the general condition of the gastrointestinal tract worsens, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, urogenital and skin pathologies develop.

Why you need probiotics

According to medical statistics, almost 1/3 of patients taking antibiotics experience symptoms of antibiotic-associated diarrhea resulting from the destruction of beneficial intestinal microflora. But even those who have not noticed acute gastrointestinal symptoms may experience unpleasant consequences after a while. To prevent this from happening, doctors prescribe probiotics while taking antibiotics.

Probiotics are called "living medicines" because they contain strains of live non-pathogenic microorganisms:

• bifidobacteria;
• lactobacilli;
• colibacteria;
• yeast-like fungi;
• aerococci;
• enterococci.

Probiotics during a course of antibiotics have a beneficial effect not only on gastrointestinal tract, but also for the whole organism as a whole:

• create the necessary level of acidity, at which the microbiocenosis develops well, and pathogenic microorganisms die;
• restore normal microflora on the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract;
• produce useful substances - enzymes, hormones and vitamins;
• strengthen the patient's immune system;
• protect the body from the effects of toxins;
• regulate water-salt metabolism in the gastrointestinal tract;
• stimulate intestinal peristalsis.

But how can adults drink these useful preparations- from the first day of taking antibacterial medicines or is it better after antibiotics? And what are the best probiotics? These questions are of concern to many who are faced with bacterial infection and forced to undergo antimicrobial therapy.

Probiotic regimen

When it comes to how to take probiotics, you should listen to the opinion of doctors. They strongly recommend starting to drink probiotics with antibiotics at the same time - every doctor, when prescribing antibacterial drugs, writes at least one probiotic in the prescription. In many cases, when it is necessary to prevent the adverse effects of toxic drugs on the intestines, it is necessary to continue taking probiotics after antibiotics. In any case, the duration of therapy is determined by the attending physician.

Advice! There are situations when a patient starts taking antibiotics, but there are no medicines with bifidus or lactobacilli in the nearest pharmacy. There is nothing wrong with that - you can drink probiotics during treatment with antimicrobial agents from any day, if certain circumstances prevented you from doing it right away.

What is the best probiotic

Only the attending physician is able to unambiguously answer which probiotic is better. He knows the characteristics of the prescribed antibiotics, what adverse effects can be after taking them, and which drugs are best suited to normalize the microflora in a particular case. In addition, the doctor considers clinical picture disease and health status of the patient.

There are several generations of drugs that normalize the intestinal microflora, but all of them can be divided into two categories:

• single-component - contain one strain of bacteria;
• multicomponent - include a combination of several strains of beneficial microorganisms, as well as various additives.

Which of them are the best? Of the variety of drugs that can be seen on pharmacy shelves, doctors prefer multicomponent probiotics, because they include several types of bifidus and lactobacilli.

When choosing medicines to restore microbiocenosis, doctors advise you to follow simple rules:

• Be sure to consult a doctor, regardless of whether the medicine is intended for adults or for children.
• Buy medicines manufactured by well-known pharmaceutical companies - they produce quality products that have been proven by long-term studies.
• Check the expiration date and do not use the drugs after it has expired.

In addition, capsules with microorganisms must be acid-resistant, otherwise the shell will dissolve in the stomach and the bacteria will not enter the intestines, which means that the desired effect from taking probiotics will not be. Acid-resistant shells dissolve in the alkaline environment of the intestine after 3-4 hours, when the capsule has already reached its “destination”.

List of probiotics

Modern pharmaceutical companies produce a huge number of probiotics in different dosage forms. These can be dry powders that are diluted with water, liquid forms or capsule preparations. They also differ in price: domestic medicines are cheaper, analogues of imported production are much more expensive.

The first generation of probiotics are monocomponent products that contain one strain of beneficial bacteria. The list of "live drugs" in this group consists of several popular items:

• Bifidumbacterin;
• Lactobacterin;
• Colibacterin;
• Biobacton.

Second generation drugs contain yeast-like fungi and spore bacilli. These microorganisms are not part of a typical intestinal microbiocenosis, but displace pathogenic bacteria. The drugs in this group include:

• Baktisporin;
• Baktisubtil;
• Biosporin;
• Sporobacterin;
• Flonivin;
• Enterol;
• Esterozhermina.

The third group is represented by polycomponent and combined agents. They include several strains of bacteria at the same time, as well as prebiotic additives that create optimal conditions for the growth of colonies of beneficial microorganisms. The list of these drugs is quite large:

• Linex;
• Acipol;
• Acylact;
• Bifilong;
• Bifiform;
• Bifiliz;
• Polybacterin;
• Symbiter;
• Khilak-forte.

Medicines in this group are often prescribed to be taken with antibiotics to prevent pathologies of the digestive tract in adults and children.

Preparations of the fourth group effectively inhibit pathogenic microflora, preventing its reproduction. This occurs due to the effect of sorbed bacteria on the microbiocenosis. As a result of therapy, the symptoms of diarrhea and pain disappear. The most famous drugs in this group:

• Florin;
• Probifor;
• Bifidumbacterin forte.

Important! The list of drugs is provided for informational purposes only. Any medicine should be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the specific disease and the patient's health status.
Some "live medicines" do not combine well with certain types of antibiotics. Even a relatively safe remedy for normalizing the intestinal microflora can harm the body and provoke flatulence, bloating, constipation, urinary or cholelithiasis, obesity, and allergic reactions.

Supplements with beneficial bacteria

In addition to the medicines mentioned above, there is a huge list of drugs produced as dietary supplements - dietary supplements. Pharmaceutical companies around the world have put a lot of effort into developing effective formulations that prevent and eliminate problems with the digestive system due to the use of antibiotics:

• acidophilus;
• Biovestin;
• Bifacil;
• Yogulact forte;
• Laminolact;
• Normobact;
• Normoflorin;
• Polybacterin;
• Primadophilus;
• Rela life;
• RioFlora Balance Neo;
• SymbioLact pur;
• Flora-Dophilus;
• Eubicor;
• Euflorin;
• Bifidophilus Flora Force;
• Ecobion Balance of microflora;
• Ecofemin Microflora balance.

Currently, there is a fierce debate between supporters and opponents of probiotic therapy. And if there is controversy over the treatment of intestinal infections, then the effectiveness of taking "live drugs" to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea has been proven in official studies. The well-known pediatrician, doctor of the highest category E. O. Komarovsky, whose reputation and authority are not in doubt, is of the same opinion.

Rules for taking probiotics with antibiotics

It is not enough to know which in this particular case will be the best probiotic. You need to remember how to take it correctly so that the benefits of taking the drug are tangible. Rules for the use of "live drugs" are simple:

• Carefully read the instructions for the drug, follow the dosage requirements, strictly adhere to the recommendations when to take probiotics. So, some drugs are best taken with meals, others before meals, and others after a certain time after a meal.
• Antibiotics and probiotics should be taken at different times of the day, and the interval between them should be at least 2 hours. For example, if the patient drank Amoxicillin or at 8 am, then Linex or Bifiform can be taken no earlier than 10-00.
• You can not drink "live medicines" with hot water. The temperature of food and drinks should not exceed 45 degrees, otherwise the beneficial bacteria will die.
• It is advisable to simultaneously consume foods that enhance the effect of probiotics during and after taking antibiotics. These include bread, pickled cucumbers, sauerkraut, tea mushroom, natural sourdough yoghurts, cheese, buttermilk, cottage cheese, acidophilus kefir, soy sauce and other products.
• During therapy with drugs with bifidus and lactobacilli, you should not get carried away with cigarettes and alcohol, but it is better to completely abandon them. It is also necessary to reduce the consumption of strong tea, coffee, spicy and fried foods.

Doctors strongly recommend continuing to drink the prescribed medicine after taking antibiotics, as the microbiocenosis will recover for several more weeks. The period of treatment prescribed by the doctor must not be stopped ahead of time, even if there is a significant improvement in well-being.

Interesting! Some food products contain probiotics in the form of supplements. It can be cheeses, yogurts, fruit drinks and even chocolate. On the packaging of such products, there will necessarily be an inscription like “contains active cultures”.

Conclusion

The benefits of probiotics are undeniable. Despite the fact that these drugs have a lot of opponents, numerous patient reviews indicate the effectiveness of drugs to restore the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract. A good effect will be if taken together with antibiotics from the first day of therapy. The price range for medicines and dietary supplements in this group is quite large. It is not necessary to take medicine at an exorbitant price - even an inexpensive drug will help to avoid the negative effects of antimicrobials. The main thing is to drink probiotics from the first day and agree on a treatment regimen with your doctor.

Are you taking probiotic supplements or have you decided to start taking them to improve your overall health? Probiotics can be beneficial for most people. They are often used to improve conditions from diarrhea to eczema. Read on to learn how to take probiotics the right way.

There are many probiotic supplements on the market for a variety of purposes, but how do you take probiotics before or after a meal? We will help you decide this answer for yourself throughout this article.

What are probiotics?

When most people talk about probiotics, they are usually referring to supplements that contain live "good" microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that are meant to improve health. These microorganisms can also be found in many foods, including yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and other fermented foods.

You may be wondering why someone intentionally consumes bacteria. I know I grew up under the impression that bacteria are germs and germs are bad. You avoid bacteria, don't you? As it turns out, some bacteria are indeed incredibly important to the function of our bodies.

The so-called "good" bacteria found in probiotic preparations are important for the health of our digestive systems, skin, mouth, etc.

These bacteria may also be critical to our development. Studies done on animals that were raised in a completely "fetal" environment found that the animals did not develop fully. The absence of bacteria can actually cause illness, just as some bad bacteria can cause infection.

How do they work?

The good bacteria that make up probiotics improve your health by crowding out the bad bacteria, thus keeping you in balance. They can also provide this balance to other areas of the body where a unique microbiota is maintained.

Probiotics can also help reduce inflammation in the body. New science has discovered that inflammation can contribute to many diseases, so probiotics can help protect your overall health.

Your immune system may also use probiotics, reducing the frequency and severity of disease. The digestive tract contains part of your immune system, and the strengthening of good bacteria in your digestive system can help her fight bad germs more effectively.

How can probiotics help me?

As is often the case with supplements such as probiotics, there is overwhelming evidence in what conditions they can help heal. Approved probiotic uses include diarrhea or other stomach complaints due to antibiotic use and some symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).

In addition to these approved uses, studies have shown that probiotics may be helpful in treating certain digestive disorders, allergies, asthma, skin conditions such as eczema and acne, oral health issues, infantile colic, and liver disease. More research is needed on the use of probiotics for these conditions.

What is basically in line with science is that probiotics are relatively safe under normal circumstances. They are unlikely to harm the average person. After all, people have been eating probiotics in fermented foods for centuries. A probiotic taken at any time of the day is unlikely to cause you pain. But how to take probiotics correctly find out below.

Choosing a Probiotic

There are a few things to consider when you're shopping for a probiotic supplement. First you want to check which strains are enabled. There are supplements that contain many strains of bacteria. If there is no specific strain that has proven effective in treating your problem, this may be best.

You want to make sure that the application is made by a reputable manufacturer. These supplements are ideally produced in a laboratory that is GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice for Pharmaceuticals) and FDA certified. You can also check third party testing sites such as LabDoor to see if a product can back up claims made by its manufacturer.

Probiotic doses

You'll want to look at the CFU (Colony Forming Unit). A higher CFU indicates more beneficial bacteria in the supplement. Make sure you differentiate between COP per recommended serving and CFU per capsule.

As far as recommended doses are concerned, there is no set rock manual that dictates the dosage of probiotics you should be taking. Ideally, you will consult with your doctor and take into account the manufacturer's recommended dosage.

When purchasing a probiotic supplement, you will likely see between 1 and 30 billion CFUs per serving. Most of the time it's better.

Why take probiotics at a specific time?

Taking your probiotic supplement at best ensures that you get the most out of it, rather than wasting it due to interactions with food or antibiotics. Why invest in supplements to improve your health if they don't give you the best probiotic benefits?

You can also avoid some of the potentially unpleasant side effects that some people experience when taking probiotics. If you find that taking them on an empty stomach causes stomach problems, try a different time.

How to take probiotics and at what time?

Before making any recommendations, the first thing to do is to read the manufacturer's instructions for the product you have purchased to help you decide when the best best time to take probiotics. The delivery system of a particular probiotic can affect how it is best used and when you should take it.

How to take probiotics? In general, probiotics are best taken on an empty stomach when stomach acid is at its lowest. Less stomach acid gives bacteria and yeast a better chance of living in the gut. In most cases, the best time to take probiotics is in the morning.

How to Take Probiotics: The Benefits of Taking Before Bed

When you take probiotics before bed, you can avoid some of the side effects that can occur with probiotics, such as gas or bloating. At the very least, you are likely to sleep through these uncomfortable issues if they do occur.

If you plan on taking your probiotic at night, make sure you eat lunch a few hours before your sleeping period (and your probiotic dose). This ensures that your stomach is not working and that the level of stomach acid is reduced. No late night snack!

Benefits of taking probiotics after waking up

Taking your probiotics when you get up in the morning can also be good choice. This is because stomach acid levels are at their lowest after a good night's sleep. This allows the bacteria in your body to safely enter your digestive tract and hopefully spread there.

If you choose to take your probiotic in the morning, you might consider postponing breakfast for a few hours. This allows the probiotic extra time to make its way through the stomach and into the lower parts of the digestive tract.

Worst Times to Take Probiotics

Ideally, you should not take probiotics with meals. As I said above, stomach acid levels are at their peak when you eat to digest your food. However, it can also damage the bacteria that make up your probiotic.

Wait a few hours after eating before taking a probiotic supplement.

If you try to take them at the same time and run into side effects feel free to switch it. If they don't work for you at one time, take them at another.

Don't get hung up on the optimal time to take probiotics. Even if you don't take them for a couple of hours after a meal or snack, they will still do something good. The bacteria that survive in your digestive tract may not be as big, but they will still get the job done.

It's also important to note that probiotics can harm people with weakened immune systems. This includes people taking immunosuppressant drugs such as chemotherapy or those used for rheumatoid arthritis. This also includes those who suffer from diseases that affect the immune system, such as HIV.

Always talk to your doctor before starting new supplements like probiotics. This is especially important if you have an ongoing health condition or are taking prescription medication. Your supplier medical services can offer you invaluable advice based on your specific situation.

Your doctor may recommend more probiotic supplements that contain bacterial strains. They will do exactly what you hope. They have a unique understanding of such supplements and seeing how different products work for their patients.

It is also important that your doctor and pharmacist keep a record of all the supplements you use. This may help prevent interaction with medicines and they can help you create a treatment plan that will optimize all of your medications and supplements.

Whether you choose to take your first meal in the morning, right before bed, or any time in between, rest assured that when you take a probiotic supplement, you are actively contributing to your continued health. Do what works best for you. Change what you are doing if it doesn't work.

Taking probiotics at the wrong time is better than not taking them at all. You just need to wait longer to see the effect as the concentration has been reduced.

How to Take Probiotics: Conclusion

While getting a high quality probiotic either first thing in the morning or right before bed is the best time to take probiotics. However, they can still provide you with many health benefits if you take them at other times.

Talk to your health care provider to determine if probiotics are right for you for regular digestive care or for short-term use.

When taking antibiotics, you should take your probiotics as far away from the antibiotic dose as possible, regardless of food intake. Antibiotics are designed to kill bacteria. However, they don't just kill bacteria, causing infection they kill your "good" bacteria and the contents of your probiotic supplement.

By isolating antibiotics and probiotics, you can give your probiotic bacteria time to get to your gut where they do their best. Even if you don't take a probiotic regularly, they are often recommended for those with stomach problems due to antibiotic use, so you might want to consider that.

Topical probiotics (and the probiotics you insert vaginally to treat yeast infections) are becoming increasingly popular skin conditions. You can use this type of probiotic with impunity any time you choose. Issues related to taking oral probiotics at specific times do not apply to topical use.

In this article, you learned how to take probiotics and at what time. We wish you good health!

Probiotics are live bacteria - microorganisms that live in the human body and positively affect its vital activity. Probiotic preparations contain various strains of bacteria.

There are bifid-containing, coli-containing, lacto-containing preparations. Also, the composition may contain yeast-like fungi, enterococci, aerococci, depending on the manufacturer and purpose. Probiotics are available in liquid and dry form.

Probiotics not only allow you to populate the intestines with the right microorganisms and overcome the pathogenic flora that causes various unpleasant symptoms, but also provide an opportunity to increase immunity, effectively deal with ailments. In this article, we look at inexpensive yet effective probiotics for the gut. Reviews, as well as a list of drugs with prices, you will find below.

When are probiotics given?

According to the American Gastroenterological Association, probiotics are currently most commonly prescribed in the treatment of the following diseases and conditions:

1. infectious diarrhea caused by rotavirus infection, including in infants and young children - strains of lactobacilli species Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus casei.
2. - probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria Bifidobacterium infantis and Lactobacillus plantarum and fungi Sacchromyces boulardii, as well as a combination of probiotics can help with the establishment of bowel movements.
3. Antibiotic-associated diarrhea- Saccharomyces boulardii can prevent recurrence of the most dangerous and most common antibiotic-associated diarrhea caused by Clostridium difficile.

In addition, a gastroenterologist can prescribe probiotics for patient complaints of stool disorders, colic and frequent bloating and flatulence, a feeling of heaviness in the stomach, as well as other conditions.

How to take it right?

It is very important to choose the right probiotic for the treatment of a particular condition. To select a probiotic, you can use the following simple rules:

1. If you suspect a bacterial infection of the intestine(acute or chronic) it is recommended to take complex preparations containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria at the same time (for example, Bacteriobalance, Bifidin, Linex, etc.).
2. If you suspect a viral infection of the intestine(acute or chronic), it is recommended to take drugs containing lactobacilli (for example, Lactobacterin, Narine, Biobacton, Primadophilus, etc.).
3. If you suspect a fungal infection of the intestine and genital organs (candidiasis of the intestine and vagina), it is recommended to take preparations containing bifidobacteria (for example, Probiform, Biovestin, Bifidumbacterin, etc.).

During therapy, it is recommended to first drink preparations with lactobacilli, then with bifidobacteria, and only after that with colibacilli (for example, Colibacterin). You can start taking immediately complex preparations that simultaneously contain bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.

Probiotics vs Prebiotics: What's the Difference?

The names of these two groups of drugs are very similar, so they are often confused.

• Probiotics are live microorganisms that belong to the normal intestinal microflora.
• Prebiotics are organic chemicals that have the ability to create excellent conditions for the reproduction of normal intestinal microflora.

It should be noted that the action of both prebiotics and probiotics is similar, because each of the groups of these agents normalizes the intestinal microflora.

Beneficial features

Most probiotic bacteria belong to two genera: lactobacilli (lat. Lactobacillus) and bifidobacteria (lat. Bifidobacterium), although you need to know that there are many other types of probiotic bacteria.

These drugs are capable of:

1. Produce substances that prevent various infections.
2. Prevent bacteria harmful to humans from attaching to the intestinal wall and inhibit their growth.
3. Inhibit secretion or destroy toxins secreted by some "bad" for human body bacteria.
4. Stimulate the strengthening of the mucous layer in the intestines as a barrier against infections.
5. Increase the efficiency of the immune system by secreting antibodies to certain viruses.
6. Produce B vitamins necessary for food metabolism, preventing anemia that occurs when there is a lack of vitamins
7. B6 and B12, as well as maintaining the health of the skin and nervous system.

The described effects are more or less characteristic of all microorganisms related to probiotics. However, the mechanisms of these effects have not yet been fully elucidated.

Probiotics for the intestines: list and prices

To maintain intestinal health, the following drugs may be prescribed:

• Linex is one of the most famous probiotics that are common in Russia. It contains three components of the microflora, which are located in different parts of the intestine. Price 350-500 rubles.
• . It is often used in pediatrics for conditions characteristic of a violation of the colonization of the intestine by flora, in combination with antibiotics and other drugs. It contains Bifidobacterium bifidum N1 in dry powder form. Price 350-400 rubles.
• More concentrated bifidobacteria are contained in Probifor - one sachet contains about 10 servings of bacteria that are in Bifidumbacterin. Price 500-600 rubles.
• . In addition to probiotic strains of lacto- and bifidobacteria, it contains Escherichia coli. Combined with antibiotic therapy, thanks to the protective capsule, it easily overcomes the acidic environment of the stomach. It is one of the best encapsulated probiotics for adults. Price 350-400 rubles.
• Florin forte. It is a powder containing lacto- and bifidobacteria. It is prescribed for both adults and children and newborns. Due to the combination of bacteria, it has a complex effect, but it does not combine well with some antibiotics. Price 500-550 rubles.

Depending on the time of creation and improvement, several generations of probiotics are distinguished:

• I generation - classic monocomponent preparations, consisting of one strain of microorganisms - typical inhabitants of the intestine (bifidumbacterin, lactobacterin, etc.);
• II generation - self-eliminating antagonists (bactisubtil, enterol, biosporin, etc.);
• III generation - polycomponent preparations (symbiotics), consisting of several (from 2 to 30) bacterial strains (bifilong, etc.) or several types of bacteria (linex, bifikol, etc.);
• IV generation - combined preparations(synbiotics), consisting of a strain of bacteria and ingredients that promote their growth, reproduction and metabolic activity (bifilis, kipacid, etc.);
• V generation - multicomponent combined preparations (synbiotics), consisting of several types of bacteria and ingredients that promote their growth, reproduction and metabolic activity (floristin, bifiform, etc.).

In addition, the form of the probiotic must be considered. All of them are divided into:

• Dry probiotics(lactobacterin, bifidumbacterin, colibacterin, etc.);
• Liquid forms (biovestin, biovestin-lacto, floristin, trilact, bifidum No. 791 BAG, liquid bifido- and lactobacterins, lactoflor, etc.);
• Sorption forms s (ecoflor, probifor, bifidobacterin forte, bifikol forte, etc.);
• Enteric coated capsules(linex, bifiform).

And if earlier liquid probiotics for the intestines were considered the best, today capsule preparations are increasingly common. Modern technologies allow you to effectively store all the necessary bacteria in the capsule. Those who take probiotics unanimously declare that it is much more convenient to drink drugs in capsules, like a vitamin: I took it out of the package, washed it down with water and forgot ...

Probiotics in foods

Sources of prebiotics are: dairy products, bread, cereals, peas, corn flakes, garlic, bananas, onions, beans and some other types of foods. One of the most popular foods that provide probiotic intake is yogurt.

In addition, their sources are: most dairy products, such as cheese, kefir, cottage cheese, buttermilk. There are several other examples of probiotics: sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, bread, wine, soy sauce.