Probiotics are supplements to help protect and maintain a healthy digestive system, especially the stomach and intestines. Probiotics are often referred to as “good” bacteria.
Probiotics are believed to have a variety of ways of working. One of them is by balancing the number of "good" bacteria and "bad" bacteria that live in the digestive system. This way of working is believed to be able to relieve diarrhea caused by infection or due to the use of antibiotics.
In addition, several studies have also shown that probiotics are useful for relieving complaints due to inflammation in the digestive tract (inflammatory bowel disease) or irritation of the gastrointestinal tract (irritable bowel syndrome).
In addition to supplements, probiotics can be found in fermented food or beverage products, such as tempeh, kefir, pickles, or yogurt.
There are several bacteria and fungi that are included in probiotics, namely:
- LactobacillusLactobacillus is a type of good bacteria that can be found in fermented food products, including yogurt. This probiotic is often used to treat diarrhea and lactose absorption disorders.
- Saccharomyces boulardiiSaccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic derived from yeast or fungi. Apart from fermented products, these probiotics can also be found in the skin of mangosteen and lychee. This probiotic is believed to be useful for relieving diarrhea, inflammation of the digestive tract, or irritation of the digestive tract.
- BifidobacteriumBifidobacterium is a probiotic that can be found in dairy products, such as cheese. This probiotic is often used to relieve complaints of digestive disorders, such as: irritable bowel syndrome.
Probiotic trademarks: Lacto-B, Probiotics, Probiotin, Probiotim
What are Probiotics
| group | Free medicine |
| Category | Supplement |
| Benefit | Protects and maintains digestive tract health |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Probiotics for pregnant and lactating women | Category N:Not yet known Probiotics are believed to be safe for breastfeeding mothers if consumed according to the doctor's recommendations and the rules listed on the packaging. |
| Drug form | Powders and capsules |
Warning Before Taking Probiotics
There are several things you need to pay attention to before consuming probiotics, namely:
- Do not take probiotics if you are allergic to this drug. If in doubt, consult your doctor first.
- Do not take probiotics if you have acute pancreatitis.
- Consult the use of probiotics with your doctor if you have or are currently experiencing pancreatic disease, a weakened immune system, bloody diarrhea, or short bowel syndrome.
- Consult a doctor first before giving probiotics to children or people who are elderly (elderly).
- Talk to your doctor about using probiotics if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Talk to your doctor about using probiotics if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction or overdose after taking probiotics.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Probiotics
Probiotics are often found in the form of supplements or fermented products, such as yogurt. Dosage and duration of use usually depend on the content of bacteria or yeast in the probiotic product. Follow the directions for use listed on the packaging or doctor's recommendations when taking probiotics.
Dosage of type of probiotics Lactobacillus recommended for adults is 1–10 billion colony-forming units or colony forming units (CFU) per day, for several days. Whereas for Saccharomyces boulardii, some studies suggest the daily dose is 250–500 mg.
How to Consume Probiotics Correctly
Before consuming probiotics, read the instructions for use listed on the product packaging. If you have doubts or have special health conditions, discuss with your doctor about the dosage, product options, and how to use according to your condition.
Take probiotics according to the recommended dosage. Do not increase or decrease the dose without consulting your doctor first.
Probiotics can be taken with or without food. Probiotics can be mixed with water, food, or milk for better absorption or to reduce discomfort in the digestive tract.
Store probiotics at room temperature and away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Interaction of Probiotics with Other Drugs
Research on the interaction of probiotics with other drugs is still minimal. However, one study showed increased levels of vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B2 (riboflavin) in healthy women who took probiotics for 2 weeks.
To prevent drug interactions, always consult your doctor if you plan to take probiotics with medications, supplements, or herbal products.
Side Effects and Dangers of Probiotics
If taken in accordance with the recommended dosage, probiotic supplements generally rarely cause side effects. However, in some conditions, probiotics can cause side effects such as:
- Stomach pain
- Diarrhea
- Bloated
Check with your doctor if you experience any of the side effects mentioned above. Immediately see a doctor if you experience an allergic reaction after taking probiotics.