7 mistakes to avoid when using probiotics

Probiotics are a good supplement for intestinal health. However, not everyone knows how to use probiotics properly. Below are some common mistakes...

1. When to use probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to health, especially the digestive system. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria.

Probiotics are used when the balance of intestinal microflora is disturbed, often seen in patients on long-term antibiotic treatment with symptoms of intestinal dysbiosis such as loose stools, diarrhea, indigestion, bloating...

Note, probiotics should not be used as a substitute for basic medical treatment. It is best to consult your doctor before use to determine the appropriate treatment regimen.

Probiotics are a good supplement for gut health.

2. Some notes to avoid when using probiotics

During use, to make probiotics effective, the following mistakes should be avoided:

- Using probiotics without assessing your condition : Although probiotics are relatively safe, they are not suitable for everyone. For people who are seriously ill, undergoing chemotherapy, have immune disorders or have other diseases, it is best to consult a doctor before using so as not to affect the effectiveness of treatment.

- Using the wrong probiotic strain: Common probiotic species include Lactobacillus lactis, Bifidobacteria, Bacillus and Streptococcus. Depending on the strain, they have different effects, so it is necessary to choose the right strain according to each person's individual needs.

When choosing probiotics, in addition to paying attention to the bacterial strain, bacterial count, and absorption rate, you should also avoid using only one type of probiotic for a long time. It is best to flexibly adjust the types of probiotics.

- Use probiotics with coffee, tea, hot drinks : Like medicine, probiotics should be taken with filtered water. Do not take with coffee, tea or drinks containing caffeine. If you must take them, you should take them about 1-2 hours apart.

Hot water can easily kill live bacteria and destroy the original effect of probiotics, so probiotics should be used with boiled water that has cooled to no more than 35°C.

Probiotics are abundant in some foods such as yogurt, kimchi...

- Improper storage : Some probiotics need to be refrigerated to ensure the survival of beneficial bacteria and maximize the effectiveness of the product. Exposure to high temperatures, humidity or direct sunlight can weaken beneficial bacteria, significantly reducing the health benefits of probiotics .

- Lifestyle factors : Factors such as stress, lack of sleep, alcohol consumption and a diet high in sugar, spicy, fried or processed foods, containing food additives such as candy, fast food, processed foods... can negatively affect intestinal health, making it difficult for beneficial bacteria to grow and multiply.

- Overuse of probiotics : Taking too many probiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria, leading to an overgrowth of certain strains of bacteria, reducing the overall diversity of the gut microbiome. This diversity is key to a healthy gut.

- Consider probiotics as a panacea : While probiotics may be beneficial for certain health conditions, they are not a panacea for all health problems. It is important to use probiotics as part of a comprehensive approach to health that includes a healthy diet, exercise, and other lifestyle factors.

Dr. Duong Khanh Linh

Source: https://giadinh.suckhoedoisong.vn/7-loi-can-tranh-khi-su-dung-men-vi-sinh-172241130080129507.htm