Can probiotics cause nausea
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Can Probiotics Cause Nausea?
Introduction to Probiotics and Their Uses
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. They are widely used to improve gut health and treat various gastrointestinal disorders. However, like any supplement, probiotics can have side effects, including gastrointestinal issues such as nausea.
Probiotics and Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Nausea and Chemotherapy Patients
Several studies have investigated the effects of probiotics on chemotherapy-induced gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea. A systematic review of multiple studies found that probiotics could significantly reduce the severity of chemotherapy-related side effects, including nausea, in some cases 123. However, the heterogeneity of the data makes it difficult to draw firm conclusions about their overall effectiveness.
General Safety and Side Effects
Probiotics are generally considered safe, but they can cause gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, diarrhea, flatulence, and abdominal pain . These side effects are usually mild and temporary, but they can be more severe in certain populations, such as those with compromised immune systems.
Specific Studies on Nausea
A study on the administration of probiotics to colorectal cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy found that probiotics could effectively reduce gastrointestinal complications, including nausea . Another study focusing on children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia receiving chemotherapy also noted a reduction in nausea with the use of synbiotics, which are supplements containing both probiotics and prebiotics .
Conclusion
While probiotics are generally safe and can be beneficial in reducing certain gastrointestinal side effects, including nausea, they can also cause nausea in some individuals. The severity and occurrence of this side effect can vary depending on the individual's health condition and the specific strains of probiotics used. Therefore, it is essential to consult healthcare providers before starting any probiotic regimen, especially for individuals undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic