Diarrhea probiotics
Searched over 200M research papers for "diarrhea probiotics"
Summary
10 papers analyzed
These studies suggest that probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, can help prevent and treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea and acute infectious diarrhea in both children and adults, although more research is needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.
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The Role of Probiotics in Preventing and Treating Diarrhea
Introduction to Probiotics and Diarrhea
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer health benefits to the host. They are increasingly being studied for their potential to prevent and treat various types of diarrhea, including antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) and infectious diarrhea.
Probiotics for Preventing Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
Efficacy in Children
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of probiotics in preventing AAD in children. The European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition recommends using Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii for this purpose, citing moderate quality of evidence and strong recommendations. A meta-analysis of 33 studies involving 6,352 participants found that probiotics significantly reduced the incidence of AAD in children, with a number needed to treat (NNT) of 9. High doses of probiotics (≥ 5 billion CFUs per day) were found to be more effective than lower doses.
Efficacy in Adults
In adults, probiotics have also been shown to reduce the risk of AAD. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 42 studies involving 11,305 participants found that probiotics reduced the risk of AAD by 37%. The effectiveness was particularly notable in studies with a high baseline risk of AAD and when high doses of probiotics were used.
Probiotics for Preventing Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD)
Probiotics have shown promise in preventing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD) in both adults and children. A systematic review of 31 randomized controlled trials involving 8,672 participants found that probiotics reduced the risk of CDAD by 60%. The incidence of CDAD was significantly lower in the probiotic group compared to the control group, particularly in trials with a high baseline risk of CDAD.
Probiotics for Treating Infectious Diarrhea
General Efficacy
Probiotics are also effective in treating acute infectious diarrhea. A meta-analysis of 23 studies found that probiotics reduced the duration of diarrhea by approximately 30 hours. Another review of 63 studies involving 8,014 participants confirmed that probiotics reduced both the duration and stool frequency in cases of acute infectious diarrhea.
Specific Strains and Dosages
The effectiveness of probiotics in treating infectious diarrhea does not significantly vary among different strains. However, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii are frequently highlighted for their efficacy. The protective effect of probiotics is also more pronounced in children, reducing the risk of acute diarrhea by 57%.
Safety of Probiotics
Probiotics are generally considered safe for use in both children and adults. Most studies report low rates of adverse events, which are typically mild and include symptoms like abdominal cramping, nausea, and flatulence . However, caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals due to the potential risk of severe infections.
Conclusion
Probiotics, particularly strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, are effective in preventing and treating various forms of diarrhea, including AAD and infectious diarrhea. They are generally safe for use in both children and adults, although high doses tend to be more effective. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to explore the efficacy of other probiotic strains.
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