Probiotics that help with diarrhea
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Probiotics for Diarrhea: Efficacy and Recommendations
Introduction to Probiotics and Diarrhea
Diarrhea, a common gastrointestinal issue, can be caused by various factors including infections, antibiotics, and other underlying health conditions. Probiotics, which are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, have been studied extensively for their potential to prevent and treat different types of diarrhea.
Probiotics for Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii
Several studies have highlighted the effectiveness of specific probiotic strains in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (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 comprehensive review of 33 studies involving 6,352 participants also supports the use of these probiotics, showing a significant reduction in the incidence of AAD when high doses (≥ 5 billion CFUs per day) are administered.
Efficacy in Reducing AAD Incidence
The incidence of AAD in children receiving probiotics was significantly lower compared to those who did not receive probiotics. Specifically, the incidence was 8% in the probiotic group versus 19% in the control group, demonstrating a moderate protective effect. This finding is consistent across various studies, reinforcing the potential of probiotics in managing AAD .
Probiotics for Clostridium difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD)
Saccharomyces boulardii
For preventing Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD), Saccharomyces boulardii has been suggested, although the quality of evidence is lower compared to AAD prevention. A meta-analysis of 31 trials involving 8,672 participants found that probiotics, including Saccharomyces boulardii, reduce the risk of CDAD by 60%, particularly in high-risk groups.
Probiotics for Acute Infectious Diarrhea
Lactobacillus casei and Other Strains
Probiotics have also been studied for their role in treating acute infectious diarrhea. A study involving Lactobacillus casei showed that this probiotic strain can significantly improve clinical symptoms, modulate gut microbiota, and reduce inflammatory markers in children with acute diarrhea. Additionally, a meta-analysis of 63 trials concluded that probiotics reduce the duration of diarrhea by approximately 24 hours and decrease stool frequency, highlighting their beneficial effects when used alongside rehydration therapy .
General Efficacy Across Different Strains
The protective effect of probiotics against acute diarrhea does not significantly vary among different strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Saccharomyces boulardii. These probiotics have been shown to reduce the risk of acute diarrhea by 34% and are particularly effective in children.
Conclusion
Probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, are effective in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea and Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea. They also show promise in treating acute infectious diarrhea by reducing its duration and severity. While more research is needed to refine specific probiotic regimens, current evidence supports their use as a safe and beneficial adjunct to traditional treatments for diarrhea.
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