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VSL#3 DS Advice

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 8/31/2016 5:02 PM (GMT 0)
Hoping you all can give me some advice. I am going to try VSL#3 and my doctor prescribed the DS. I have read that it can initially cause gas, bloating, etc. How should I start it? I have had it in my fridge for over 2 weeks and not just sure if it's the right time to try it. I am currently having a mild flare and doing nightly cort enemas. Should I wait to start? Do I start with a 1/4 or 1/2 packet and try every other day? Also, can you share your experience with it - good and bad so I know what to expect. Any other tips and advice on how and when to take are greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Posted 8/31/2016 5:28 PM (GMT 0)
VSL DS#3 did nothing for me, except give me gas. I gave it a month and then discontinued it.

Yes, those are very potent packets so starting slowly is highly recommended to ease potential bloating, allow your body to adjust, and reduce the initial gas. I did half a satchel each day for a week, and then did full satchel a day thereafter.

Good luck!
Posted 8/31/2016 6:52 PM (GMT 0)
Are you experienced taking probiotics? Probiotic compatibility varies by individual, for example I have read nothing but good things in the Crohn's forum about Align which contains the B. infantis bacteria strain. But when I tried it my symptoms became worse.

But since I don't take meds the mainstay of my remission is probiotics, specifically VSL#3DS, Culturelle, and a specific type of Reuteri. (the same 3 probiotics used by Momto2Boys). It is definitely worth trying out the VSL#3DS, it may really help you.

I would start out slowly, perhaps half a packet the first day and if nothing bad happens then increase the dosage. VSL#3DS is the strongest probiotic available with almost 1 trillion bacteria units. Maybe that is why it is prescription since most probiotics contain only a few billion units. There are some studies out there where it was found that 2-4 packets of VSL#3 has snuffed out some flares for some individuals. I myself only take 1 packet while in remission and maybe 2 packets if symptoms begin creeping in.
Posted 8/31/2016 7:06 PM (GMT 0)
I have never tried to a probiotic. I didn't even realize they were the double strength until today. When I asked my GI about them he wasn't sure if it would help as he thinks they tend to work better for mild or moderate UC and mine is severe. I just figured I really don't have anything to lose besides the $65 if they don't work. Does it have a taste to it? It says to mix with water or cold non carbonated beverage. Thanks for the feedback, much appreciated.
Posted 8/31/2016 7:17 PM (GMT 0)
I mix mine with apple sauce and take it first thing in the morning.
Posted 9/1/2016 3:11 AM (GMT 0)
VSL#3 helped me on the path to remission, I never tried the double strength because my insurance didn't cover it. I always start anything new on a weekend or days when I had 24 hours of no commitments if necessary because my gut is cranky about new things even if they are (supposed to be) helpful.

You might get gas, that's a natural effect of probiotics which are beneficial bacteria trying to repopulate your colon and hopefully displacing some of the bacteria that may be out of whack in the micro biome.
Start with half a packet or even less (I see this advice already given), if nothing bad happens increase the dose the next time. If gas is too much don't increase the dose and wait a day and take it again.

This is one of the only probiotics with medical studies showing benefit for UC. Definitely worth giving it a shot at least once or twice. If it makes you sick (nauseous, etc) don't continue but gas would not stop me for trying for a week or two and seeing if anything good happens.
Posted 9/1/2016 11:29 AM (GMT 0)
I mixed vsl with water and it tasted like expired milk. Certainly mix it with something with a good flavor, like the applesauce that sounds good!
Posted 9/1/2016 11:36 AM (GMT 0)
definitely give them a try - and definitely follow the above advice about going slow - it's certainly not a race so patience will only benefit you -

good luck -
Posted 9/1/2016 1:12 PM (GMT 0)
Thanks everyone. I think I'll hold off until after the holiday, especially since I am having a party for my son - don't want to kill everyone with gas!
Posted 9/1/2016 1:49 PM (GMT 0)
I have been using VSL#3 capsules twice a day for 5 years. I absolutely swear by it. I am very regular and have normal shaped movements. Yes it does cause gas, especially when I exercise.
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