Probiotics

I have noticed that many of you take probiotics. My doctor never told me to take them but I wanted to take what helps you all. My UC flare seems to be under control now (2 good weeks now). So do you recommend them and what brand do you use.

Hi Oldbuttnew,
There is absolutely no scientific evidence to support the fact that probiotics help UC in any way, however there is studies showing probiotics can influence the activation of immune cells that appear to block disease. So I would recommend trying it and seeing how it goes.

There is definitely some evidence to support that probiotics can be beneficial in some cases on UC. Below is a commonly cited study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15984978

VSL #3 seems to be the most researched probiotic. However, Florastor has been researched as well and has been shown to reduce the reoccurrence of c. Diff. Be wary of claims on probiotic bottles and packaging. Yes, some research is valid, but since pretty much all probiotics are considered supplements, they don't fall under the same FDA regulations as food and drugs. So these companies that sell probiotics can stretch the truth a bit when it comes to what strains and how many units are contained in their capsules, pills, etc.

There are also other options aside from capsules to get probiotics--fermented foods. I have begun incorporating sauerkraut into my diet. Other fermented foods inlcude Kefir, kimchi, kombucha, etc. Make sure if you try these foods that you are getting them in the refrigerated section. Any foods that are pasteurized are devoid of probiotics. I have been thinking of making my own sauerkraut; I hear it is pretty easy to make.

Also, if you decide to try out probiotics whether through supplements or fermented foods, a lot of folks recommend to gradually ease into consumption. Some of the higher strength probiotics (e.g. VSL #3) and even fermented foods have been reported by some people to cause gastrointestinal distress. So start out slowly and gradually increase your dose.

I'd recommend trying some form of probiotics. It's not likely to hurt and if in the off chance that it does, then it will likely just cause some bloating and gas. I'd probably recommend VSL #3 or Florastor if you go the supplement route. However, I hear VSL #3 is pretty expensive for most folks and some lines of VSL #3 are not over the counter and thus require a prescription. I'd recommend checking out one of the health food stores in your area and try out some of the fermented foods. Wildbrine and Bubbies are fairly popular sauerkraut brands. Personally, I prefer Wildbrine since they don't heat-flash their kraut, but I will also get Bubbies sometimes too. Can't go wrong with either.

Post Edited (NostalgicCowboy) : 1/17/2017 6:30:01 PM (GMT-7)

I figure it's worth a shot given all the other stuff I've triedike immunosuppressants, Entyvio etc.

I'm trying Floristor and another kind (Active, I think) to get diff strands. Only been a few weeks so idk how it's working. Still flaring

I can't take prednisone, have a severe reaction to imuran and rectal meds don't work for me so I have to rely largely on probiotics to get me under control. They're a lifesaver for me. VSL is really hard to get here in Australia, so I use Vivomixx which also works really well. I definitely would add it.

You can order VSL online or order the prescription double-strength at your pharmacy. I believe they are shipped in a package with an ice pack to keep them cool. I'd expect most strong probiotics to be special orders and not available as standard inventory in local stores. Ask if they can special order at your store.

As an alternative or in addition to probiotics, increase your intake of fermented foods. Kimchi, Kombucha, Keifer contain loads of probiotics. It's no VSL3, but every little bit helps. I eat kimchi on a regular basis as it's really easy to make and is loaded with stuff that's great for the gut.

even if you are in some sort of remission (the definition varies widely from one butt to the next) your body should still be able to offer up noticeable changes, both positive and negative -

Old posts reappear every so often and are good for a chuckle. I change my siggy often weekly.