The Side Effects of Probiotics
By Sara Butler
Probiotics have become very popular over the last few years and for good reason. The bacteria that live in the gut have been found to have a huge impact on your health and wellness. To keep the bacteria happy and satisfied, many people incorporate certain foods or supplements into their diet. Can you get too much of a good thing? Of course, you can and probiotics are no different. Here are a few of the unsavory side effects you may experience as a result of probiotics.
Headaches
Certain probiotic-rich foods such as kimchi, yogurt, and sauerkraut contain something called biogenic amines. These are substances that form when foods are fermented or aged by bacteria. The amines most often found in foods are tyramine, histamine, phenylethylamine, and tryptamine. These can excite the central nervous system by decreasing or increasing blood flow. In people sensitive to it, that can trigger headaches.
If you suffer from frequent headaches, then it may be a good idea to keep a food journal so you can try to make connections between food sensitivities and headaches. If you find that probiotic-rich foods are triggering headaches, then you may want to consider a supplement.
Allergies and Intolerances
In some people with intolerances and allergies, it’s important to read the labels of any probiotic foods and supplements carefully. They may contain ingredients that cause a reaction since they often contain eggs, soy, or dairy.
Yeast-based probiotics should be avoided by anyone with a yeast allergy. You can find bacteria-based probiotics to take instead, but it’s important to know the difference to avoid unsavory side effects.
You should also be on the lookout if you have lactose intolerance. Some people with lactose sensitivities have reported adverse side effects from taking too many probiotic supplements such as bloating. Be on the lookout for lactose-free products so you don’t experience issues.
Increased Risk of Infection
Probiotics are absolutely safe for a majority of people, but they may not be the right choice for everyone. In very rare cases, the yeasts or bacteria found in probiotics can cause infections in people who are susceptible. If you have a suppressed immune system, have had recent surgery, or have venous catheters, then probiotics may not be a healthy choice.
The risk of developing an infection is very low, but it’s worth noting for that one-in-a-million chance that you could get an infection, especially if you have the risk factors.
If you are curious about probiotics and wonder if they’re right for you, then discuss them with your chiropractor at The Joint.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fitchburg, Wis.