When clients come to the practice, Gabrielle often discusses the importance of a healthy gut microbiome. But what happens when antibiotics enter the picture? Let’s explore how these powerful medications impact your gut health and what you can do to maintain balance.
The Double-Edged Sword of Antibiotics
Antibiotics are designed to combat bacterial infections, but unfortunately, they don’t discriminate between harmful and beneficial bacteria. Taking antibiotics can wipe out good probiotics in your system, disrupt the delicate balance of your gut microbiome, and potentially cause long-term changes to your gut flora.
Ideally, antibiotic prescriptions should be based on specific bacterial cultures or other testing to determine the problematic microbe. However, doctors often prescribe broad-spectrum antibiotics as a preventative measure, leading to the unnecessary elimination of beneficial bacteria. As a result, there is an added potential for ineffectiveness against viral infections, and overuse can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
Rebuilding Your Gut After Antibiotics
If you’ve taken antibiotics, don’t worry; there are steps you can take to support your gut health—consider a supplement like Saccharomyces boulardii, increase your intake of prebiotic and fermented foods, and take a high-quality oral probiotic.
When selecting a probiotic, keep these factors in mind:
- Refrigeration isn’t always necessary for effectiveness
- Look for different strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium
- The number of colony-forming units (CFUs) isn’t always the most crucial factor
- Rotating different strains can be beneficial
Holistic Gut Health Is More Than Supplements
Remember, supporting your gut health goes beyond probiotics. Your focus should be on incorporating probiotic and prebiotic-rich foods into your diet, managing stress levels, and creating an overall healthy environment for your gut microbiome.
Gabrielle is committed to helping you maintain a healthy gut, even when antibiotics are necessary. If you’re concerned about your gut health or have questions about recovering after antibiotic use, call today to schedule a visit with The Gut Goddess!