Probiotics and Antibiotics: The Good and The Bad
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to fight bacterial infections and illnesses. These prescriptions are written at an alarming rate for both adults and children for varying symptoms. In some cases, antibiotics are completely necessary. In many, they are doing more harm than good and are sacrificing the health of our society.
The immune system is the body’s natural defense. When our immunity is compromised for whatever reason, our body’s natural army is not able to ward off intruding agents. When the intruding bacteria, fungus or virus win the battle, illness and dis-ease often occur. This is when antibiotics are commonly prescribed, especially in children. However, antibiotics are ONLY effective in killing bacteria. This is why antibiotics should never be taken for a common cold or flu which is caused by a virus.
Contrary to popular belief, not all bacteria is bad. In fact, you cannot have proper health without certain kinds of good bacteria. You must have high amounts of the good bacteria for proper digestion, immunity and many other processes in your body.
Unfortunately, when people take antibiotics (and many medications) it wipes out the good bacteria with the bad, leaving your body at risk for a number of future health problems.
Think of it this way: Look at your window. Hopefully you can see some beautiful green grass. Those that have tended to a yard are well aware of what dandelions are. When they begin to flourish, you can call in Chem-lawn to wipe them out to allow the pretty grass to thrive. However, in the process, say they spray too much. Then you are left with nothing. What is usually the first thing that starts re-growing after an event like this? Weeds. Dandelions. In this analogy, the “dandelions” are bad bacteria, the “grass” is the good bacteria, and “Chem-lawn” are the antibiotics.
This is the same concept as bacteria and your body. The bad can flourish. Antibiotics wipe out the bad AND the good. Without the good being replaced, the bad bacteria flourish again. And we get recurring infections. At times like this, it is extremely important to replenish the good bacteria known as probiotics.
The word probiotics means “for life,” and they are the beneficial or “good bacteria” that help promote health. The word antibiotics means “against life.”
So what can you do to avoid potential health problems from this bacteria war? Enhance your immunity and increase the good bacteria in your body. Both of these will allow your body to do what it was made to do, heal itself. Probiotics support the body’s natural immune function among many other things.
The good news? This means there are natural ways to fight bacterial infections. First, get adjusted regularly to ensure proper function of the nervous system which seriously gives a large boost to natural immunity (yes, it is even safe for kids!). Next, outnumber the bad bacteria with the good. How?
Large yogurt companies have made claims that their products are high in probiotics. It is true that most yogurts contain natural, good bacteria. Unfortunately, many name brand yogurts such as Activia and Yoplait are so loaded with refined sugars that by the time it enters your mouth, all the good bacteria has been destroyed. Probiotics are much more potent and complete in supplement form in most cases.
If you, or especially your child, must take antibiotics, a probiotic is highly recommended to replenish the good bacteria. The two can and should be taken together but at different times. If you or your doctor is uncomfortable with taking them at the same time, begin the probiotics immediately after the antibiotics. Different products work for different people. Be sure to speak with a knowledgeable practitioner who can recommend one that is right for you.
OWC Recommendations
If you or your child is currently on antibiotics, it important to take them at least 6 hours apart from each other. A way to keep this simple is to give the probiotic in the morning, and the antibiotic with dinner.
- Most probiotics should be taken on an empty stomach (unless they have enteric coating) to ensure full absorption and use of the friendly bacteria. Always take probiotics away from milk and dairy products.
- It is extremely important to find a high quality, reliable supplement that contains the right strands and potency. Dosing will vary based on the individual condition and health status of your child
- The child’s age will play a role in choosing the right supplement for your kiddo. The main options are chewable tablets, powdered drink mix, or tablets that can be swallowed.
- Many probiotics need to be refrigerated to keep the good bacteria alive and more potent. Others are “shelf-stable” and do not require refrigeration. It is important to follow refrigerating directions to ensure full potency when taking them.
- Avoid products that are treated with antibiotics and hormones (many store bought animal products and especially milk). There are many reasons why milk is not good for you, but if you just cannot kick the habit, spend the extra buck or two and buy organic.
- Eat foods high in probiotics to get the most natural form including:
+Yogurt (plain and organic are best – look for “live and active cultures” on the label)
+Kefir
+Naturally fermented sauerkraut
AVOID
Yogurts with fruit and syrup (very high in sugar with little to no benefit)
Milk and dairy products that have been previously treated with antibiotics and hormones
