Probiotics slow down ‘the runs’
The Australian Doctor has reported that taking probiotic bacteria will cut short a bout of the runs – diarrhoea.
The Cochrane Review (Database of Systematic Reviews 2010) looked at 63 research trials involving a total of 8,000 patients and it showed consistently across all trials that giving probiotics plus fluids reduced diahorrea by about a day. Probiotics also reduced the risk of diarrhoea lasting 4+ days by 59%.
Probiotic are helpful “bugs”, live microorganisms such as friendly bacteria or yeast that fight illness-causing bacteria. It’s natural for our bodies to carry hundreds of different types. They keep our intestines (digestive tract) healthy and help to break down food, plus assist with immune response (fighting off illness).
When the balance of internal bacteria is disturbed (such as with diarrhoea, after an infection, or taking antibiotics), adding new beneficial organisms (probiotics) can help recovery and boost the immune system.
The range of probiotics available on the market can be confusing – and the Continence Foundation of Australia says to ask your doctor about the ones most suitable for you.
