When to take the probiotic: before or after the antibiotic, in the morning or in the evening?

You buy a probiotic and everything seems so easy - you just have to start taking it. But when it comes down to it, a mass of doubts arise. For example: does the time of day matter?

A probiotic is, after all, live bacteria that are supposed to survive in your digestive system and make their way to your intestines. You want to make it easy for them to do this so that they bring you the best results. That's why, together with Ilona Krzak, MSc in pharmacy, we will break down the question: when to take a probiotic?

First you will learn, when  (in which cases) a probiotic can be helpful. Later you will find specific advice when (i.e. at what time) to take preparations with live bacteria cultures.

See also:

• What is a probiotic?
.
• What is a prebiotic?
• What is a synbiotic?
• What probiotic to choose for the gut?
• Do probiotics lose weight?
• Which probiotic for pregnant women?
• What probiotic for gynecological problems?
• Which probiotic is best?
• What is sodium butyrate?
• What is butyric acid?
• What is a psychobiotic?

For which ailments to take probiotics?

You will most often hear about probiotics when your doctor prescribes you an antibiotic. At that time, it is very likely that you will be advised to take these beneficial bacteria salivarily. However, protecting your gut microflora from medication is not the only value these microorganisms can give you.

Your gut and its little inhabitants affect metabolism, insulin management, and immunity. They can support you in the fight against inflammation, and may even be responsible for synthesising relevant neurotransmitters that affect your moodand.

Antibiotic therapy

Antibiotics are an extremely effective tool in the fight against bacterial infections. Their function is to eliminate the pathogenic microorganisms that cause disease. Unfortunately, these drugs do not know which bacteria are 'bad' and which ones ensure the proper functioning of your body.

Antibiotics therefore destroy not only the harmful but also the beneficial probiotic bacteria. Without them, your digestive system is at risk of being colonised by pathogens that can cause diarrhoea. The process of digesting food itself is also not as smooth - you may experience unpleasant discomforts such as heartburn or abdominal painand.

Particular attention to taking a probiotic while on antibiotic therapy should be given to people with obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, liver disease and recurrent infections of Clostridioides difficile, among others, due to the reduced diversity of the gut microbiome, adds pharmacist.

Probiotics are live cultures of bacteria that have health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. The most common probiotic bacteria are those of the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. They are natural inhabitants of your digestive system, and their presence is crucial to gut health and overall wellbeingand.

During antibiotic treatment, probiotics can help in several key aspectsand:

Protect the gut microflora. Antibiotics destroy all bacteria, leading to disorganisation of the natural gut microflora. Probiotics can help to rebuild it by filling in the cavities destroyed by drugs, thus supporting the health of the digestive system.

Prevent antibiotic-related diarrhoea. This is a common side effect of antibiotic therapy. Studies show that probiotics can reduce the risk of diarrhoea associated with antibiotic therapy by stabilising the gut microflora.

As reported expert pharmacist, efficacy in preventing post-antibiotic diarrhoea is demonstrated by: 

• Saccharomyces boulardii I-745,
.
• L. casei DN114001,
.
• a mixture of three strains - Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285, L. casei Lbc80r, L. rhamnosus CLR2.
.

Strengthen the immune system. Probiotics can support the immune system, improving the body's ability to fight pathogens. This is particularly important during antibiotic therapy, when the body's natural defences may be lowered.

After antibiotic treatment, rebuilding the gut microbiome can take some time. After short-term use of these medications (5 to 10 days), studies have observed that it can take at least one to two months for most bacterial groups to return to pre-antibiotic levelsand.

The study also showed that even after two to four years, some groups of bacteria do not completely recover, and that antimicrobial resistance genes can also persist at elevated levels for at least one to two years after antibiotic treatment. Even a short antibiotic treatment can have a long-term impact on the gut microbiomeand.

6 bacterial strains

ALLDEYNN ROSEBIOTIC

5.0

• Main ingredients: Lab2pro™ 6 strainsóof lactic acid bacteria
.
• Form: pastilles
.
• Packaging: 30 lozenges
.
• Dosage: 1 lozenge per day
.
• Sufficient for: 30 days
.

See price

Product description

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Pros and cons

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Additional information

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Expert opinion

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Best for digestion

Sundose° Daily Lightness°

4.8

• Active ingredients: caraway extract, artichoke extract, curcumin, piperine and probiotics
• Form: capsules + powder
.
• Dose: 1 sachet + 3 hard capsules
• Sufficient for: 30 days
.

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in the Natu.Care shop

Product description

Sundose° Daily Lightness° is a formula thatós supports the stomach and liver, reduces the frequency of gasóing and bloating, and supports optimal digestion. The formula contains no unnecessary additivesós, and the composition of the active ingredients (e.g. curcumin with piperine) mutually enhances their absorption.
The dietary supplement from Sundose comes in two flavour versions: orange and green.

Pros and cons

Sundose° Daily Lightness° is a formula thatós supports the stomach and liver, reduces the frequency of gasóing and bloating, and supports optimal digestion. The formula contains no unnecessary additivesós, and the composition of the active ingredients (e.g. curcumin with piperine) mutually enhances their absorption.
The dietary supplement from Sundose comes in two flavour versions: orange and green.

Additional information

Sundose° Daily Lightness° is a formula thatós supports the stomach and liver, reduces the frequency of gasóing and bloating, and supports optimal digestion. The formula contains no unnecessary additivesós, and the composition of the active ingredients (e.g. curcumin with piperine) mutually enhances their absorption.
The dietary supplement from Sundose comes in two flavour versions: orange and green.

Helps the thyroid

Dr.Jacob's Iodine + Selenium probio

4.8

• Active ingredients: vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, silicon, Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria
.
• Form: capsules
.
• Packaging: 90 capsules
.
• Sufficient for: 3 months
.

See price

Product description

Iodine + Selenium probio dietary supplement is a combination of iodine, selenium, vitamin B12 and probioticós. The product formula is designed to support thyroid health and normal intestinal flora. 

Iodine and selenium are key micronutrients essential for proper thyroid function. In turn, millions of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis, help to maintain a healthy intestinal environment. 

The following is a supplementary vitamin.

Additionally, vitamin B12 supports normal energy metabolism and the nervous system. The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

Pros and cons

Iodine + Selenium probio dietary supplement is a combination of iodine, selenium, vitamin B12 and probioticós. The product formula is designed to support thyroid health and normal intestinal flora. 

Iodine and selenium are key micronutrients essential for proper thyroid function. In turn, millions of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis, help to maintain a healthy intestinal environment. 

The following is a supplementary vitamin.

Additionally, vitamin B12 supports normal energy metabolism and the nervous system. The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

Additional information

Iodine + Selenium probio dietary supplement is a combination of iodine, selenium, vitamin B12 and probioticós. The product formula is designed to support thyroid health and normal intestinal flora. 

Iodine and selenium are key micronutrients essential for proper thyroid function. In turn, millions of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis, help to maintain a healthy intestinal environment. 

The following is a supplementary vitamin.

Additionally, vitamin B12 supports normal energy metabolism and the nervous system. The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

The product is an excellent choice for people with thyroid problems and intestinal disorders.

See also:

• Probiotic before or after antibiotics?
.

Intestinal ailments

One of the most important benefits of probiotics is their ability to relieve intestinal ailments. This is because probiotics help to maintain the balance of the gut microflora, which is crucial to the proper functioning of the digestive system. When this balance is disrupted, for example by illness or a diet low in fibre, you may experience a variety of gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhoea, constipation or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)and.

Some strains of probiotics also have anti-inflammatory properties, meaning that they can help relieve inflammation in the gut that accompanies conditions such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. They work by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokinesand.

In addition, probiotics can support gut health in other ways. They help with digestion and nutrient absorption, support the gut's natural protective barrier, and support the production of mucus that lining the gut .

Remember, however, that although probiotics can be helpful, they are not a substitute for either a healthy diet and lifestyle or appropriate treatment for bowel conditions. It is always a good idea to consult your doctor or dietitian before starting probiotic supplementation, especially if you suffer from any chronic conditions.

See also:

• Probiotics for Irritable Bowel Syndrome
.

Exotic travel

When you travel to exotic countries, you often eat different things than you would at home. You also expose yourself to new bacteria and viruses that can upset the balance of bacterial flora in your digestive system. And this can end up in gastrointestinal complaints that can spoil the whole trip.

By taking probiotics prophylactically for about two weeks before and during your trip, you make it more difficult for other 'exotic' types of pathogenic bacteria to colonise your gut. Probiotics will hinder them from colonising, competing with them for food, and producing substances that contribute to the death of pathogensand.

They also help the body to digest effectively and help rid the body of toxins. By strengthening the intestinal barrier, they will also reduce the amount of harmful substances and viruses entering the bloodstream .

Strengthening immunity

Your body is home to trillions of bacteria. Many of these are found in your digestive tract, forming what we call the gut microbiota. The microbiota has a direct impact on your immunity. Why? Because around 70% of immune cells are found right in your digestive tractand.

Probiotics, as part of this microbiota, help to maintain a balance between 'good' and 'bad' bacteria. When this balance is maintained, your immune system works effectively. Probiotics can help fight infections by stimulating antibody production and supporting immune cell activityand.

Additionally, probiotics are able to produce special substances called short chain fatty acids ( short chain fatty acids - SCFAs). These substances nourish the intestinal epithelial cells, which helps to maintain their health and integrity. This allows fewer pathogenic organisms and toxins to pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream, which means less work for the immune systemand.

Decreased mood

Some strains of probiotic bacteria are so-called psychobiotics. Research shows that taking psychobiotics can help people suffering from anxiety disorders. Some psychobiotics have also been shown to alleviate symptoms of depressionand.

How is it possible that gut-dwelling microbes can affect mood? This happens through the gut-brain axis. This bidirectional link allows communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the nervous systemand.

When something affects your gut - whether it's food, stress or illness - the gut bacteria respond. They communicate these changes to the brain through various channels, such as the nervous system, the immune system and hormones. For example, they can send chemical signals (neurotransmitters such as serotonin or dopamine) that affect how you feel and thinkand.

On the other hand, your brain also communicates with your gut. When you are under stress, it sends signals to your gut that can change the composition and function of your gut bacteriaand. This can lead to a variety of gastrointestinal complaints. This is why many people experience nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and even vomiting when they experience severe stress or anxiety.

When to take a probiotic while on antibiotics?

Probiotic while on antibiotics is best to start taking from the first day of antibiotic therapy. Taking a product with beneficial bacterial cultures should be continued for about two more weeks after the cessation of treatment, so that the intestinal flora can completely regenerateand.

And when exactly to ingest a probiotic - before or after an antibiotic? It depends on the specific remedy. Some manufacturers recommend that probiotic preparations should be taken in the morning, at least half an hour before the first meal and before taking the first antibiotic dose of the day. Others advise doing so approximately 2-3 hours after taking the antibiotic.

One thing is certain - never swallow a probiotic capsule together with an antibiotic tablet. The drug will destroy most of the bacteria before they can reach and colonise the gut. Although there are strains that are resistant to the antibiotic.

Magister of Pharmacy explains further that bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus are usually susceptible to: 

• penicillin, 
.
• ampicillin, 
.
• ampicillin with sulbactam, 
.
• quinupristin with dalfopristin, 
.
• chloramphenicol,
.
• linezolid,
.

In contrast, they can cope in the presence of: 

• rimethoprim, 
.
• trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, 
.
• vancomycin, 
.
• teicoplanin,
.
• fusidic acid, 
• streptomycin, 
• streptomycin, 
.
• oxytetracycline, 
.
• clindamycin,
.

Bifidobacteria, on the other hand, show sensitivity to:

• cephalothin, 
.
• chloramphenicol, 
.
• gentamicin, 
.
• linkomycin, 
.
• methronidazole, 
.
• neomycin, 
.
• paromomycin, 
.
• streptomycin, 
.
• tetracycline,
.
• vancomycin (but this is variable and species-dependent).
.

Probiotic before or after eating?

Most experts recommend taking probiotics about 30 minutes before eating, when gastric juices are not yet as active as they are after a meal. In some cases, taking probiotics while eating may also be a good option. The foods you consume can also help protect the probiotic bacteria from being destroyed in the acidic environment of the stomach.

Well, before or during a meal? The answer to this question is not as simple as it might seem, as it depends on a number of factors, including the type of probiotic and the purpose for which it is taken.

It is commonly believed that probiotics are best taken on an empty stomach. Why? Because when your stomach is empty, it produces less stomach acid, which can destroy some probiotic strains. Taking probiotics about 30 minutes before eating can increase the chances of survival of these delicate organismsand.

However, not all probiotics work in the same way. Some probiotic strains are resistant to stomach acid and can be taken at any time, independent of meals. In this case, the most important thing is to take probiotics regularly, regardless of the time of dayand.

Additionally, if you are taking probiotics to relieve digestion-related symptoms such as bloating or discomfort, it is better to take them just before eating.

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The best solution is always to consult your doctor or pharmacist, who can help you determine when and how to take a particular probiotic preparation, taking into account your individual needs and health condition.

Probiotic in the morning or evening?

Most experts recommend taking probiotics on an empty stomach, when stomach acid levels are at their lowest. Therefore, many people choose to take probiotics in the morning, on an empty stomach, before breakfast. This is usually the best time to ensure maximum absorption and benefit to the body.

However, some studies suggest that certain strains of probiotic bacteria may be more effective if taken in the evening or before bedtime. During this time, digestive processes are slower, giving probiotics more time to survive and colonise the gutand.

Some probiotics may also be specifically designed to be taken at a specific time of day, for example, those targeted at improving sleep may be best for taking in the evening.

The most important thing is to remember to take probiotics regularly. Choose the time that best suits your lifestyle and diet to maintain continuity. If in doubt, always consult your doctor or pharmacist to find out which probiotic and when to take it will serve you best.

How many times a day to take a probiotic?

The number of daily servings of a probiotic should be specified by the manufacturer of the product in question. It is a good idea to follow it strictly - unless your doctor advises you to take a different dosage. Do not increase the number of servings you take on your own, as excess probiotics can lead to SIBO syndrome, a condition of overgrowth of bacterial flora in the gutand.

Most probiotic preparations are taken once or twice daily.

Summary