4 Benefits for Using Probiotic Supplements with Antibiotics

With the increase in proliferation of broad spectrum antibiotics, there has been an equivalent increase in chronic GI distress and yeast infections. As a result, it is now well-understood and recommended to take a supplement of Probiotics. Probiotics offer the following four benefits:

* Prevents diarrhea
* Prevents yeast infections
* Reduces symptoms of IBS
* Reduces frequency of antibiotics

Oral antibiotic therapy can alter gastrointestinal (GI) microflora and result in troublesome gastrointestinal complaints and vaginal yeast infections (1,2). The bacterial flora of the GI tract plays an important role in maintaining the health of the GI tract and protects against colonization by invasive pathogens (2). Supplementing with the "good" bacteria lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium has been shown to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and prevent antibiotic–associated diarrhea, traveler’s diarrhea, infectious diarrhea and vaginal yeast infections (3). This is not only beneficial for adults but can also help children who are constantly on antibiotics (4). Supplementing with probiotics may help reduce the frequency of antibiotics by up-regulating immune response (5).

Additional research continues to show the relationship of systemic yeast infections (Candida Albicans) with complaints about Chronic Fatigue Symptom (CFS), Fibromyalgia, Epstein Barr Virus, Lupus, M.S., Alzheimer's, Crohn's disease, as well as other chronic conditions.

In summary, antibiotics are certainly one of the greatest medical discoveries, saving countless lives when there was no other option. But the indiscriminant use that has become prevalent for minor infections has serious consequences that years later can develop into chronic symptoms that could have been minimized, if not alleviated entirely, if the recipient had simply supplemented with a high quality Probiotic.

For more information on pharmacist-preferred Probiotics, visit: Applied ProLine ProBiotics.

Applied Health Solutions, suppliers of high-end nutritional supplements and antiaging products.

(1) Witsell et al, Effect of lactobacillus acidophilus on antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal morbidity, J Otolaryngol 1995 Aug; 24(4):230-3
(2) Levy, The effects of antibiotic use on gastrointestinal function, Am J Gastroenterol 2000 Jan;95(1 suppl):s8-10
(3) Elmer et al, Biotherapeutic agents. A neglected modality for the treatment and prevention of selected intestinal and vaginal infections, JAMA 1996 Mar 20;275(11):870-6
(4) Vanderpool et al, Use of probiotics in childhood gastrointestinal disorders, J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 1998 Sep;27(3):323-32
(5) Erickson et al, Probiotic immunomodulation in health and disease, J Nutr 2000 Feb; 130(2S Suppl): 403s-409s

Why A Blog?

Since 1997, we have been actively involved in the health industry with our company Applied Health Solutions, Inc. As a proprietor of this type of company (especially over this many years) I have answered many a similar question, time and time again. And although I should know better, I cannot help but sometimes be surprised by the naïve nature of so many of the reoccurring questions. And we are all running so fast, trying just to keep up with today’s pace of life, most people do not have time to focus on learning about the “big picture” in health.

The disappointment for me is the recognition that the masses are not recognizing some of these big-picture messages. But I must remind myself that there is so much misinformation out there, how can I fault anybody but my own industry.

Oh sure, I could point fingers at the charlatans who make their grandiose claims with the latest cure-all. And I could point at some Federal organizations that are perhaps too heavily influenced by the pharmaceutical companies. I could certainly stand on a soapbox and talk until the cows come home about the lack of education with our fine medical establishments about nutrition and natural healing. And you know what? I just might do that, on occasion. However, when it comes right down to it, I too must accept responsibility for my part in these failures. I have not done all I can do to help educate the public. And for that, I bow my head in shame.

Back in the beginning of time (at least for our company), we began a newsletter to allow us a platform to delve deep into various topics that caught our attention. Frankly, most of the early newsletters simply reflected my frustrations with what I saw happening with my friends and associates regarding their health issues. We still use the newsletter, on occasion, for in-depth discussions on a topic of health or natural healing, but it does not lend itself to answering quick questions or discussing a day’s thought. This Blog is for that.

The primary purpose of this Blog is to answer, for those interested, many of the common questions I repeatedly hear. I will also be discussing the nature of some trends, newest health fads, and trying to weed through so much conflicting news about “the latest and greatest”. In other words, I will help you read between the lines. I will also occasionally tackle issues that are much more important for your immediate health. The topic that screams at me daily, which falls in this category, is the topic of “Drug Induced Nutrient Depletion”. Yeah, I know. It is a mouthful. But if you are routinely taking any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, this is information you want… [correction], this is information you *need*.

So with that said, welcome to my Blog. Stay tuned as I deliver a view of my industry from the inside; weeding out the hype, provoking some thoughts, perhaps pinching your guilt or opening your eyes, and sharing some health antidotes… while on the run.

Best regards,

Bill Evans
President
Applied Health Solutions, Inc.
www.appliedhealth.com

PS: If you would like to view our current newsletter, “Applied Health Journal”, please visit:
www.appliedhealth.com/ahs_digest/current_digest.html