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On Fitness Blog by U.S. News & World Report

Probiotics Aren't for Everyone

February 21, 2008 01:28 PM ET | Katherine Hobson | Permanent Link | Print

Reader Comments

probiotics may not be for everyone

I recently decided to try some probiotics since I have been on some various meds thay may have been affecting my gut. Well, I became severely bloated with a tender abdomen. This persisted. My 24 1/2 inch waist increased to 29 inches. This bloating was very uncomfortable and unsightly. So I stopped the probiotics, did a purge with Epsom salts, waited until that had gotten into my small intestines, then followed with a Cipro. I ate a bland diet of rice that day. The following morning (whichh is actually today) the bloating was gone. I think I will wait before I start another course of probiotics unless there seems to be a good reason for me to supplement my intestinal flora. I will take another Cipro today and see how things progress.

You need the right bacteria for you

Indeed, probiotics are not for everyone. Furthermore, not all probiotic strains are for all people. Different strains of bacteria actually have different effects on the immune/digestive system. I think it's really important to choose the right product. In the UK we have a small brand called Dtecta which does 7 different products according to different health conditions. eg. one for people who get a lot of flus, or one for people who suffer from bloating. I'd really recommend getting this sort of probiotic supplement - one tailored for your needs.

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About On Fitness

Senior Writer Katherine Hobson writes about keeping your body fit and your diet healthy—and what those phrases actually mean, according to science. A longtime endurance athlete, she enjoys both training and Nutella in moderation. Ask her your burning exercise and nutrition questions at onfitness@usnews.com. Follow Katherine on Twitter at twitter.com/katherinehobson.

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