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ZOE Science & Nutrition
Antibiotics: The surprising truth about probiotics and what to do instead
Aug 17, 2023
Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gastroenterologist, and Prof. Tim Spector, a nutritional epidemiologist, dive into the unexpected consequences of antibiotics on gut health. They discuss how clindamycin can disrupt beneficial bacteria while posing risks for gut infections. Probiotics' role is debated, with a focus on the advantages of fermented foods over commercial options. Recovery strategies, including increased fiber and plant diversity, are highlighted as essential for nurturing gut health post-antibiotics. Their insights reveal that thoughtful choices can significantly impact gut recovery.
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Quick takeaways
- Taking antibiotics can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to issues like diarrhea, but certain probiotics and fermented foods can aid in restoring gut health.
- Balancing and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can be achieved by consuming a high-fiber diet, reducing ultra-processed foods, practicing time-restricted eating, and prioritizing healthy behaviors like sleep and exercise.
Deep dives
The Impact of Antibiotics on Gut Microbes
Taking antibiotics can have a significant impact on gut microbiomes, causing an imbalance between good and bad bacteria. Antibiotics such as quin-domycin, which is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, can disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to issues like diarrhea and a higher risk of developing infections like C-diff. While recovery from antibiotic-induced dysbiosis is usually seen within eight weeks, some individuals may take longer to restore a healthy gut microbiome. Taking certain probiotics, like sacramises boulardii, can help minimize the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, but the choice of probiotic should be tailored to individual cases. Additionally, incorporating fermented foods into the diet, which are rich in diverse microbes, can aid in restoring gut health. Overall, maintaining a high-fiber diet, avoiding ultra-processed foods, practicing time-restricted eating, and prioritizing healthy behaviors like sleep and exercise can support the recovery and maintenance of a healthy gut microbiome.
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