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),

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.

(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

Bill Evans is President of Applied Health Solutions, suppliers of high-end nutritional supplements and antiaging products.

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

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