Probiotics: what it is and how much people take
Probiotics are live microorganisms meant to benefit the person who takes them. Studies have looked at diarrhoea linked to antibiotics, IBS and some infant conditions; effects depend on the strain and the condition. Studies have usually used 1 to 10 billion CFU per dose. Side effects are usually mild gut symptoms.
General information, not medical advice. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before taking a supplement, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take any medicine, or are under 18.
How much people take
| What studies looked at | Studies have looked at diarrhoea linked to antibiotics, IBS and some infant conditions; effects depend on the strain and the condition. |
|---|---|
| Amounts studies used | 1 to 10 billion CFU per dose. |
| Official upper limit | None set |
Cautions and interactions
- Side effects are usually mild gut symptoms.
- People who are very ill or have a weakened immune system should check with a doctor first.
Quick answers
- What is probiotics?
- Probiotics are live microorganisms meant to benefit the person who takes them.
- What has probiotics been studied for?
- Studies have looked at diarrhoea linked to antibiotics, IBS and some infant conditions; effects depend on the strain and the condition.
- How much probiotics do studies use?
- 1 to 10 billion CFU per dose.
- Is probiotics safe?
- Side effects are usually mild gut symptoms. People who are very ill or have a weakened immune system should check with a doctor first.
Sources
- NIH Office of Dietary Supplements fact sheet
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Probiotics-HealthProfessional/
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