Quick access to main page (top) Direct access to main contents Quick access to main page (bottom)

Are Probiotics Overrated? Experts Urge Caution Over Gut Health Claims

wikitree Views  

Recently, claims have emerged that probiotics, often considered essential supplements, may actually have little effect.

The probiotic market, which has grown into a multibillion-dollar industry, has become widely recognized among consumers as an essential supplement for improving gut health. However, experts are urging a more cautious approach to these marketing claims.

Dr. Trisha Pasricha, a gastroenterologist in Boston, Massachusetts, has pointed out that the scientific evidence supporting probiotics’ ability to enhance gut microbiota and improve digestive health, mental well-being, and other conditions remains insufficient.

In a column for The Washington Post, Dr. Pasricha stated that scientific research proving probiotics’ effectiveness is still limited. While over 1,000 clinical trials have been conducted, variations in bacterial strains, dosages, and research methodologies make it difficult to draw clear conclusions. She also noted that the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) does not recommend probiotics for most digestive disorders.

Photo to aid understanding of the article / Doucefleur-shutterstock.com
Photo to aid understanding of the article / Doucefleur-shutterstock.com

If probiotics aren’t the key to gut health, what is?

Dr. Pasricha recommends a high-fiber diet as the most effective approach. She warned that a low-fiber diet can lead to the loss of beneficial gut bacteria, negatively impacting overall health. She emphasized that consuming various vegetables, nuts, and fermented foods is far more effective in maintaining gut health.

She further advised consumers to rely on scientifically proven methods rather than products with uncertain scientific backing. She suggested alternative approaches based on scientific data may be a better option.

Despite the skepticism surrounding their general use, there are certain cases where probiotics may be beneficial.

For instance, they can help prevent intestinal infections that may occur during antibiotics and reduce the risk of pouchitis in patients recovering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

However, Dr. Pasricha maintains that probiotics may not be necessary for the average person seeking to improve gut health.

Photo to aid understanding of the article / Diana Krykavska-shutterstock.com
Photo to aid understanding of the article / Diana Krykavska-shutterstock.com
wikitree
content@viewusglobal.com

Comments0

300

Comments0

[LIFESTYLE] Latest Stories

  • Are Your Favorite Foods Actually Aging You? The Truth About Glycotoxins
  • Best Workouts for Your Knees: Keeping Arthritis at Bay
  • 5 Unexpected Benefits of Chewing Gum
  • Sugar-Free Doesn't Always Mean Safe: Health Risks of Zero-Calorie Sodas
  • Choosing the Best Yogurt: Tips for Optimum Health Benefits
  • Best and Worst Pork Cuts for Weight Loss: What You Need to Know

You May Also Like

  • 1
    ID.EVERY1: Volkswagen's $21K Electric Vehicle Aims to Make Green Driving Accessible

    BUSINESS 

  • 2
    Toyota’s bZ3X SUV Surges with 10,000 Pre-Orders: A New Era in EVs

    BUSINESS 

  • 3
    Telo Trucks' MT1: A 500-HP Compact Pickup That Packs Big Punch in a Small Frame

    BUSINESS 

  • 4
    Xiaomi’s Success vs. Apple’s Failure: What’s the Difference?

    DEBATE 

  • 5
    Mitsubishi Delica D:2 Facelift: New Design, Better Fuel Economy, and Enhanced Safety

    BUSINESS 

Popular Now

  • 1
    Major Vehicle Recall: Over 15,000 Cars Affected Across Multiple Brands in South Korea

    BUSINESS 

  • 2
    Blazer EV SS Hits New Highs: 615 Horsepower and 3.4-Second 0-60 Acceleration

    BUSINESS 

  • 3
    Trump Defends Tesla, Promises Action Against Violent Attacks

    DEBATE 

  • 4
    Land Rover’s New Defender 130: Luxury Meets Off-Road Performance in a Seven-Seater

    BUSINESS 

  • 5
    Honda's New NSX Successor: 1,000 HP Electric Supercar Expected by 2027

    BUSINESS 

Must-Reads

  • 1
    ID.EVERY1: Volkswagen's $21K Electric Vehicle Aims to Make Green Driving Accessible

    BUSINESS 

  • 2
    Toyota’s bZ3X SUV Surges with 10,000 Pre-Orders: A New Era in EVs

    BUSINESS 

  • 3
    Telo Trucks' MT1: A 500-HP Compact Pickup That Packs Big Punch in a Small Frame

    BUSINESS 

  • 4
    Xiaomi’s Success vs. Apple’s Failure: What’s the Difference?

    DEBATE 

  • 5
    Mitsubishi Delica D:2 Facelift: New Design, Better Fuel Economy, and Enhanced Safety

    BUSINESS 

Popular Now

  • 1
    Major Vehicle Recall: Over 15,000 Cars Affected Across Multiple Brands in South Korea

    BUSINESS 

  • 2
    Blazer EV SS Hits New Highs: 615 Horsepower and 3.4-Second 0-60 Acceleration

    BUSINESS 

  • 3
    Trump Defends Tesla, Promises Action Against Violent Attacks

    DEBATE 

  • 4
    Land Rover’s New Defender 130: Luxury Meets Off-Road Performance in a Seven-Seater

    BUSINESS 

  • 5
    Honda's New NSX Successor: 1,000 HP Electric Supercar Expected by 2027

    BUSINESS 

Share it on...