Should probiotics be taken on an empty stomach?

Microorganisms called probiotics are an important part of the entire body, especially the digestive tract. These are bacteria that, through interactions with the host cells, which are human cells, have a multidirectional effect on various aspects of health and well-being. While different probiotics can be adapted to different disorders, the recommendations regarding the time of use seem to be similar in all cases.

1. How do probiotics work?
2. What do probiotics help with?
3. How to take probiotics?

How do probiotics work?

Probiotics act at the interface between the intestinal lining and nerve endings, as well as blood and lymphatic vessels. They colonise the digestive tract, where they participate in the digestion of nutrients and the absorption of electrolytes, produce vitamins and protect against the entry of pathogenic microorganisms into the bloodstream. They produce biologically active compounds that modulate, among other things, the functioning of the nervous system by producing neurotransmitters, as well as the immune system by activating both innate and acquired immune mechanisms.

The interactions of probiotic bacteria and their metabolites with the human body affect the proper functioning of the digestive tract, mental well-being, metabolic health and resistance to infections. Taking care of the composition and number of bacteria in the intestines is almost as important as the level of many nutrients in the diet.

What do probiotics help with?

There is scientific evidence for the effectiveness of probiotics in many clinical cases. The latest meta-analyses, i.e. reviews of current scientific research, indicate the effectiveness of probiotics in regulating symptoms such as mastitis in women, atopic dermatitis (Lactobacillus strains), cognitive disorders, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, type 2 diabetes, seasonal inhalant allergies (Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains), liver disease (Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus strains), as well as other conditions affecting smaller groups of people. In addition, probiotics prevent microbiota disorders caused by the use of antibiotics and certain medications, as well as gastrointestinal complications during travel and dietary changes.

How to take probiotics?

For effective colonisation of the digestive tract by probiotic bacteria, it is generally recommended that probiotic therapy last for approximately 8 weeks. The doses of probiotics used can effectively colonise the intestines provided that they are delivered to the body in amounts of not less than 108 – 109 (100 million – 1 billion) colony-forming units per serving.

The current standard is for products in which the bacteria are protected from digestive enzymes in the stomach so that they reach the intestines in unchanged quantities. Due to the fact that probiotic bacteria participate in digestive processes and need water, antioxidants, fibre, proteins and sugars for their development, it is recommended to consume probiotic preparations before a meal. It is also important to ensure that the meal after taking the supplement does not consist of highly processed products and contains a large amount of vegetables.

Sources:

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