Taking Probiotics with a Stomach Ulcer: Benefits and Risks

Are you one of the many people who struggle with the relentless pain and discomfort of stomach ulcers? Despite trying every medication in the book, it seems like the suffering just won't end, right? Maybe, it’s time to complement your treatment methods with the power of probiotics! 

But you might be wondering, ‘Can I take probiotics with a stomach ulcer?’ In this blog post, we'll journey into the world of probiotics and see if they can offer you the relief you’ve been longing for. Come, let’s explore the potential benefits and risks of using probiotics to fight stomach ulcers!

Understanding stomach ulcers

Have you ever felt like someone has set your stomach ablaze? Chances are you’re suffering from a stomach ulcer. Now, before you run off to buy antibiotics or antacids, why not take some time to assess your situation? Probably a gut imbalance might’ve triggered this condition. Let’s see whether you can take probiotics with a stomach ulcer and ease the symptoms. But what is a stomach ulcer? 

A stomach ulcer, often referred to as a gastric ulcer, is an open sore that forms on the inner lining of the stomach. Stomach acid wears away at the mucosa, the lining that protects the stomach wall, causing this condition and resulting in painful sores. Stomach ulcers are a subset of peptic ulcer disease, a condition that also includes duodenal ulcers, which occur in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.

Causes of stomach ulcers

Stomach ulcers can be painful and uncomfortable, but what causes it? Though the interaction of stomach acid with your protective stomach lining can create open sores, how does it happen? Look at the following factors that can lead to the development of stomach ulcers:

• H.pylori infection: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a type of bacteria that is found on the lining of your stomach. They can survive in the harsh acidic environment of the stomach and are generally harmless. However, when they outgrow and continue to multiply, they can eat into your stomach lining, causing inflammation. Over time, this can result in the formation of ulcers. 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, can irritate the stomach lining and impair its ability to protect itself from acid, giving rise to ulcers.

Besides these factors, your lifestyle also plays a role in promoting ulcers. If you’re too fond of spicy and acidic foods or indulge in excessive smoking or drinking, be prepared to experience the next level of pain and discomfort associated with these sores.

Symptoms and diagnosis

Now that you’ve learned what causes stomach ulcers, let’s see how you can identify the condition. Do you feel extremely uncomfortable when your stomach is empty, especially between meals or at night? Maybe you became better after eating or taking antacids. But alas, these symptoms are not gone for long. Look out for the following signs to confirm if you’re dealing with a stomach ulcer:

• Burning or gnawing abdominal pain
• Persistent indigestion
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Unexpected weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Presence of blood in vomit or stools (in extreme cases)

So, you’ve determined you have a stomach ulcer. The next step is to diagnose it. The following are the most common methods to confirm the occurrence of a stomach ulcer:  

• Endoscopy: It is a process where the doctor inserts a flexible tube with a camera through the mouth to view the stomach and duodenum. This allows for a direct look at the ulcer. 
• Breath test: The breath test involves drinking a solution containing a tiny amount of radioactive material that H. pylori breaks down, producing carbon dioxide that can be measured in the breath.
• Additional tests: Blood and stool are also analysed to detect the presence of H. pylori. 

As H. pylori infection is the root cause of stomach ulcers, treatment methods have been aimed at eradicating this bacterium. While antibiotics remain the standard treatment, sometimes, you might benefit from alternative or complementary therapies. So, let’s see how probiotics fit the bill!

Probiotics: A brief overview

Are you fed up dealing with the extreme discomfort and pain of stomach ulcers? Do you feel like antibiotics and antacids are no match for the condition? Let’s drive the debate of whether you can take probiotics with a stomach ulcer by learning more about the role of beneficial bacteria.

Probiotics are like little helpers for your gut. They're live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system, showing up naturally in your bodies and foods like yoghurt and sauerkraut. These helpful microbes belong mainly to the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families, along with a robust yeast named Saccharomyces boulardii.

What sets these friendly microbes apart is their ability to make your gut a healthier place. By keeping and bringing back the natural balance of gut bacteria, probiotics not only boost digestion but also support your immune system. They also keep harmful bacteria at bay, giving your gut the support it needs. But how do they help with treating stomach ulcers? Let’s find out!

Benefits of probiotics for stomach ulcers

You’re probably familiar with the benefits of probiotics in relieving digestive issues like bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea. But stomach ulcer? Don’t be amazed; these beneficial bacteria might be just what you need to heal your sores and strengthen your stomach lining. So, let’s see whether taking probiotics with a stomach ulcer can offer the desired results. Here’s how these tiny organisms help you overcome this condition and soothe your symptoms:

• Combats H. pylori growth: One of the most prevalent causes of stomach ulcers is the infection by Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacteria that disrupts the stomach lining. Studies have found that incorporating probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium into one's diet can effectively slow down the growth of H. pylori and mitigate its harmful effects. This reduces ulcer formation and relieves gastric tissue damage.
• Improves gut health: A well-balanced gut microbiome is crucial for proper digestion and healing of the stomach lining, and probiotics help achieve this balance. By repopulating the digestive tract with beneficial bacteria, probiotics can help calm an upset stomach and minimise symptoms associated with ulcers, like heartburn and pain.
• Reduces inflammation: Stomach inflammation exacerbates ulcer pain. Probiotics possess anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate such inflammation. They help strengthen the stomach's protective lining and promote the production of beneficial compounds like prostaglandins. These effects not only aid in soothing gastric irritation but also accelerate the healing process, making probiotics a valuable tool in managing ulcer symptoms. 

Did you know probiotics can also help with weight management? Try using The Good Bug’s Metabolically Lean probiotic and see the results for yourself. Many users have shared their experiences of incorporating this product into their daily lives and witnessing positive changes.

Now, you might think probiotics are all good, so why not say bye to stomach ulcers straight away? But wait; you’ll be inviting more trouble if you’re not aware of the potential risks.

Potential risks of using probiotics with stomach ulcers

Having learned that probiotics can reduce inflammation and inhibit the growth of H. pylori bacteria, it might have planted an idea in your mind to try using them. Well, that’s a great first step. But taking probiotics shouldn’t be any different from charting your life or health goals. Knowing what can hinder your path will help you plan better. So far, you’ve only seen the bright side of probiotics; let’s flip the coin and see their potential side effects. This will enable you to identify whether you can take probiotics with a stomach ulcer:

• Digestive discomfort: If you’re starting a new probiotic supplement, be prepared to experience digestive woes, such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. This happens because your body is adjusting to the introduction of new microbial flora, which can often lead to mild abdominal pain or cramping.
• Allergic reactions: Though it's uncommon, allergic reactions to specific probiotic strains can occur. If you experience any severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or swelling, seek immediate medical attention.

•  Interactions with medications It is important to consider how probiotics might interact with medications, especially for those dealing with stomach ulcers. Antibiotics, frequently used to treat H. pylori infections, can unintentionally kill beneficial bacteria, reducing the efficacy of probiotics. So, it’s best to wait a few days after finishing a course of antibiotics before starting a probiotic supplement. 

• Individual variations: The effectiveness and safety of probiotics can vary significantly from person to person due to differences in gut microbiota and overall health. Just because your close relative noticed improvements in their condition doesn’t guarantee probiotics might prove beneficial for you. Several factors such as general health, immune system status, and specific medical conditions like heart disease or other severe gastrointestinal disorders can alter how well you tolerate probiotics.

For vulnerable groups like pregnant or breastfeeding women, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting probiotics, given the limited research on safety for these populations. Moreover, since many probiotics are classified as dietary supplements and subjected to less stringent regulations, selecting a reputable brand and seeking advice from a healthcare professional can ensure product safety and quality.

Can I take probiotics with a stomach ulcer?

Are you still double-minded about whether you can take probiotics with a stomach ulcer despite knowing their benefits? Don’t hesitate but educate yourself on the potential risks and side effects. As probiotics promote better healing of the stomach lining, they’re a useful tool for combating stomach ulcers. 

However, the use of probiotics does not give you a break from other medications or antibiotics. When used alongside standard treatments, probiotics can provide a dual benefit: they reinforce the efforts to suppress harmful bacteria and support the gut’s natural flora, supporting overall digestive health. This approach can lead to better management of ulcer symptoms, such as persistent heartburn and bloating, which sometimes persist despite conventional therapy. 

So, what are the key factors to consider while using probiotics? When choosing probiotics for stomach ulcers, the following factors should be considered: 

• Specific probiotic strain
• The concentration of the probiotic strain measured in CFUs (colony-forming units)
• Dosage
• Your particular health goal

Consult a healthcare provider, as they can guide you on the right strains and dosages tailored to your specific needs, ensuring safe and effective integration into your treatment plan. 

So, can you take probiotics with a stomach ulcer? The answer isn't a simple yes or no. While probiotics offer numerous benefits for gut health, it's essential to understand whether they're right for you. Combining probiotics with traditional medical treatments might provide a more holistic approach to managing stomach ulcers effectively.

As you consider adding probiotics to your routine, ensure you are choosing high-quality products tailored to your specific health needs. The Good Bug stands out by offering a diverse range of probiotics and prebiotics designed to cater to various health goals. Visit our website to discover the right probiotic options for you and get ready to douse the fire!

References

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4906699/

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521691815001675

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/217533#1

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0924224421001783

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0058671

https://www.healthline.com/health/digestive-health/what-is-the-fastest-way-to-cure-a-stomach-ulcer

https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12602-024-10348-7