Frequently Asked Probiotic Questions
The main defences against pathogens ( viruses, bacteria’s, parasites) entering the body is a persons skin surface that is colonised with billions of microorganisms, that is called our skin flora. Our respiratory tract is lined with tiny hairs that warm and filter what enters our body and when a pathogen is swallowed our gastric (stomach) acid level is often able to kill them. Either physical defences stop the entry or physical actions try and destroy the pathogen if it does get to enter the body. Our body has an amazing innate intelligence to ward of the possibility of getting sick through the exposure of pathogens . Our immune system is incredible but it is part of a relationship with our mind as well. It is well documented that stress particularly long term or chronic stress can have a detrimental effect on the individuals immune system.
Our first line responses in trying to prevent illness is recognised as hand washing and currently hand sanitisation. We must be aware though we are killing both our normal flora and pathogens on our hands when we use alcohol based sanitiser, it not being selective in what flora it kills. We should be mindful of long term use of such sanitiser may possibly lead to a compromised skin flora colonisation issue thus directly adversely effecting the immune system.
We must have a multi modal mindset and approach to our immune system. Ensuring we give the appropriate care and modalities to naturally raising it and strengthening it by eating a nutritious diet, exercising, fostering a growth mindset and nurturing our nervous system through such practices as deep breathing, yoga, meditation and laughter.
There is along history in the use of modifying the gut microbiota with non pathogenic bacteria such as Lactic Acid Bacteria to help manage intestinal auto intoxication and some possible resultant medical conditions. (World Gastroenterology Organisation Global Guidelines)
Probiotics are live microorganisms , a common one is lactobacillus bifidobacterium. These bacteria
have a direct and indirect likely negative effect on the well-being of the person if they do-not have the correct therapeutic level of specific bacteria in their body. Particularly of importance is the persons Gastro intestinal tract hosting enough beneficial bacteria in where should be the largest colonisation which is in their large intestine.
There is much clinical evidence and antidotal evidence to support the view probiotics can be a helpful treatment strategy to promote the general health and wellbeing by supporting the regulation of intestinal transit, normalise unhealthy bacteria and inhibit the growth of potential pathogenic microorganisms in the person that would make them unwell.
The goal of a general type of probiotic such as the one we administer orally or rectally at GUTFIT is primarily used to support digestive health and colonisation of the large intestine.
We know that around 70% of the immune system is located in the large intestine so it makes sense if the intestine is healthy so is your immune system. This is important in the current situation of potential exposure to viruses and bacteria’s as we approach the season of winter.While appropriate hand washing and sanitising is very important , treating yourself by raising your defence system through a strong Gut defence is imperative to short and long term health and well-being.
Over 40 trillion bacteria cells reside in the colon of a adult human being. The microbial diversity between each person can be influenced by their individual genes, dietary intake, lifestyle choices, whether they have had previous infections , medical conditions, medications they are taking , with many more factors that influence an individual’s intestinal ecosystem.
One of our most popular Colonic treatments at GUTFIT is after the administration of a regular filtered water colonic we infuse via a special cylinder. Many clients who choose this type of colonic additive do so to support their bodies when they are under stress, taken antibiotics, on medication that can interfere with their microbiota, have travelled or will be travelling . Many of these clients take a daily probiotic but like to feel the benefit of giving their body a boost of good beneficial bacteria.
The therapists at GUTFIT regularly are asked questions about the probiotic colonic so we have put together a question and answer section for you:
1. How long does it take for the probiotic to start working?
If taken rectally verses orally for some individuals they may notice a change in their presenting symptoms such as bloating, normality of bowel movements and less flatus ( gas) within a few days ( particularly if given rectally) . For others symptom relief can take longer even up to 3-4 weeks. Over time you may notice a change in your mood with less anxiety symptoms occurring if that was a concern for you.
The key is to make sure you are supporting your body with the daily intake of a oral probiotic and ensuring your daily diet contains prebiotic such as fermented foods, as prebiotics feed the good bacteria in your intestine. It also depends on what symptoms you have and if you have any underlying medical conditions and your general health.
2. How long does the effect of rectal probiotics for?
This can partially depend on the amount and species of bacteria you are given. It also depends on why you had the probiotic, if for general health then you can generally expect if you also implement supportive practices such as balanced diet and management of stress response that the body should colonised the bacteria given and keep exerting it’s effect for several months.
Everyone’s Large intestines is so different in its responses so it is a very individual measure.
You maybe able to tell that you need a top up of probiotic if your symptoms you were originally using them for start appearing again. So some a dose of probiotic is a rapid fix for others with chronic condition it can take along time and patience but worth it in the end when you finally feel full of energy and happier in your mindset.
3. Should l take my oral probiotic after a rectal infusion?
It is best to let you body over the next week or so after rectal probiotics settle. More is not necessarily better. You may get some responses such as some bloating after a probiotic so it is better not to exacerbate your symptoms by taking more.
Moderation is always the best approach . If too much in frequency or volume is administered some people may experience increased flatus, nausea and bloating for a short time
4. What type of bacteria do you give me?
We use a general probiotic formula that is designed to ensure you receive a correct dose of good , beneficial bacteria, most people this is exactly what their body requires.
We need therapeutic levels of beneficial bacteria to keep ourselves functioning in a state of wellness. Around 90 percent of the cells required to produce serotonin (a neuro transmitter that stabilises mood) are located in the large intestine so it makes sense that is your large intestine is not in peak performance mode than it is likely nor will your mental state be.
5. Are there any associated side effects of probiotics?
When first taking probiotics some people may experience an increase to varying degrees in their symptoms. Don’t be alarmed if you are one of theses people. It is usually very short lived and isn’t a side effect of the treatment rather an effect of the probiotic on your intestine as it kills off pathogens and attempts to establish more beneficial bacteria.
The gut microbiota levels are changing and as a result often initially more gas is produced in response. A persons individual intestinal eco system can direct effect their immune mechanisms
If diarrhoea does occur try taking the probiotic at the end of a meal which can help reduce the change in bowel motility
Supporting your body to maintain a well balanced community of bacteria is paramount to good health.
6. How do we know about our microbiome
The community of micro organisms that live both on us and within us are referred to as our microbiome.
The Human Microbiome Project was a key research body that mapped the normal bacteria that humans have. They are researching the possible links between changes to a persons microbiome and various disease states.
7. Should l take my probiotic when also taking antibiotics?
Taking probiotics when concurrently taking prescribed antibiotics can assist some people not to experience diarrhoea that can occur in some people. Often a broad spectrum antibiotic can kill off the beneficial bacteria as well as the pathogen. If you wish to take a probiotic take this at least 2-4 hours before or after your antibiotic is taken.
Probiotics can also help to restore the gut bacteria after you finish your course of antibiotics
You body needs support after fighting an infection, pathogens so ensuring your diet is well balanced, nourishing and taking daily oral or rectal infusion as required can really help you thrive again.
8. Is rectal probiotics better than taking them orally?
So not better just different . Both ways can improve ( up regulate) a persons microbiome with beneficial bacteria that can lead to many positive health outcomes. Verses not asking a probiotic regardless of how administered which could adversely Impact the persons intestinal environment causing dysbiosis ( too much unbenefical bacteria) and down regulation occurs, maybe leading to ill health and disease.
When probiotics are given rectally ( like at GUTFIT) the bacteria administered goes straight to the large intestine and doesn’t have to make the longer journey from the mouth which may cause some of the beneficial bacteria to be destroyed along the way. Rectally given we are able to ensure the best chance for colonisation of the beneficial bacteria to occur with many fewer variables.
8.What physical conditions are Probiotics good for?
Studies have documented probiotics clinical applications include the prevention and treatment of acute diarrhoea , including antibiotic associated. Irritable bowel syndrome with a reduction in abdominal bloating and flatulence in these people. Eczema, vaginal health, constipation,diarrhoea,inflammatory bowel disease.
9. What else can l do to support my immune system?
Stress less by managing it through whatever modality helps you most, whether that be deep breathing, going for a walk, yoga, going for a run, mediation, frequent rest breaks from work
We know a good dose of vitamin D preferably via sunshine helps our body’s immune system and mental health.
Diet ensuring rich in seasonal nutritious foods
Any of course colonics a regular self care practice of this treatment can greatly improve your GUT health and overall general wellbeing.
Talk to your therapist at GutFit Health so they can assist you in designing and implementing an individualised GUT health program incorporation Colonic Therapy, including probiotic colonics.