Viral gastroenteritis, commonly known as “stomach flu,” is a frequent and uncomfortable ailment affecting the digestive system. While many people seek ways to alleviate its symptoms, understanding the potential role of beneficial microorganisms, known as probiotics, can offer clarity.
What Are Stomach Flu and Probiotics?
Stomach flu is medically termed viral gastroenteritis, an infection causing inflammation in the stomach and intestines. This condition typically results in symptoms such as watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps. Although often viral, it can also stem from bacterial or parasitic infections. It is highly contagious, usually resolving on its own, but can lead to dehydration if fluids are not adequately replaced.
Probiotics are live microorganisms, including certain bacteria and yeasts, that provide health benefits to the host when consumed in appropriate amounts. They are naturally present in some fermented foods and are also available as dietary supplements.
How Probiotics Help with Stomach Flu
Certain probiotic strains may offer benefits by potentially reducing the duration and severity of symptoms associated with acute gastroenteritis. These beneficial effects are thought to occur through several mechanisms within the gut. Probiotics can help restore a balanced gut environment, which is often disrupted during an infection.
These microorganisms also contribute to strengthening the intestinal barrier. They can enhance the production of mucins and tight junction proteins, which are important for maintaining the integrity of the gut lining and preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. Additionally, probiotics interact with immune cells in the gut, modulating the body’s immune response. This interaction can involve promoting anti-inflammatory responses and stimulating the production of protective antibodies like IgA.
Among the specific strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) has been extensively studied. Some research indicates that LGG can reduce the duration of diarrhea in children experiencing acute gastroenteritis. However, some larger, well-designed studies, particularly involving children with acute gastroenteritis, have not found a significant difference in symptom duration or severity when using LGG compared to a placebo.
Another well-researched probiotic is Saccharomyces boulardii, a beneficial yeast. This strain may help shorten the duration of diarrhea, particularly in cases of rotaviral diarrhea in children and traveler’s diarrhea. Unlike bacterial probiotics, Saccharomyces boulardii can be taken concurrently with antibiotics without being affected by them. While some evidence suggests it may reduce symptom duration in adults with viral gastroenteritis by about 1 to 1.5 days, the American Gastroenterological Association does not recommend its routine use for gastroenteritis in children due to inconsistent evidence.
Practical Advice for Using Probiotics
When considering probiotics for stomach flu, timing can be flexible, though consistency is often more important than whether they are taken with or without food. Taking probiotics at the onset of symptoms or during recovery is a common approach.
Probiotics are available in various forms, including dietary supplements like capsules, powders, and liquids, as well as in fermented foods such as yogurt and kefir. Dosage is typically measured in Colony Forming Units (CFUs), and it is advisable to follow the specific instructions provided on the product label.
While generally considered safe for healthy individuals, mild and temporary side effects such as gas, bloating, or mild diarrhea can occur when first starting probiotics. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using probiotics, especially for infants, young children, or individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. Probiotics are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be relied upon as a sole cure for stomach flu.