Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits, while stomach ulcers are open sores on the stomach’s inner lining. Ulcers often cause a burning sensation, and their connection to beneficial microbes is a subject of scientific investigation. Researchers are exploring how introducing certain microorganisms might influence the stomach’s environment and affect ulcer healing.
The Link Between Helicobacter Pylori and Ulcers
Many stomach ulcers are caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which can survive in the stomach’s highly acidic environment. It colonizes the stomach lining and, over time, can cause inflammation and damage. This damage weakens the protective mucus layer, allowing stomach acid to create painful ulcers.
While a large portion of the global population is infected with H. pylori, many will not develop ulcers. An estimated 10% to 20% of those with the infection will eventually develop a peptic ulcer. The standard medical approach involves antibiotics to eradicate the bacteria, alongside medications that reduce stomach acid.
Probiotics as a Supportive Therapy for Ulcers
The antibiotic treatment required to eliminate H. pylori can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, often leading to side effects like diarrhea and nausea. Probiotics can help manage these gastrointestinal issues by replenishing beneficial bacteria. This action may improve a person’s ability to complete the full course of antibiotics.
Scientific reviews indicate that using probiotics alongside conventional treatment can improve the eradication rates of H. pylori. One analysis found that 84% of patients who supplemented with probiotics achieved complete eradication, compared to 70% of those who only received the standard therapy. This suggests that probiotics can enhance the effectiveness of antibiotics in clearing the infection.
Some research points to a more direct role of probiotics in managing H. pylori. Certain probiotic strains appear to compete with H. pylori for adhesion spots on gastric epithelial cells. Probiotics may also stimulate the production of antimicrobial compounds that inhibit H. pylori and support the stomach’s mucosal barrier, reinforcing natural defenses.
Specific Probiotic Strains and Sources
Research has identified several types of probiotics useful for H. pylori infections, with the most studied being from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera. Strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus can inhibit H. pylori activity and support the healing of the stomach lining. The strain Bifidobacterium bifidum CECT 7366 has also demonstrated effectiveness in laboratory conditions.
Another beneficial microorganism is Saccharomyces boulardii, a type of yeast. Studies show that S. boulardii can help reduce the side effects associated with antibiotic therapy for H. pylori and may contribute to higher eradication rates by helping to maintain a healthy gut flora.
These beneficial microbes can be obtained from fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and kimchi. For supporting ulcer treatment, however, probiotic supplements are often recommended. Supplements deliver a higher, more standardized dose measured in Colony Forming Units (CFUs), which may be more effective alongside medical treatment.
Integrating Probiotics with Conventional Ulcer Treatment
Before adding any supplement to a treatment regimen, consult with a healthcare provider. For individuals undergoing antibiotic therapy for an H. pylori-induced ulcer, the timing of probiotic consumption is a practical consideration. It is often suggested to take probiotics several hours apart from the antibiotic doses. This spacing helps prevent the antibiotics from neutralizing the beneficial bacteria.
The duration of probiotic use can also extend beyond the antibiotic course. Many healthcare professionals advise continuing probiotics for a few weeks after finishing the antibiotics. This continuation helps to re-establish a healthy gut microbiome, which may have been diminished by the treatment.
Probiotic supplement dosages are measured in CFUs, and the amounts used in clinical studies for supporting H. pylori treatment are often in the billions. The appropriate dosage can vary depending on the specific strain and the individual’s health status. A doctor can provide personalized guidance based on the patient’s medical needs.