Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host by supporting the balance of the gut microbiome. Teenagers can generally take probiotics, but this decision requires thoughtful consideration. Although many probiotics are widely available over the counter, any supplement should be discussed with a healthcare provider first. This consultation ensures the probiotic aligns with the teen’s specific health profile and needs, and that any underlying medical conditions are considered before starting supplementation.
Safety Profile and Potential Side Effects for Adolescents
Probiotics are recognized as safe for healthy adolescents, but potential side effects are common, though mild and temporary. Initial reactions involve the digestive system as the gut adjusts to the influx of new microbes. These effects may include increased intestinal gas, mild bloating, or minor changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or loose stools, which usually subside within a few weeks of consistent use.
A more serious, though rare, safety concern exists for specific populations. Probiotics are not recommended for teens who are immunocompromised, have a central venous catheter, or are critically ill, due to a small risk of developing a systemic infection. The FDA does not regulate probiotic supplements as drugs, meaning their purity and potency are not strictly guaranteed. Therefore, choosing products from reputable manufacturers is necessary.
Situations Where Probiotics May Be Recommended for Teens
Probiotics are frequently recommended for teenagers to mitigate the gastrointestinal distress that accompanies antibiotic use. Antibiotics eliminate beneficial gut flora alongside harmful pathogens, leading to microbial imbalance (dysbiosis). Probiotic supplementation, particularly with strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces boulardii, can help restore the gut microbiome balance, reducing the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD).
Beyond antibiotic recovery, certain strains manage symptoms of functional gastrointestinal disorders. For teens experiencing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) symptoms, such as abdominal pain, gas, and bloating, probiotics may offer relief. Specific multi-strain products containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species have been associated with improvements in these digestive complaints.
Another element is the connection between gut health and skin appearance, often called the gut-skin axis. Inflammatory processes in the gut can influence skin conditions like acne, a common teenage concern. Certain probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM or Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, may help by decreasing systemic inflammation and improving the gut microbiome, offering a complementary approach to traditional acne treatments.
Selecting Appropriate Strains and Dosages
The effectiveness of a probiotic depends on the specific strain, as each strain has unique functions. The two most common groups of bacteria used in supplements are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. Lactobacillus strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, are studied for preventing and treating diarrhea, while Bifidobacterium strains, such as Bifidobacterium lactis, are linked to overall gut health and immune support.
Probiotic dosage is measured in Colony-Forming Units (CFUs), which indicates the number of live microorganisms in a dose. While there are no standardized dosage guidelines specifically for adolescents, effective amounts in studies range from 5 billion to 40 billion CFUs per day. It is advised to follow dosage recommendations on clinically tested products and to start with a lower dose to allow the body to adjust.
Teens can obtain probiotics from fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, but these sources offer variable and often lower CFU counts compared to targeted supplements. If a supplement is chosen, it must be stored according to the manufacturer’s directions, as some strains require refrigeration to maintain viability. Probiotics are best taken consistently, often with a meal, to help the organisms survive the acidic environment of the stomach.