Antibiotics

We all need antibiotics from time to time but it’s important to know how we manage the negative impacts that antibiotics while we are on them and after we’ve finished. Recently I have had to have antibiotics for an infection and it had gotten to the stage that it was the only option for me.

Did you know that after 1 course of antibiotics is can take up to 6 months to restore harmony in your digestive system?

What can antibiotics do to our gut?

With antibiotics the problem is that they are so strong to try and kill of the bad bacteria that is causing an infection in your body but it is also kills off our good bacteria. This can effect yeasts too and can allow them to grown out of control and take over what would have been reduced by helpful bacteria such as lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. If left untreated you can begin to experience IBS like symptoms such as, bloating, gas, stomach cramps and loose bowels.

Other important things to note is that 60% of the immune system is based in the gastro-intestinal tract and a good balanced between various types of gut bacteria is essential for maintaining optimum health.

One of the pioneers of natural medicine, Hippocrates started that “all disease starts in the gut”, so this makes it all more important to look after your gut while taking antibiotics along with months afterwards.

How can we prevent any side effects?

We can prevent any side effects that may occur from antibiotics by consuming whole foods, low carbohydrates and avoiding sugar as much as possible, this will help to reduce some yeast growth. It is important to eat fermented foods as well as taking a high quality probiotic supplement.

Best foods for improving gut bacteria

- Kombucha

- Sauerkraut

- Kimchi

- Kefir

- Good quality probiotics

Supplements while taking antibiotics

A high quality probiotic supplement is essential while being on antibiotics are for the months after. The supplement you choose is so important as you are wanting a broad spectrum, multi strained probiotic. Please send me a message to discuss which one is right for you!! But just as important as probiotics, prebiotics which is the “food” for the probiotics must also be included daily. Prebiotics include, sweet potato, onions, banana, garlic, Manuka honey, or slippery elm.

I hope this helps you better improve your health while on antibiotics and post antibiotics. If you need any more specific personalised advice, please contact me for an appointment.