thefinchleyclinic

In recent years a lot has been said and written about the downside of the over-prescription of antibiotics.

The first extensive use of antibiotics was during the First World War where there is absolutely no doubt that they saved the lives of tens of thousands of soldiers. And from that time on for the next several decades they were deemed to be the wonder cure-all drug.

But in more recent years, doctors have become less generous and more cautious about handing them out. There must now be a very good reason for their use. In most cases, milder bacterial infections are best left to themselves and the body’s natural defence system will take care of the problem.

If a course of bacteria is taken when there is no major infection, the body will build an immunity that will mean should a genuine need for antibiotics be needed in the future, it will have no effect.

Another problem with antibiotics is that they destroy not just the bad bacteria they are intended for, but also just as many good gut bacteria. This is the reason many people on a course of bacteria suffer diarrhoea as the balance of gut bacteria is heavily disrupted.

How useful a course of probiotics is, is open to debate. But certainly, there are many that find these products beneficial.

Optibac probiotics are manufacturers of several different probiotics suitable for a variety of occasions. Although probiotics do not have to be taken quite as carefully and courses completed as with antibiotics, the instructions should still be followed.

There are various other naturally formed probiotics such as live culture yoghurts and if you can find it, live kefir. Both are packed with a plentiful supply of good gut bacteria.

And if you are on a course of antibiotics then there is absolutely no reason not to take probiotics at the same time. These are good bacteria that are not what the antibiotic is intended to destroy.

At the same time, foods high in fibre may also help prevent trouble with digestion.