1. Health

Discuss in my forum

Try Probiotics After Antibiotics

Probiotics May Help Replenish The Beneficial Bacteria In Your Body

By , About.com Guide

Updated November 11, 2012

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Most of us have had to take antibiotics at one time or another -- to either prevent an infection (like before surgery), or to get rid of one (such as a urinary tract infection). Therefore, you already know that antibiotics kill harmful bacteria.

But did you also know that they kill the beneficial bacteria in your gut, along with the harmful ones?

That's right, some of the little bugs in your digestive system are supposed to be there, and antibiotics can wipe them out along with the bad bugs causing the infection. This can lead to diarrhea, among other symptoms.

The good news is, there's help! Taking dietary supplements known as "probiotics" can help replenish all the good little bugs that your body needs.

©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.