Prebiotics and Probiotics

[Gilly100]

I have asthma, acute broncho-pulmonary aspergillosis and bronchiectasis. I also have gastric-reflux problems and spend a lot of time belching. I was wondering if probiotics and prebiotics might help? Any advice gratefully appreciated.

[Sparkywoo]

I have asthma and bronchiectasis. I take them regularly as I feel I have nothing to lose. Where they really work for me is that I don’t get thrush any more when taking antibiotics 😀

[ChrissieMons]

Ask your GP or pharmacist about omeprazole. It takes a while to settle your gastric issues, but I found it helps.

[Poobah]

If you do buy pre/probiotics then get a brand that has the most strains of biotics.

They aren't all the same and the number of biotic strains should be noted on the packaging.

[Lynkeogh]

GERD can go hand in hand with asthma you need to see your doctor and get help. As can lead to Barrett’s syndrome

[Matman]

Natural Prebiotics seem much more effective than commercially sold Probiotics, despite advertised claims by manufactures of certain popular probiotic brands sold in stores / supermarkets.

A few years back, so called ‘Clinical Proven’ Label Statement Claims by a some leading house-hold name brands of probiotics I was contemplating, were tested by experts appointed by a National Newspaper and found ‘questionable’ (to say the least).

Independent tests often conclude probiotics fail totally to reach the right part of the gut, However you could try both Pre and Pro Biotics as (other than perhaps some additional calories, from including the Probiotic) I’ve not heard that they’re dangerous as such.

Might be a good idea to keep a food & drink log / diary, then see your doc about your reflux issue, as small changes (such as modifying food-choices, maybe additional fibre, plus, perhaps, small alterations to timing of meals, could help improve / resolve the reflux.

Unless a pressing medical need compels medications for gastric disorder, it’s often better to avoid yet more drugs. For example only, some folk use Proton Pump Inhibitors, but that’s something I’d only consider after making massive efforts to control symptoms by natural means, as PPI treatment can often lead to other undesirable issues.

[Gilly100]

Thanks to all for taking the time to reply - really helpful!

[Londonliving]

It’s worth a try especially if you have been on antibiotics but it would take several weeks for them to work and I suspect the omeprazole may be more effective. There are lots brands out there but multistrains tend to be more effective (though are more expensive). Some of the main ones and the ones with the highest level of bacteria:

Bimuno

VSL #3

Symprove (if you contact them the might do a 4 week trial for free but it is quite expensive after).

Take care.