Reason #4: You’re concerned about dependency and probiotic bacteria safety.So, if you feel that you’re getting enough gut microbes from other sources, you can save some money by taking a break from probiotics. One way to do that is to develop and produce proprietary strains.Īlternative health therapies like probiotic intake can add up to the costs of your medical treatment. However, since these supplement companies can’t patent these common foods or regularly “harvest” their microbes from these food products, they need to come up with other ways to make probiotics. In this regard, you can actually get similar gut microbes from fermented foods like kimchi and sauerkraut as those found in probiotic supplements. You know, probiotics supplements could be expensive for most people. Reason #3: It’s a good way to save money.

Also, the reason why you feel that it’s alright is that you’ve been benefiting from your regular probiotic intake. Remember, though, that there’s no way of telling if your gut is absolutely OK. If your gut is OK, then there’s no need to continue taking probiotics because you might see them as an added cost that doesn’t benefit you at all. Some probiotic users have actually reported experiencing a wide range of side effects, including stomach pain, itches and rashes, and eye problems such as uveitis.īloating and gas are also reported among their most common side effects, but these are usually temporary and simply go away after a few days of continued probiotic intake. Probiotic supplements can cause side effects. Why Should You Take a Break From Probiotics? Let’s discuss some of the reasons why your doctor might recommend a break from probiotic intake below. Still, it’s important to talk to your doctor about returning to probiotic use, proper dosage, the best strains to take, and the intake duration to be safe. So, regular probiotic intake may be advisable instead of taking a break from them.Īfter all, many users have reported experiencing discomfort for the first few weeks, but the symptoms improved after a few more weeks of regular, continued probiotic intake. If your symptoms improve, then it might be a good idea to stay away from probiotics.įor most people, the benefits of probiotics far outweigh their risks. This will give you an idea about the possible involvement of probiotics in the symptoms or side effects you’re experiencing. If you experience any of the side effects I mentioned above, it might be a good idea to stop taking probiotics for one week or two. How Long Should You Take A Break From Probiotics? If you need to take time off probiotics, you might be curious when you can take them again. It’s also a good idea to check with your doctor if you experience any of these side effects or issues after taking probiotics.

Immediately stop taking probiotics if you experience side effects, especially serious symptoms linked to allergies, eye issues, or heart problems.

Don’t stop taking probiotics if you don’t experience any side effects.While most people only have good experiences with probiotics, it’s also true that others had it bad.īecause the effects vary among users, here’s the best way I can answer your question: Surely, these many studies about the positive benefits of regular probiotic use can’t be wrong, no? Conclusion Should You Take A Break From Probiotics?įor most people, my answer would be “ No, don’t take a break from probiotics.” Although studies and data about probiotic safety and effectiveness are limited, there are still more studies that show probiotics to be safe and useful than reports or research about their side effects.įor example, a 2019 study published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology pointed out that 52 studies showed the positive effects of probiotics on several medical conditions.

Should you take a break from probiotics