Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus bulgaricus
For the health condition: Antibiotics (side effects of)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a probiotic bacterium commonly used in the production of yogurt and other fermented dairy products. Its use to support or treat side effects of antibiotics, particularly antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), is supported by scientific evidence, though most studies often investigate mixed probiotic preparations that may include L. bulgaricus alongside other strains such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium species. Antibiotics can disrupt the normal balance of gut microbiota, leading to gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea, bloating, and discomfort. Probiotic supplementation aims to restore this balance and reduce adverse effects.

Several clinical trials and meta-analyses have demonstrated that certain probiotics, including some preparations containing L. bulgaricus, can reduce the risk and severity of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, especially in children and adults. The mechanism involves competitive inhibition of pathogenic bacteria, enhancement of gut barrier function, and modulation of the immune response. However, evidence specifically isolating the effects of L. bulgaricus (as opposed to multi-strain probiotics) is limited; most benefits are observed in products containing multiple probiotic species. Guidelines from organizations such as the World Gastroenterology Organisation support the use of probiotics for AAD, though they often do not specify single strains.

In summary, while there is scientific support for the use of probiotics in mitigating antibiotic side effects, and L. bulgaricus is commonly included in effective formulations, robust evidence for its efficacy as a standalone intervention is moderate, meriting a rating of 3 out of 5.

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