Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Saccharomyces cerevisiae—specifically the strain Saccharomyces boulardii, a close relative—has scientific validation for use in supporting gut health during and after antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics often disrupt the normal gut microbiota, leading to side effects such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) and, in some cases, Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI). Multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have shown that supplementation with S. boulardii can significantly reduce the incidence of AAD in both adults and children. For example, a 2015 Cochrane review found that probiotics, especially S. boulardii, lowered the risk of AAD compared to placebo. The proposed mechanisms include restoration of the gut flora, inhibition of pathogen adherence, and modulation of immune responses.

While S. cerevisiae in general is not as well-studied as S. boulardii for this purpose, the close relationship and similar properties have led to it being used in some probiotic formulations. The scientific evidence for S. boulardii is robust, but users should ensure their supplement contains this specific strain for optimal results. The use of S. cerevisiae and its derivatives for antibiotic side effects is thus supported by scientific research, particularly for preventing diarrhea, though it does not replace medical treatment for serious conditions like CDI.

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