Confused By This-- Probiotics

[tednlou2]

I was prescribed Levaquin again, as a precaution to prevent pneumonia.  I've had some illness and fever spiked to 103.  Chest X-ray was clear, but was given the the antibiotic just in case.  I'm sure I got what millions get-- some kind of respiratory infection.  But, with my 2 cases of pneumonia, they wanted to be cautious. 

Last time I was on Levaquin, I got the gut bombs.  It felt like little explosives were literally being detonated in my gut.  And, I had the loose and watery stools.  I eat tons of yogurt, but thought I would supplement with probiotic supplements.  I found this article from Consumer Reports.  I found the study of rats interesting-- that stress made their intestines more permeable to gut bacteria getting into the lymph system.  That made me also wonder whether stress could do the same for HIV, but that's other story. 

Anyway, at the bottom, it says people with low immunity should avoid probiotics.  What's that about?  Never heard that.  In fact, only heard the opposite.  And, it said better to not take with antibiotics.  I get that it may make them less potent, but it would seem that's when many would actually need them.  So, this confused me.  By the way, anyone recommend a certain brand that is trusted to have what it claims to have? 

http://www.consumerreports.org/health/free-highlights/manage-your-health/probiotics.htm

[buginme2]

This is by far the best probiotic I've found

http://www.pharmaca.com/Pharmaca-Vitamins-Supplements-and-Herbs/Pharmaca-Probiotic-Ultimate-Blend-24-Billion-Live-Cells-60-Vegetarian-Capsules/520943/6077/Product

If they don't have a store near you, you can buy online.

I use them on and off regularly.  I pretty much avoid all supplements and vitamins however probiotics are the one thing I do take.  They do work...for me.

P.s. You should store this brand in the refrigerator

[GoForIt]

I've been taking 1 a day with lunch. Nature's Own brand.  Been on it for about 4 months daily.  Seems to help my digestive system a bit...no negative effects for me personally.  Would be interested in hearing what others think.

[watl]

There really are not that many studies out there looking at this and those that do exist either offer conflicting conclusions or are inconclusive. I think this area though (gut mucosal health) and another (inflamation) are the next real areas of emphasis and offer the best hopes for improved quality of life and disease prevention alongside increasing life expectancies. I myself take Bowtrol.