Can Probiotics Make You Tired?

Can Probiotics Make You Tired?

The number of bacteria residing in your gut is often in the millions, with a complex mixture of the good, the bad, and the ugly which often results in various symptoms you can experience throughout the day, from bloating to gas.

With probiotics containing impressive amounts of good bacteria by introducing them into your daily routine you will be able to restore balance in the gut microbiome, improve your immunity and even help combating symptoms of those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome. Having said that, if you are taking probiotics with the idea of targeting a feeling of fatigue or tiredness, you may find your results will differ. So, this brings us to draw our attention to answer the question- can probiotics make you tired. 

Remember, if you are wanting to find out more about what probiotics are and how they work in the body, you can check out our blog post over on The Health Insiders.

What are the negative side effects of taking probiotics?

Generally speaking, probiotics are safe for most to use without the worry of any negative side effects. The most common, and mild side effects are bloating, gas, constipation, and increased thirst. These affect almost everyone when they first start introducing probiotics into their routine and normally subside after a week or so. For some, there are a few more serious side effects that occur when taking probiotics, such as.

  1. Increased Digestive System Discomfort

With the introduction of a healthy boost of good bacteria can usually knock your gut’s flora off kilter for a short time. This often results in discomfort regarding cramps, bloating, excessive gas, and diarrhoea. These side effects are short term, but if you find there’s no improvement, or signs of them worsening it’s important to stop taking probiotics and seeking the help from your doctor.

  1. Allergic Reaction

If you have an allergy or intolerance to gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, or lactose, you should proceed with caution when introducing probiotics into your daily routine. Ensure you check the ingredients list before taking any probiotic products and should you have an allergic reaction, stop taking the capsules and consult with a medical professional. With their help you’ll prevent the reaction becoming worse and discuss any potential probiotics that could work for you.

  1. Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

The small and large intestine contain different types of bacteria which function effectively if they remain in the correct place. Unfortunately, what can occur, especially when you start introducing probiotics into your routine is that the bacteria from the large intestine can make its way into the small intestine. This will occur in SIBO, which is like IBS and can cause a lot of discomfort, from bloating, cramps, and gas. The reason probiotics develop this is still unknown, but if you find you begin to suffer with symptoms of SIBO, stop taking your probiotics and ask your doctor for help.

There you have some examples of the negative and most common side effects many experiences. If you have any concerns don’t hesitate in seeking the help from your medical professional.

What are the symptoms of too much probiotics?

With the trillion of bacteria already living in the gut and the colon, the idea of incorporating probiotics into your daily routine ensures there’s balance and a consistent collection of good bacteria in the gut enabling it to remain functioning properly.

Having said that, you can experience some side effects that occur when there is too much good bacteria in the gut. This can cause bloating, painful gas, upset stomach, and abdominal cramps. As I have already mentioned these side effects will wear off over time, but if they persist stop taking the probiotics.

What happens to your body when you start taking probiotics?

There are a few changes you will notice in your body when you start taking probiotics. Here are some of the most common you may experience.

  • You may become less constipated- Especially if the strains of bacteria are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium as they both promote regular bowel movements.
  • You’ll improve your immunity- several strains of probiotics are affective at enhancing the immune system helping you combatting the common cold more effectively.
  • You may experience some bloating- This is a result of the gut getting used to the influx of good bacteria into its flora and needs time to adjust.
  • Your overall mood will improve- The gut is considered the second brain which is why a healthy, happy gut connects to you feeling more content with your overall mental health notably improved.
  • You’ll have more energy- With an increase in good bacteria, your gut becomes healthier which in time leads to an improvement in your sleep, mood and every day energy levels.

There you have some examples of what to expect to your body when taking probiotics. If you are wanting to know about what probiotics can do specifically for women’s health, check out our blog post.

Can you take probiotics long term?

Yes, you can take probiotics long term. Many find that with the benefits the strain of good bacteria being constantly present in the gut ensures their overall health and wellbeing are improved. If you can tolerate probiotics without any negative side effects, many medical professionals suggest making probiotics a constant addition into your everyday routine.

With probiotics being a natural supplement and not medicine finding the best type for you will be an easy task. However, always ensure you have checked with GP before trying any new supplement product.

So, there you have a little more information about probiotics and whether they can make you tired. As long as you have found the best strain for you, you will find probiotics are a simple and effective way of improving your well-being and helping you feel your absolute best! Don’t forget to come and follow Wellgard’s Instagram for new product launches, discounts, and delicious recipe ideas.