Is it helpful to take probiotics for gastroesophageal reflux?
Oct 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Taking probiotics is generally ineffective for gastroesophageal reflux. Probiotics can help regulate intestinal flora, whereas gastroesophageal reflux typically involves the backflow of substances such as bile, gastric acid, and pepsin into the esophagus, leading to mucosal damage in the esophageal area. In such cases, medications that protect the gastric mucosa and suppress acid production should be taken under a physician's guidance.
Generally, taking probiotics is not effective for gastroesophageal reflux.
Probiotics can help regulate intestinal flora. When imbalances in the gut bacteria lead to symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain, probiotic medications may be used under a doctor's guidance. However, gastroesophageal reflux usually refers to the backflow of substances such as bile, gastric acid, and pepsin into the esophagus, causing damage to the esophageal mucosa. In such cases, treatment typically requires medications that protect the gastric mucosa and suppress acid production, such as omeprazole capsules, rabeprazole capsules, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets, all taken under medical supervision. Probiotics generally do not have a therapeutic effect on gastroesophageal reflux. Therefore, patients should follow their doctor’s instructions when taking medication and avoid self-medicating.
After developing symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, patients commonly experience discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, acid regurgitation, heartburn, and chest pain behind the breastbone. It is recommended to eat light, easily digestible foods during illness and to avoid foods high in cholesterol or those that are excessively hot or cold.
