Can adults take probiotics for a long time?

Generally, adults should not take probiotics for a prolonged period. The detailed explanation is as follows:

There is a natural balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. When adults take probiotics long-term or in large quantities, this balance may be disrupted, potentially causing changes in frequency, consistency, or characteristics of bowel movements. Unless an individual suffers from chronic digestive system disorders, such as chronic diarrhea, bloating, malabsorption, or indigestion, long-term or excessive intake of probiotics is usually unnecessary. Prolonged overconsumption may cause certain bacteria to lose activity, potentially leading to secondary contamination or fungal infections, which can trigger symptoms such as fever, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, or loose stools.

In addition, long-term use of probiotics may increase the risk of allergic reactions. Choosing an inappropriate probiotic product might trigger allergic symptoms such as rash or shortness of breath. Moreover, some probiotic products contain high levels of sugar or other additives, and long-term consumption may increase the risk of conditions such as obesity and diabetes.

Although probiotics are beneficial to the body, excessive intake may lead to negative effects. Therefore, probiotics should be taken in appropriate amounts, avoiding excessive consumption.