Can probiotics cause acid reflux? It’s interesting that probiotics is often used to lessen acid reflux. However, some people report a worsening of acid reflux when consuming probiotics. Why do this happen? Here are a three common reasons.
1. Cleansing
Probiotic bacteria help restore and improve the gut environment. However, during this process many symptoms can occur like gas, constipation, headaches, and also acid reflux. Why does this happen?
The gut contain harmful microorganisms, toxins, heavy metals, and waster products that needs to be removed. But if the body cannot eliminate toxins quickly enough, the individual might get heartburn. Also, when harmful microorganisms die they often release toxins triggering symptoms.[1]Probiotic bacteria as detoxification tools: assessing heavy metal binding (cdnsciencepub.com)[2]Biodegradation by Lactic Acid Bacteria [3]Effect of Probiotics on Bisphenol (tandfonline.com)[4]Probiotics and Helicobacter pylori
Therefore, a temporary worsening of symptoms does not indicate failure, it’s quite the contrary. The more the gut needs a cleanse, the more symptoms might occur.[5]Reflux and Probiotics: A Review[6]Probiotics for gut diseases
Main point: It’s common to temporarily feel worse before getting better. This is a normal and healthy process called “a healing crisis.” This applies also to “yeast” and “protein build-up” mentioned below.
2. Yeast
Yeast like candida is a common problem. Some people have problems with yeast without too many symptoms—until they start consuming probiotics. When they do, the yeast starts dying violently, releasing powerful toxins. It can take time before such symptoms subside. This depends on the severity of the infection and on how sensitive the individual is.[7]Probiotics as Antifungals in Mucosal Candidiasis | Oxford Academic (oup.com)
Probiotic supplement designed for candida
Controlling yeast takes time, quick fixes seldom work. Some specialists recommend starting off without the use of probiotics to avoid side effects. For example, high on the list is to eliminate sugar, alcohol, and coffee.
Explore more strategies for yeast
3. Protein build-up
Probiotics can cause acid reflux when the gut is not able to break down all the protein consumed. This results in a protein build-up in the stomach. Probiotics (and enzymes) can help digestion to return to normal and remove undigested proteins. During this process acid reflux is a possible side effect.
Some recommend cutting down on animal protein and focus more on consuming fresh vegetables and perhaps seafood.
FAQ
Lower the probiotic dose or stop taking it. Try dissolving a probiotic capsule in a glass of water or juice. Drink a little now and then during the day until the glass is empty in the evening. The probiotic dose remains the same, but delivery is slower, a kind of super-slow release.
If indeed probiotics cause acid reflux, it usually disappears when the stomach environment improves or when you stop taking probiotics.
Some sufferers report that consuming yogurt or kefir works well as they are both mild on the gut. Other suggestions include:
1. Stop smoking.
2. Don’t eat too late at night.
3. Reduce sugar and carb intake.
4. Learn to eat slowly, chewing food thoroughly.
5. Drink fresh vegetable juice; try Ginger Shots!
6. Take a tablespoon apple cider vinegar mornings and evenings.
Please read this post: Other reasons for adverse reactions to probiotics
Common triggers: Eating too much or too fast; eating late at night; tight fitting clothes; alcohol; hot spices; coffee and tea; table salt; obesity. Certain medical conditions can cause acid reflux.