Fibromyalgia (FM) management requires a
multi-dimensional approach, of which nutrition plays a BIG role. Last month, we
discussed the importance of keeping an accurate food journal and grading the
reaction that certain foods, vitamins, herbs, etc. have on you. This month,
let's discuss the nutritional use of probiotics.
Probiotics can be defined as the
“good guy,” or friendly bacteria, that we need and have in our gastrointestinal
(GI) tract. Certain “strains” or types of probiotics have been linked to many
health benefits ranging from calming IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) to
stimulating the immune system. As a
result, probiotics can help “fight off” MANY conditions, including bacterial
and/or viral infections and related conditions. Probiotics may also benefit
those suffering from autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, MS,
lupus, and more. Common questions surrounding the use of probiotics include:
1)
Are these FDA regulated? ANSWER: In 2001, the
FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization - NOT the FDA or Food and Drug
Administration) defined probiotics as “live microorganisms which, when
administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” At this
time, the FDA has NOT approved any specific health benefit related to probiotics.
This may be because the amounts of probiotic that studies have reported to be
beneficial vary from strain to strain and condition to condition. In 2007, the
FDA placed regulations requiring all dietary supplements to be a) produced in a
quality manner, b) to be free of contaminants / impurities, and c) accurately
labeled. Probiotic researchers are hoping this will improve the quality of the
probiotic supplements and research quality in the United States
2)
Which probiotic strain
does what?
ANSWER: According to probiotic
microbiology consultant Dr. Mary Ellen Sanders, strains that help modulate and
support the immune system include: Bifidobacterium
lactis HN019 – this helps older people in particular (sold as an active
ingredient for dairy and supplement products); Lactobacillus reuten ATCC55730 (available in BioGaia Gut Health
products); Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001
(in DanActive products); and d) Bifidobacterium
lactis Bb-12 (available in Yo-Plus yogurt, LiveActive cheese) - best used uncooked. To help combat diarrhea
associated with antibiotic use, consider: S.
cerevisiae (S. boulardii) (found in Florastore powder and Lalfor capsules);
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)
(found in Danimals drinkable yogurt and Culturelle capsules); Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001 (in
DanActive products); Lactobacillus
acidophilus CL1285 and Lactobacillus
casei Lbc80r (found as BioK + CL1285 fermented milk, BioK + CL1285 soy
milk, and capsules).
3)
What information should
be looked at on the label of probiotic foods? ANSWER: a) Look for the full probiotic
name, which includes the genus, species followed by the strain, as many only
list the genus/species (such as “Bifidobacterium
lactis” found in Kraft’s LiveActive Cheddar Cheese Sticks). b) Find out how
much probiotic is contained in each serving, and what research supports the
health benefit and the amount they used (search the website of each individual
product to find these answers).
4)
Are probiotic
supplements worthwhile? ANSWER: When consumed in food or pill form, YES! Dr. Sanders
says food sources are more nutritious, but pills are more convenient and may
have greater amounts of probiotic. Most important, You MUST receive adequate amounts of Probiotics for your needs!
5)
Are Probiotics safe? ANSWER: Usually, but
those acutely ill or those with a compromised immune system should be cautious,
as this area is currently being researched with unknown answers. A Tufts University
If you, a friend or family member
requires care for Fibromyalgia, we sincerely appreciate the trust and
confidence shown by choosing our services!
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