Antiobiotics Alter the Gut

The gut microbiome is all the microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, that live in the gut. Our microbiome is responsible for food digestion, immune modulation, producing vitamins, balancing hormones and improving brain function. We are often prescribed antibiotics for illnesses, which affect our gut health and therefore can also affect our immunity and digestion.

Antibiotics kill bacteria, including “good bacteria,” which lower immune function. Additionally, antibiotics reduce microbial diversity and cause species of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics to proliferate and cause issues like diarrhea and infections such as C. diff. Some research shows antibiotics can cause permanent change to our flora.

Antibiotics are often overprescribed and overused. If you do need to take an antibiotic, DON’T! If you need antibiotics, after your course of treatment, repopulate your gut with fermented foods and probiotics. Also, if your GI system is affected after a course of antibiotics, avoid processed and sweet foods and focus on easy to digest foods high in fiber. Also, make sure to get adequate sleep and find ways to monitor your stress. Your gut affects your health and your health impacts your gut!