In general, you should not expect probiotics to be either a cause of or a cure for nausea. However, there may certainly be some indirect actions from probiotics that could result in this distressing symptom or help relieve it. Probiotics are intended to replace and strengthen the colonies of helpful bacteria that help you digest and use the food you eat. Check with your doctor before starting any new medication or supplement.
Background
"Probiotics" is a general term for the healthy bacteria that colonize your digestive system from birth. If you scan the shelves of your pharmacy, you see a bewildering display of products with the word "probiotics." This is also true in the supermarket, where many food labels use the same terms. If you have digestive problems and wonder if probiotics will help you, there are some things you should consider.
Considerations
If you suffer from nausea when you take probiotics, the problem may be with the form you've chosen. People who are lactose intolerant may be able to consume some dairy products without a problem. But one of the symptoms of lactose intolerance is nausea. If you are lactose intolerant and choose a probiotic yogurt or other milk-based product, it may be too much lactose for your system. Consider instead a tablet or capsule containing the freeze-dried bacteria.
Prevention/Solution
If you are taking a pill or capsule and still have nausea, check the label for extra ingredients that you may be reacting to. Some probiotics are combined with digestive enzymes, vitamins and other substances. Try a product that contains only Lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacteria. This combination should provide all the probiotics you need if you follow the label directions, National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Start with a small dose and increase to the amount directed. Take with meals to get the best results with the fewest side effects.
Benefits
Probiotics are intended to relieve digestive problems that are caused by and imbalance or an insufficient amount of the helpful bacteria. They are active in the intestines. By aiding your overall digestion, they might help to relieve nausea. This, however, is not an expected result of using probiotics. Probiotics are especially helpful when you must take antibiotics and develop diarrhea as a result. MayoClinic.com also lists prevention of urinary tract infections and vaginal yeast infections as possible benefits of probiotic use.
Warning
Simple probiotics are safe for most people. Compound preparations with digestive enzymes or other ingredients may be helpful for others. These are more expensive and can increase the possibility of allergic reactions or side effects. Some people should not take probiotics of any kind without medical supervision. These include people with very weak immune systems or who are taking immunosuppressive drugs. Nausea has many causes, and if your continues, contact your physician.
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