Probiotics don't cause ulcers, but the use of probiotics may help to heal the open wounds in your digestive system. According the University of Maryland Medical Center, about 20 million Americans will develop an ulcer during their lifetimes. The use of probiotics may help kill the harmful bacteria causing the ulcer and promote a healthy balance in the digestive system between beneficial and harmful bacteria. Probiotics are not intended to replace traditional medication.
What Are Ulcers?
At one time, ulcers were thought to simply be the result of too much stress or eating a lot of spicy foods. The medical field now understands that ulcers are not the result of what you eat, but rather an infection or the result of a poor lifestyle choice. Most ulcers are caused by the H. pylori bacteria, which causes the lining of your stomach, esophagus or opening of the small intestine to weaken and develop a wound, according to MayoClinic.com. Other reasons why ulcers may develop are from the overuse of alcohol, daily use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and the use of tobacco.
Probiotic Treatment
Probiotics may help to suppress the growth of the H. pylori bacteria, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Probiotics cause the production of certain chemicals during digestion, such as hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid, which create an unfavorable environment for harmful bacteria. The recommended dose to help treat peptic ulcers is 5 to 10 billion cells daily of probiotics, taken in multiple doses. If you've been diagnosed with bacterial ulcers, taking probiotics may help to alleviate some side effects of taking antibiotics.
Other Treatments
If your ulcers are the result of lifestyle choices, your doctor will inform you if the use of probiotics will be helpful for treatment. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, such as avoiding foods that are highly acidic or contain a lot of spices. While these foods do not cause the development of ulcers, they may aggravate the wounds, causing abdominal pain and discomfort. Stop smoking, chewing tobacco, over-eating, drinking alcohol and stop using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers.
Considerations
Probiotics should only be used under a doctor's supervision, and they may cause allergic reactions in some people. If you develop a rash, shortness of breath, stomach pain or facial swelling, stop using the supplement and call 911. If you're lactose intolerant, have artificial heart valves or have a weakened immune system, talk with your doctor before using probiotics.
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