Pregnancy is a wonderful experience. Unfortunately, gastrointestinal problems are a common occurrence during this time. Could probiotics be the solution to this problem during pregnancy?

In the following text I will explain what probiotics are, why you should definitely talk to your gynecologist and why you should absolutely not undergo intestinal cleansing during pregnancy.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms. They belong to the family of "good bacteria." Where does this name come from? Well, good bacteria are beneficial to health. They can contribute to a healthy gut flora. This, in turn, helps the immune system and can fight inflammation and other diseases.

You might be familiar with a similar process from the oral flora. There, too, beneficial bacteria create a healthy environment, thereby combating potential pathogens. Probiotics during pregnancy can also contribute to a healthy vaginal environment.

• Probiotics are live microorganisms.
• They are among the "good bacteria".
• Probiotics can help build a healthy oral and intestinal flora.
• Probiotics are found in foods such as yogurt or kefir.

Foods containing probiotics

Probiotics can be found in certain foods as well as in specially formulated dietary supplements. Natural foods containing probiotics include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and yogurt drinks. In these cases, the probiotics are either naturally present, produced during processing, or added – for example, during the production of a yogurt drink.

Are probiotics beneficial during pregnancy?

Science has not yet reached a definitive answer to this question. Studies show results in several directions. Probiotics are primarily taken during pregnancy to prevent gestational diabetes. On the other hand, their effect on the development of preeclampsia is not yet fully understood.

In any case, it is advisable to adhere to the scheduled check-ups during pregnancy and to consult with your gynecologist before taking any natural probiotics or medications. Your doctor will then decide whether the targeted use of probiotics during pregnancy is indicated and recommended.

Which probiotics should you take during pregnancy?

As mentioned above, there are various probiotics that contain beneficial bacteria. Yogurt, kefir, and similar products, in particular, contain a high proportion of probiotics. Sauerkraut, kimchi, and products made from fermented soybeans also contain many probiotics.

Of course, there are also dietary supplements containing these probiotics. One such product is Lacto Lux Forte. Each capsule contains 40 billion active bacterial strains, carefully balanced to work together. Its benefits include healthy hair and nails, a healthy gastrointestinal tract, improved metabolism, and a robust immune system.

Intestinal cleansing during pregnancy

A healthy gut is of central importance to overall health. It's often said that a healthy gut is the key to a functioning immune system. And a functioning immune system is better able to effectively ward off harmful pathogens or inflammation, thus contributing to general well-being.

To restore a compromised gut, a gut restoration program has often proven effective. This usually consists of several stages: intestinal cleansing, building up a healthy gut flora, and maintaining a healthy gut flora through dietary changes and other means.

No bowel cleansing during pregnancy

But is a gut cleanse advisable during pregnancy? Many doctors advise against a traditional gut cleanse during pregnancy. It's better to do it before a planned pregnancy. The sometimes significant loss of fluids and nutrients can negatively affect the baby – even during breastfeeding.

Outside of pregnancy and after breastfeeding, there is of course nothing wrong with a gut cleanse. However, even in this case, you should definitely consult your doctor before embarking on such a cleanse.

Conclusion

The beneficial and health-promoting effects of probiotics are undisputed. They are also easily obtained through foods like yogurt or kefir. Probiotics are also available in the form of dietary supplements such as Lacto Lux Forte. But is it advisable to take probiotics during pregnancy?

Well, there's no clear answer to that question. The results of the various studies are too diverse. Some studies even advise caution regarding the additional intake of probiotics and the development of preeclampsia.

Before taking dietary supplements or increasing their intake of foods rich in probiotics, they should consult their doctor.