Are probiotics enteric-coated? This is a question that will be of particular interest to people who want to use probiotics to restore their imbalanced gut flora. But why are enteric-coated medications or probiotics important at all? What are the advantages? The following text explains and answers these questions.

What is gastric acid resistance?

When we talk about an enteric-coated medication, we mean capsules or tablets that do not dissolve in the stomach and release their active ingredient there, but only in the small intestine. The tablets are usually coated with a special layer that ensures the active ingredients of the medication are not dissolved in the stomach.

When taking these tablets, you must observe a few things: For example, you must not let them dissolve in your mouth, crush them, or chew them, as this can damage the protective coating. Furthermore, you should take the tablets at least 30 minutes before a meal. This prevents the active ingredients from being released much later than intended.

Interesting facts about gastric acid resistance:

• The tablets or capsules are coated with a special coating.
• This prevents the medication from dissolving in the stomach.
• Tablets or capsules must not be chewed or crushed.
• Sufficient time between taking the medication and eating a meal is essential.

Why are there enteric-coated dosage forms?

There are various reasons for the use of enteric-coated medications. As mentioned earlier, this ensures that the active ingredients are released only in the small intestine and not in the stomach. Some active ingredients become ineffective in the acidic environment of the stomach or may even be activated prematurely.

If the stomach lining is irritated by medications activated too early, several side effects such as nausea can occur. Side effects affecting the esophagus can also occur if irritation takes place.

Are there enteric-coated probiotics?

Yes, there are enteric-coated probiotics, which are usually available in tablet or capsule form. They also have a protective coating that ensures the beneficial gut bacteria are only released in the intestines.

These products are available from various manufacturers. It is important that the number of active bacterial cultures is high, so that as many beneficial bacteria as possible can colonize the gut and exert their effects.

The benefits of enteric-coated probiotics

When probiotics are enteric-coated, they have the aforementioned advantage of being released only in the intestines, where they can colonize in large numbers. Probiotics that are activated by acid are particularly suitable for this purpose, as they do not dissolve in the mouth or esophagus. This generally prevents side effects or unpleasant symptoms such as nausea.

However, not all probiotics should be enteric-coated. Some bacterial strains are effective even in the acidic environment of the stomach. Furthermore, this method can sometimes override the stomach's protective mechanisms, which can also lead to side effects.

Conclusion

Should probiotics be enteric-coated? In principle, there's nothing wrong with that. However, you should make sure that they are probiotics that can bypass the stomach's natural protective barrier without causing any problems.

The basic idea behind probiotics being enteric-coated is sound. They can only colonize, multiply, and exert their effects in the gut. And it's undisputed that an excess of beneficial bacteria can promote a balanced gut flora.