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Pregnancy is a special and life-altering period in a woman’s life, in which health and wellness become the focus for mother and child. In the realm of numerous wellness trends, probiotics have been a subject of curiosity because of their contribution to maintaining gut health.
Probiotics are so-called “good” bacteria that can confer various benefits throughout pregnancy, from better digestion to improved immunity. But are probiotics safe for pregnant women? And can they contribute positively to pregnancy outcomes?
In this article, we examine the scientific evidence, potential benefits, and expert advice on using probiotics safely during pregnancy for optimal maternal and fetal well-being.
There are a lot of health benefits of taking probiotics during pregnancy and in this article below, we will discuss in detail the role of probiotics during pregnancy and can you take probiotics while pregnant.
Understanding Probiotics: What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that have beneficial health effects when introduced into the body in appropriate amounts. They occur naturally in our bodies, particularly within the digestive system, and are crucial in helping to achieve a healthy gut microbiome.
A healthy gut microbiome aids in improved digestion, enhances immune function, facilitates the absorption of nutrients, and can even affect mood and mental wellness. Probiotics naturally occur in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso, and tempeh.
Probiotics are also widely sold as dietary supplements. Taking probiotics regularly can restore and support the equilibrium of the gut bacteria, particularly in the face of stress, illness, antibiotic consumption, or a change in diet.
Certain probiotic supplements are better than others. Hence it is important to pick a probiotic supplement that’s backed by research and clinical trials, that is Food and Drug Administration-approved for safety, and contains human bacterial strains and clean components.
Benefits of Probiotics During Pregnancy
1. Reducing the Risk of Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) occurs in a high percentage of pregnant women and can cause complications to both the child and the mother. Probiotic supplementation has been found in studies to enhance glycemic control, possibly reducing the prevalence of GDM. For example, a systematic review showed that probiotics could have beneficial effects on blood glucose in pregnant women.
2. Preventing Preterm Delivery
Preterm birth is one of the main causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Evidence suggests that probiotics can lower preterm labour risk through immune modulation and inflammation reduction. An experiment emphasised that probiotics might intervene in the inflammatory cascade of preterm birth.
3. Reducing Infant Eczema
Infant eczema or atopic dermatitis is a prevalent skin condition. Probiotic intake by mothers during pregnancy and lactation has also been linked to reduced risks of infant eczema. A review identified that the use of probiotics by pregnant or lactating mothers lowered the risk of eczema in their offspring.
4. Enhancing Maternal Mental Health
Pregnancy is often associated with mood swings and heightened vulnerability to depression and anxiety. New research indicates that probiotics can be involved in enhancing maternal mental well-being. A randomised controlled trial demonstrated that probiotic supplementation could minimise the symptoms of depression and anxiety in pregnant women.
Safety of Probiotics During Pregnancy
Probiotics are normally safe to use during pregnancy and are tolerable by the majority of pregnant women.
Various studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses, have come up with results concluding that probiotic supplementation does not pose a risk of increased adverse pregnancy outcomes like miscarriage, preterm birth, or birth defects.
Indeed, these good bacteria could be beneficial in maintaining maternal health through digestion support, immune system enhancement, and even prevention of some pregnancy-related complications. But remember, not all probiotics are created equal, and their benefits differ.
Also, each pregnancy is different, and one’s personal health issues need to be considered. Thus, although probiotics hold a lot of promise, it’s important to talk with a healthcare professional or obstetrician first before incorporating any new supplement into your prenatal regimen.
A healthcare provider can advise you on the right strains, dosages, and possible interactions with other medications or prenatal vitamins to provide safety to mother and baby.
Recommended Probiotic Strains for Pregnancy
Not all probiotics are created equal. Specific strains have been studied for their benefits during pregnancy:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: Linked to reduced risk of eczema in infants.
- Bifidobacterium lactis BB12: Associated with improved gut health and immune function.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus: Supports vaginal health, reducing the risk of infections.
These strains are often found in prenatal probiotic supplements designed to support maternal and fetal health.
Incorporating Probiotics into Your Diet
Beyond supplements, probiotics can be obtained from various foods:
- Yoghurt: Opt for varieties with live and active cultures.
- Kefir: A fermented milk drink rich in diverse probiotic strains.
- Sauerkraut and Kimchi: Fermented vegetables that support gut health.
- Miso and Tempeh: Fermented soy products are beneficial for digestion.
Including these foods in your diet can naturally boost your probiotic intake.
Conclusion
Probiotics can be a good complement to a healthy pregnancy regimen, with advantages including a lower risk of gestational diabetes, fewer preterm delivery risks, healthier maternal mental state, and less infant eczema.
Probiotics promote gut health and immune system support, both crucial during pregnancy. While safe, it’s always best to discuss with your provider first before adding new supplements.
For a more natural solution, try incorporating probiotic foods such as yoghurt, kefir, or fermented veggies into your daily life. Properly directed, probiotics can benefit both the mother’s health and your baby’s healthier beginnings.
Can You Take Probiotics While Pregnant FAQs:
Yes, probiotics are generally considered safe during pregnancy. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
Studies suggest that probiotics may improve glycemic control, potentially reducing the risk of gestational diabetes.
Research indicates that probiotics can modulate the immune response, potentially decreasing the risk of preterm labour.
Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium lactis BB12, and Lactobacillus acidophilus have been studied for their benefits during pregnancy.
Consuming fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, and tempeh can boost your probiotic intake.
