Tag: Microbiome

Between 5% and 35% of people who take antibiotics experience antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) [1.3.1]. This common side effect raises the question: **do antibiotics affect bowel movements?** The answer involves a significant impact on your gut's delicate ecosystem.

Antibiotic use is the single most important risk factor for developing *Clostridioides difficile* infection (CDI). Recent systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest that taking probiotics while on antibiotics may significantly reduce the risk of this serious infection, although medical guidelines remain cautious due to conflicting study results and patient-specific risk factors.

According to a 2021 guideline update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA), fidaxomicin is the preferred treatment for initial and recurrent *Clostridioides difficile* infection (CDI). This shifts the long-standing practice of using vancomycin first-line. The primary reason behind this recommendation is the significant reduction in recurrence rates observed with fidaxomicin compared to vancomycin. So, **why is fidaxomicin preferred over vancomycin?**

According to a 2016 study published in *Neurology*, common antibiotics may be linked to temporary mental function disruption, often mistaken for other conditions. The question, "Does antibiotic affect the brain?", is relevant for patients and healthcare providers, as modern research reveals a complex relationship involving both direct neurotoxic effects and indirect changes via the gut microbiome.

Over 50% of patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) also report having sleep problems [1.7.2]. This highlights the intricate connection between gut health and rest. But does rifaximin help you sleep by targeting the gut? This article explores the medication's indirect role in improving sleep.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), the use of probiotics by U.S. adults quadrupled between 2007 and 2012. While their popularity soars, the key question remains: are there any FDA approved probiotics? The answer involves a critical distinction in how the FDA regulates products based on their intended use, a fact often misunderstood by consumers.

Research has shown that taking certain probiotics alongside antibiotics can reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) by as much as 42%. Given that a significant number of people who take antibiotics experience this uncomfortable side effect, understanding if probiotics prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea is a key concern for many.

With global sales of probiotics surpassing $40 billion in recent years, many are seeking to maximize their gut health benefits, yet the debate continues: **is it better to take probiotics in the morning or at night?**. While conflicting theories exist, the most important factor for success often comes down to individual needs, consistency, and the specific product's design.

Studies show that up to 26% of patients taking certain SSRI antidepressants experience nausea, and 16% report diarrhea [1.8.2]. The question, **can antidepressants affect your gut health?**, reveals a complex, bidirectional relationship between the brain and the digestive system.

A surprising 90% of the body's serotonin is produced in the gut, not the brain [1.3.1]. This fact is central to understanding the question: *Do SSRIs mess with your gut?* For many, the answer is yes, especially when starting treatment.