Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast widely used for treating and preventing gastrointestinal conditions, particularly diarrhea. Its mechanisms of action include modulating the gut microbiota,...
Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast widely used for treating and preventing gastrointestinal conditions, particularly diarrhea. Its mechanisms of action include modulating the gut microbiota, inhibiting pathogen adhesion, and stimulating the immune system. While generally considered safe, potential side effects include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and, rarely, systemic infection in vulnerable populations. Dosages typically range from 250-500mg daily. Further research is ongoing to explore its broader applications and optimize its use.
Key Information
Inside Body Harmful Score
Common Dosage
250-500mg daily
Source Type
natural
Production Process
Saccharomyces boulardii is typically produced through fermentation processes using specific strains of the yeast. The yeast is cultured in a controlled environment, harvested, and then dried or lyophilized (freeze-dried) to create a shelf-stable probiotic supplement.
Use Type
Inside BodyPotential Benefits
Diarrhea prevention is achieved through maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, promoting proper digestion, and strengthening the intestinal barrier. This process reduces inflammation, promotes beneficial bacteria growth, and prevents dehydration.
Maintaining a balanced gut flora is crucial for overall health, impacting digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and potentially mental well-being. An imbalance (dysbiosis) can lead to digestive problems, weakened immunity, and increased susceptibility to infections.
This benefit treats and prevents various types of diarrhea by modifying gut microbiota, inhibiting pathogen adhesion, and stimulating the immune response. It is effective for antibiotic-associated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, and acute diarrhea in children and adults.
This benefit helps manage Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving gut barrier function. Effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and specific condition.
This benefit is about preventing Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) by restoring gut microbiota, especially when antibiotics are used. It prevents C. difficile overgrowth, leading to reduced risk of infection.
This benefit is intended to reduce symptoms of IBS like abdominal pain and bloating. Its effects may be modest, but can improve quality of life for some individuals with IBS.
Possible Side Effects
Gas is the presence of excess air in the digestive system, causing bloating, burping, and flatulence. It is often caused by diet or swallowing air, but can also be related to underlying gastrointestinal conditions.
Allergic reactions are hypersensitivity responses to allergens, ranging from mild skin irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Symptoms vary widely and are caused by an immune response.
Gastrointestinal discomfort includes nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, typically mild and transient. Symptoms are often dose-dependent and vary in severity.
Saccharomyces fungemia is a rare and serious systemic fungal infection caused by Saccharomyces, primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals, those with central venous catheters, or critically ill patients. It can lead to severe complications, including sepsis and organ dysfunction.
Scientific Evidence
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15285770/; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20620603/; https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28445798/
User Reviews
Share your experience with this ingredient
Log in to write a reviewNo reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience!