Probiotics, Prebiotics and Synbiotics

Julie Weber Is This A Poison

Toxicity:  Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics are largely harmless.

Expected symptoms:  They can cause stomach upset, gas and bloating.

What to do:  Wipe out the child’s mouth with a soft, wet cloth and then give them some water to drink.

Beneficial bacteria naturally live in everyone’s gut.  Probiotics are similar living bacteria and yeasts that people take to restore the healthy balance of bacteria in their gut and keep it that way.   Most people get probiotics through fermented foods like yogurt or fresh sauerkraut, but they can also be taken as supplements in capsules, pearls, tablets, chewables, and gummies. 

Prebiotics are basically a food source for the gut bacteria.  They are in regular food and also can be taken as supplements.  Synbiotics are products that contain both the helpful bacteria and their food.

The down side? Some people get minor stomach upset, or temporary gas and bloating.

If you find your child eating any of these supplements,  do not panic.  Take the bottle away from them, wipe out the mouth with a soft, wet cloth and give them some water to drink.  If you have questions or would like some help with this,  call the Missouri Poison Center at 1-800-222-1222.  The poison center is open all day, every day for problems and questions  just like this.
