Can I Take Probiotics With Diarrhea? Benefits and Best Strains

November 8, 2025 •

4 min read

According to one review of clinical trials, probiotics may reduce the duration of diarrhea by approximately 25 hours. While taking probiotics can be beneficial in certain circumstances, knowing which strains to use and when it is appropriate to do so is key. The effectiveness of probiotics depends on the type and cause of your diarrhea.

Quick Summary

This article explores the use of probiotics for diarrhea, detailing how they restore gut flora balance and can shorten the duration of symptoms for specific types, like antibiotic-associated and infectious diarrhea. It covers recommended strains, proper timing, potential side effects, and important considerations, emphasizing that effectiveness is strain-dependent.

Key Points

Probiotics aid gut balance: Probiotics replenish beneficial gut bacteria that can be disrupted by illness, stress, or antibiotics, helping to restore the intestinal microflora.
Specific strains are key: Not all probiotics treat all types of diarrhea; efficacy is strain-specific. Look for strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Saccharomyces boulardii, and Lactobacillus reuteri.
Beneficial for antibiotic-associated diarrhea: Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii, can effectively prevent and treat antibiotic-associated diarrhea by protecting the gut microbiome.
Potential for infectious diarrhea: For infectious diarrhea, including rotavirus, certain probiotics can help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms, particularly in children.
Consider timing: The timing of taking probiotics is important, especially when on antibiotics. Space doses apart by at least two hours.
Generally safe, but with caution: Probiotics are safe for most healthy individuals, but those with compromised immune systems should consult a doctor before use.

Probiotics and the Gut Microbiome

Probiotics are live microorganisms that contribute to a balanced intestinal microflora, providing health benefits. Our gut contains trillions of these microorganisms, known as the gut microbiome, which are vital for digestion, immunity, and protection against infection. Imbalances in this microbiome, caused by factors like illness or medication, can lead to digestive issues such as diarrhea. Probiotics can help restore this balance and may alleviate diarrheal symptoms.

How Probiotics Combat Diarrhea

Probiotics work against diarrhea in several ways:

Competitive Exclusion: They compete with harmful pathogens for space and nutrients in the gut.
Antimicrobial Production: Some strains produce substances that inhibit the growth of bad bacteria.
Immune Modulation: They interact with the gut immune system to help regulate inflammation and improve immune response.
Strengthening the Gut Barrier: Probiotics can enhance the intestinal barrier, helping to reduce fluid loss and prevent harmful substances from entering the bloodstream.

Specific Types of Diarrhea and Probiotic Efficacy

Probiotics are not universally effective for all types of diarrhea; their benefit depends on the specific strain and the underlying cause.

Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea (AAD)

Antibiotics can disturb the gut microbiome, leading to AAD in a significant portion of adults.

Effectiveness: Probiotics have been shown to help prevent AAD, with studies indicating that certain strains can lower the risk when taken during and after antibiotic treatment.
Recommended Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and Saccharomyces boulardii are particularly effective for AAD. Other beneficial strains include Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis.
Timing: To help prevent AAD, probiotics may be started within 48 hours of the first antibiotic dose and continued for at least a week after the antibiotic course ends. Maintaining a gap of at least two hours between taking probiotics and antibiotics is often recommended.

Infectious Diarrhea

Caused by viruses or bacteria, infectious diarrhea can be managed with certain probiotics, particularly in children.

Effectiveness: Specific probiotics have reduced the duration and severity of infectious diarrhea in children, notably rotavirus infections. Evidence is less consistent in adults.
Recommended Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Saccharomyces boulardii, and Lactobacillus reuteri have shown potential, especially in pediatric cases.

Traveler's Diarrhea

Traveler's diarrhea is often caused by consuming contaminated food or water.

Effectiveness: Research on probiotics for preventing traveler's diarrhea is mixed. Some studies suggest a potential risk reduction, but consistent strong evidence is lacking.
Recommended Strains: Saccharomyces boulardii is frequently recommended. A combination with other strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum may also be helpful.

Comparing Probiotic Strains for Diarrhea


Feature	Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG	Saccharomyces boulardii	Bifidobacterium lactis
Type	Lactic acid bacteria	Probiotic yeast	Bifidobacteria
Mechanism	Enhances immune response, restores gut flora, competes with pathogens.	Adheres to and removes harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. Transient and does not permanently colonize.	Strengthens gut barrier and produces short-chain fatty acids.
Key Uses for Diarrhea	Acute infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD).	AAD, traveler's diarrhea, C. difficile infections.	AAD, can be combined with other probiotics.
Effectiveness	Well-researched, particularly in children.	Strongly recommended for traveler's and C. difficile diarrhea prevention.	Helps rebalance gut microbiota, especially after antibiotics.
Considerations	Well-tolerated, widely studied.	As a yeast, it is not susceptible to antibiotics. Can be taken with antibiotics.	Can be found in many dairy products like yogurt.

Important Safety Considerations

Probiotics are generally safe for healthy individuals. However, consider the following:

Temporary Digestive Upset: Initial use may cause gas, bloating, or mild diarrhea as the gut adjusts, typically resolving within days or weeks.
Compromised Immune Systems: Individuals with weakened immune systems should avoid probiotics due to a small infection risk and should always consult a doctor first.
Underlying Conditions: Probiotics can worsen symptoms in conditions like SIBO and should be used cautiously or avoided.

What to Look for in a Probiotic Supplement

When selecting a probiotic for diarrhea, consider:

Strain Specificity: Choose products listing strains proven effective for your type of diarrhea, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces boulardii.
Colony-Forming Units (CFUs): The amount of CFUs is a measure of the live bacteria in the product. It is important to look for products that specify the CFU count.
Delivery and Storage: Some probiotics need refrigeration; look for formulations that protect the live cultures from stomach acid.
Reputable Manufacturer: Opt for brands known for quality and accurate labeling.

The Role of Timing

When to Take Probiotics

For AAD, starting within 48 hours of the first antibiotic dose and continuing for at least 7–14 days post-antibiotic treatment may be helpful. For general diarrhea relief, some sources suggest beginning at symptom onset and continuing for 7–10 days after symptoms resolve. To prevent traveler's diarrhea, starting a few days before your trip and continuing throughout may be considered.

How to Take Probiotics

It is often recommended to space probiotic doses at least two hours apart from antibiotics to maintain probiotic viability. Some probiotics may be better absorbed on an empty stomach, while others are fine with food. Always follow product label instructions.

Conclusion

Using probiotics during diarrhea can help restore gut balance and potentially lessen the duration and severity of symptoms, particularly for AAD, infectious, and traveler's diarrhea. The effectiveness is highly dependent on the specific strain and the cause of the diarrhea. Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii are well-supported by research. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to determine the most suitable approach, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems or other health conditions, ensuring safe and effective use. While mild initial digestive discomfort is possible, serious side effects are uncommon in healthy individuals. Proper strain selection and timing are critical for optimal results.

Frequently Asked Questions

For treating antibiotic-associated diarrhea, the best-researched strains are Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii. For infectious diarrhea, especially in children, these two strains plus Lactobacillus reuteri are often recommended. The most effective strain depends on the specific cause of your diarrhea.

Yes, in many cases, especially if your diarrhea is caused by antibiotics or a viral infection. Probiotics can help restore the balance of your gut flora, which can speed up recovery. However, individuals with compromised immune systems should consult a doctor before taking them.

It is unlikely that probiotics cause diarrhea. However, when first starting a supplement, some people may experience minor, temporary digestive upset like gas or soft stools as their gut microbiome adjusts. This usually resolves on its own.

For acute infectious diarrhea, it's often recommended to continue taking probiotics for 7 to 10 days after symptoms subside. For antibiotic-associated diarrhea, continue for at least one week after finishing the antibiotic course.

To prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, starting probiotics within 48 hours of your first dose of antibiotics may be considered. Continuing them for at least a week after you finish your antibiotic course may help restore gut health.

The effective amount of Colony-Forming Units (CFUs) can vary depending on the strain. It is important to check the product label and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Yes, some evidence suggests that certain probiotics can help prevent traveler's diarrhea. Saccharomyces boulardii is often recommended, and starting it a few days before and continuing throughout your trip may help.