Diarrhea is unpleasant, distressing, and can have many causes – from infections and food intolerances to psychological stress. More and more studies show that probiotics can be an effective support in the treatment of diarrhea. However, not every probiotic helps with every form of diarrhea. In this article, you'll learn which probiotics really help with diarrhea, how they work for stress-related diarrhea , and why the special strains Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 play a special role.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are living microorganisms – usually bacteria or yeasts – which, when consumed in sufficient quantities, have positive effects on health, particularly on the intestinal flora (microbiota).
They help with:
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to restore the balance of the intestinal flora,
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to strengthen the intestinal barrier,
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to regulate the immune system ,
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to displace harmful germs.
Probiotics are particularly useful in cases of diarrhea because they can help normalize the disturbed intestinal flora and reduce inflammation in the intestine.
Causes of diarrhea and the role of probiotics
Diarrhea can have many causes. Here are the most common:
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Infectious diarrhea (e.g. caused by bacteria or viruses such as norovirus)
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Antibiotic-associated diarrhea
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Traveler's diarrhea
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Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g. Crohn's disease)
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Stress-related diarrhea
For each of these types of diarrhea, there are specific probiotic strains that work particularly well. Because not every probiotic works the same!
Stress-related diarrhea – When the psyche affects the intestines
Stress has a tremendous impact on our digestive system. The gut and brain are closely connected via the so-called gut-brain axis . When stressed, the body produces increased levels of hormones like cortisol, which can alter intestinal motility and make the mucous membranes more permeable.
The result: diarrhea .
This is where certain probiotic strains come into play, which have a positive effect on both the intestines and mental resilience.
Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 – The specialists for stress-related diarrhea
Two particularly well-researched probiotic strains are:
Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52
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Supports the intestinal barrier and reduces inflammation.
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Helps to stabilize emotional balance as it has been proven to influence the body's stress response.
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Reduces the release of stress hormones.
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Strengthens the composition of a healthy intestinal flora.
Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175
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Has a direct effect on the nervous system via the gut-brain axis.
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Studies show a reduction in stress symptoms such as anxiety and nervousness.
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Supports the regeneration of the intestinal flora after stress-related disorders.
Used in combination , these two strains work synergistically to reduce both intestinal symptoms and stress levels – a true dual effect!
Overview: Types of diarrhea and suitable probiotic strains
| Type of diarrhea | Suitable probiotic strains | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Infectious diarrhea | Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG | Shortens the duration of illness, stabilizes intestinal flora |
| Antibiotic-associated diarrhea | Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus casei DN-114001 | Protects against Clostridium difficile infections |
| Traveler's diarrhea | Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus acidophilus | Can be used prophylactically, strengthens defense mechanisms |
| Stress-related diarrhea | Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52, Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 | Regulates the gut-brain axis, reduces stress symptoms |
| Diarrhea in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) | Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, Lactobacillus plantarum 299v | Relieves flatulence, pain and diarrhea |
Application and dosage
For effective treatment it is important:
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High bacterial count : Aim for at least 1–10 billion CFU (colony forming units) per daily dose.
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Combination therapy : In cases of stress-related diarrhea, combinations of Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 are particularly useful.
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Regularity : Probiotics should be taken daily and over a long period of time (at least 4 weeks).
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Ask your doctor or pharmacist : Especially in cases of chronic complaints or serious infections.
Conclusion: Choosing the right probiotics for diarrhea
Probiotics can provide useful and natural support for many forms of diarrhea. Specific strains such as Lactobacillus helveticus Rosell®-52 and Bifidobacterium longum Rosell®-175 are particularly helpful for stress-related diarrhea by strengthening both the gut and emotional well-being.
It's important to take a targeted approach and select the strains that best suit your specific type of diarrhea. With the right probiotic, you can effectively boost your gut and your health!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for probiotics to work for diarrhea?
Initial improvements often appear within a few days, with full effects usually occurring after 2-4 weeks.
Can probiotics have side effects?
Initially, there may be slight flatulence or increased bowel movements, but these usually subside quickly.
Can I also take probiotics as a preventative measure?
Yes, taking probiotics can be beneficial, especially before traveling or during stressful periods in life.
