I have diverticulosis. Would OptiBac Probiotics be beneficial?
Diverticulosis occurs when small pouches bulge out from weak points in the intestines, forming "diverticula". The causes of diverticulosis are unknown, but theories include not enough fibre in the diet, lack of physical excercise, and constipation causing increased pressure in the colon. The pouches alone, without any infection or inflammation, are quite common and people often do not show symptoms or feel any discomfort. If the pouches (diverticula) become infected and inflamed then this is known as diverticulitis. Symptoms of diverticulitis include abdominal pain, cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
Probiotics will not cure diverticulosis. However maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut may help to prevent diverticulitis; it is pathogenic bacteria in the gut which leads to infection of the diverticula.
For individuals with diverticulosis or diverticulitis, see For daily wellbeing EXTRA Strength as a daily maintenance probiotic, as well as For bowel calm, the unique Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic.
NB: We do not recommend probiotics be taken by patients with blood in the stool without first consulting your doctor.