I have diabetes. Can I take probiotics?
No evidence exists to suggest that diabetics should not take probiotics.
Diabetes is an autoimmune disease that compromises the body's production of insulin. Type 1 diabetes (insulin-dependent diabetes) usually occurs in younger individuals, and makes up less than 15% of all cases of diabetes. Type 2 diabetes (insulin-resistant diabetes) is much more common, and tends to affect people over the age of 30.
Research into probiotics and their effects on patients with diabetes remains relatively sparse. Many people believe that probiotics can be beneficial for diabetics, as probiotic bacteria can improve immunity and should therefore help to correct autoimmune diseases such as diabetes. Furthermore some evidence suggests that the use of probiotics may lower the risk of contracting diabetes in the first instance, by supporting immunity and helping the body to maintain a healthy weight.
Research on probiotics and Type 2 diabetes suggests that probiotics can help weight control in patients who are insulin-resistant. There is very little research into Type 1 diabetes and probiotics, but no evidence exists to suggest that probiotics should not be taken.