Here's What Can Kill Probiotics

Probiotics have quickly become one of the most popular supplements on the market, but before you make them part of your daily routine, it's important to know what can kill probiotics. In this article, we'll cover some of the things that could lead to dead probiotic bacteria and how to prevent it from happening.

1) Heat

It’s important not to expose probiotics to high temperatures or direct sunlight as these can kill off beneficial bacteria. When storing probiotics, keep them in a cool and dark place away from heat sources such as radiators or ovens.

2) Stomach Acid

If probiotics are killed by stomach acid before they make it into your gut, they won’t provide any health benefits. To counteract this problem, many people take their probiotics with food or soon after, when stomach acid levels are lower.

3) Stress

Both physical and emotional stress can also reduce the number of beneficial bacteria in your gut, making it harder for probiotics to survive and flourish in your system. Reducing stress through regular exercise can help provide an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive and support digestive health.

4) Antibacterial Products

By their very nature, antibacterial products are designed to kill all types of bacteria – including beneficial strains like those found in probiotic supplements. Before using any household cleaning product around areas where you store probiotic supplements, be sure that all surfaces have been rinsed thoroughly first with plain water or a mild soap alternative.

5) Alcohol Consumption

Drinking heavily increases levels of inflammation in your gut resulting not only in discomfort but killing off bacteria which disrupt overall microbial balance required for optimal digestion processes taking place throughout entire gastrointestinal tract.

 

The Bottom Line

By keeping these factors in mind and avoiding common pitfalls associated with supplement use (like heat exposure), you’ll have a better chance at realizing maximum potential benefits from taking a course of quality probiotic supplements!