Can Overuse of Antibiotics Destroy the Gut flora?

Every year, your family probably faces its share of colds, sore throats, and viruses. And we expect our doctor not to prescribe antibiotic unless required.

Let’s understand what happens when its overused.

How Antibiotics Work

Antibiotics, when over prescribed result in the development of resistant bacteria, that don't respond to antibiotics that may have worked in the past. Plus, whenever kids take antibiotics they run the risk of side-effects, such as stomach upset and diarrhea or even an allergic reaction.

Why It's Harmful to Overuse Them

Antibiotics can upset sensitive gut flora or wipe out the body’s good bacteria. Your intestines contain around 100 trillion bacteria of various strains. While some can be deadly, there’s a natural balance in the gut that can be thrown out of proportion by overdoing the antibiotics usage.

Good bacteria in the gut, known as gut flora, help in producing vitamins, boosting immunity and supporting proper digestion. It can alter the gut and suppress the immune system and formation of molecules in the gut. In a prolonged run, this can lead to risk of heart ailments.

Data from 2016 study suggest that exposure to antibiotics during infancy can weaken the immune system can alter the gut microbiome and weaken the immune response for years to come. It is known to increase the incidence of asthma, obesity and inflammatory bowel disease, effects thought to be mediated by the gut microbiome.

Hence, Nutritionists and health experts always recommend natural production of good bacteria. Consume Curds, yogurts and fermented foods like idli, dosa etc to help improve your child’s gut bacteria. Now, its time to think about giving curds and idli frequently during cold season. Serve Fresh and Room temperature curds.

#Good bacteria #fresh curds #gut health