Do Probiotics Offer Relief for Eczema? Is the Claim Valid?
Looking to combat eczema with some gut-friendly warriors? Probiotics might just be your secret weapon, but the science is still on the fence. Here's the lowdown on probiotics and eczema.
Eczema (aka Atopic dermatitis) is a real pain in the you-know-where. If your skin's a crime scene, eczema's the sleuth causing all the chaos. But can probiotics be the detective your skin needs? Let's investigate.
So, can probiotics help with eczema?
Eczema is an inflammatory skin condition caused by a compromised skin barrier and immune dysfunction. Common symptoms include:
- Scaly, dry skin
- Redness and swelling
- Oozing and crusting
- Discoloration
- Intense itching
Enter, probiotics. They support a healthy immune system, and some studies suggest they can help reduce inflammation and potentially heal wounds. However, more research is needed to confirm this.
The science behind it
Researchers are still working on figuring out the link between probiotics and eczema.
In 2018, a review of 39 randomized control trials reported that currently available probiotic strains didn't make much difference in improving eczema symptoms. But in 2014, a review of 25 studies found that probiotic supplements reduced eczema severity in both kids and adults.
A 2020 review indicated that probiotics taken during pregnancy and infancy may help restore gut microbiota imbalances, which are associated with eczema. A 2021 review also showed some promising results, suggesting that taking probiotics during pregnancy may reduce the risk of a baby being born with eczema.
Probiotics and eczema: A match made in…
The most commonly studied probiotics for atopic dermatitis are Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria.
- Lactobacilli. This strain might have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, which could help soothe the inflammation associated with eczema. However, there's no solid evidence to back this up yet.
- Bifidobacteria. This strain could help regulate the immune system response, which is often overactive in eczema patients. There might be something to it, but we need more proof.
Psst!. Probiotics probably won't make eczema worse, but you should still talk to a dermatologist or registered dietician before choosing a probiotic.
In addition to supplements, you can also include probiotic-rich foods in your diet, such as:
- Kombucha
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Miso
- Tempeh
- Raw cheese
- Apple cider vinegar
- Yogurt
- Dark chocolate
FYI. Lactobacilli is typically found in yogurt and fermented foods, while Bifidobacterium is often found in yogurt and other dairy products.
Probiotics: More than just eczema fighters
Probiotics have been known to offer a range of health benefits. Here's why they're worth considering:
- Promote a healthy gut microbiome: Lots of research suggests that probiotics might contribute to better gut health, which could affect everything from your brain to your heart to your skin.
- Improve digestive health: Probiotics might help combat chronic diarrhea and constipation.
- Help reduce urinary tract infections (UTIs): Cranberries aren't the only UTI remedy on the block. Studies show that Lactobacillus can also help treat UTIs.
- Treat inflammatory bowel conditions: Probiotics may provide relief for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other inflammatory bowel conditions.
- Improve your mood: While the jury is still out, some anecdotal evidence suggests probiotics could help improve your mood.
- Make your heart happy: Probiotics have been linked to lower levels of "bad" cholesterol, blood pressure, and body fat.
Safety first: Probiotics and potential risks
Probiotics are generally safe to take, but there are potential side effects to keep in mind. Most side effects, like gas, heartburn, or the runs, aren't serious. However, you should discuss probiotics with a healthcare provider if:
- You have a compromised immune system
- You have a bowel or digestive condition
- You have a chronic illness
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH), those with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems are more likely to experience side effects like infections, production of harmful substances, and antibiotic-resistant gene growth.
Bottom line
While the evidence is still emerging, probiotics might offer some benefits in reducing the risk and severity of eczema, particularly when used consistently and with specific strains. However, more research is needed to establish clear guidelines for their use in treating atopic dermatitis, as the existing evidence is not always consistent or universally applicable.
If you're considering using probiotics for eczema, it's a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional first, especially if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a chronic illness, bowel or digestive condition, or a compromised immune system.
- If you have eczema and are considering probiotics as a treatment option, it might be beneficial to include probiotic-rich foods like kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, raw cheese, apple cider vinegar, yogurt, dark chocolate, in your diet, as they may support a healthy gut and potentially help reduce inflammation.
- In the context of eczema, gut health is of particular interest, as there is evidence to suggest that probiotics taken during pregnancy and infancy may help restore gut microbiota imbalances, which are associated with eczema.
- Probiotics may offer more than just eczema fighting benefits, such as promoting a healthy gut microbiome, improving digestive health, helping reduce urinary tract infections, treating inflammatory bowel conditions, improving your mood, and making your heart healthier. However, it is essential to discuss probiotics with a healthcare provider before making any decisions, especially if you have a compromised immune system, chronic illness, bowel or digestive condition, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
