Research on Probiotics and Their Effects

Study Overview

Researchers from Georgia, USA, conducted an investigation to determine whether excessive consumption of probiotics could lead to issues such as bacterial overgrowth, brain fog, bloating, and gas.

Understanding Brain Fog

Brain fog is a non-medical condition that results in mental fatigue, causing individuals to feel confused, disorganized, unfocused, or struggle with memory and verbal expression. In severe cases, brain fog can disrupt work, school, or daily activities. Identifying the underlying causes can be challenging, but methodically ruling them out can help individuals address the issue. Factors such as stress and lack of sleep are known to contribute to mental fatigue, while hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can also trigger this condition. Certain medications, such as those used in cancer treatment, may result in “chemo brain.” Additionally, individuals with medical conditions like multiple sclerosis, depression, anemia, and dehydration have reported experiencing brain fog. Diet also plays a role, with some food allergies and sensitivities linked to the condition.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics refer to foods or supplements containing live bacteria or yeasts that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract. They offer several health benefits, such as helping to restore gut microbiota after antibiotic use and potentially improving oral health and preventing allergies and colds.

Potential Risks of Probiotics

Despite their benefits, prior research indicates that probiotic bacteria can break down sugars in the digestive system, producing gases like hydrogen and methane, which may lead to bloating. Additionally, they can release D-lactic acid, which can be temporarily toxic to brain cells. Elevated D-lactic levels, known as lactic acidosis, can disrupt cognition and the perception of time.

Findings from the Recent Study

A recent study published in Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology explored the connection between probiotics and bacterial overgrowth, particularly concerning high levels of D-lactic acid. The research involved 30 patients with severe gas and bloating and 22 patients who experienced mental confusion and concentration difficulties, all of whom were taking probiotics. The study revealed that the movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract was slower in individuals consuming probiotics, with bacterial overgrowth and high D-lactic acid levels being more prevalent.

Improvement of Symptoms

To evaluate whether lactic acidosis was contributing to brain fog, all participants ceased probiotic use and were administered antibiotics to lower intestinal bacteria levels. After three months, 70% reported a significant improvement in their symptoms, and 85% noted that their brain fog had resolved. Participants also indicated substantial relief from bloating and cramping during this period.

Conclusion of the Study

This study is the first to establish a link between probiotic use and brain fog. Lactic acidosis can be diagnosed through breath, urine, or blood tests. If elevated D-lactic acid levels are found, an endoscopy may be performed to analyze small intestinal fluid for bacterial levels and determine appropriate antibiotic treatment.

The researchers concluded that while probiotics can be beneficial, it may be prudent to approach their use with caution to avoid excessive or indiscriminate consumption.

References

Rao, S. S., Rehman, A., Yu, S., & de Andino, N. M. (2018). Brain fogginess, gas and bloating: a link between SIBO, probiotics and metabolic acidosis. Clinical and Translational Gastroenterology, 9(6). DOI 10.1038/s41424-018-0030-7
Brain Fog: 6 Potential Causes [Internet]. Healthline. 2018 [cited 18 September 2018]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/brain-fog#causes.