Probiotics, anyone? Also a question re: Imodium...

[Lucy_B]

Hi, folks! I've done a bit of research on this site and see that many people do not tolerate probiotics, at least in the beginning stages of treatment. But are there any of you who HAVE seen some benefit from using them? And are there any particular strains/brands that you trust? I was recently on a course of antibiotics (Cipro) and feel that I need to take something to replenish the healthy bacteria, as my D was definitely worsened during the abx. I've been using probiotics routinely for quite some time now, as I never realized they could do anything but help. What are your thoughts? I currently take saccharomyces boulardii (Florastor) and something called Ultrabiotics that contains a probiotic. I certainly haven't felt that they made things worse, but maybe they are and I just don't know it? Speaking of which, I have been taking 4 Imodium pills daily (two a.m./two p.m.) for about 4 months now. I started with just 2 a day, but when that eventually stopped working, I bumped up to 4. It definitely helps with consistency/manageability, but I still can't keep weight on, etc. Do any of you use Imodium (loperamide) routinely? Are there any concerns with doing this, in terms of masking symptoms, etc.? My doc assured me that it's safe even in high doses, but I'd love to get your feedback on this. Many thanks!

[Sheila]

Lucy, I took sacromyces boulardii when I first got sick with MC. My MC was triggered by a severe reaction to an antibiotic. I stayed on this for about a year, until I got my symptoms under control through a GF, SF, DF and EF diet and Entocort. Be careful with probiotics, some can make symptoms worse.

I took a lot of Imodium for several months until I was confident there would be no accidents. Every purse I own has Imodium inside. I always have it with me, just in case.

After a lot of trial and error, I settled on a modified Paleo diet. I also could not keep weight on and added in homemade GF bread, occasional rice and quinoa. To learn to deal with MC I recommend reading the book written by Tex Persky, moderator of this site. It will give you all the information you need to deal with this disease.

Good luck,
Sheila W

[Lucy_B]

Thanks, Shelia!