Can Probiotics Cause Cramping? (menstrual, leg, stomach)

Taking probiotics for the first time or after a very long time can cause cramping. The reason is because of the sudden changes to the intestinal microbial flora. Disturbance of the intestinal bacterial balance can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

Probiotics are known to aid proper bowel movement and relieve symptoms of indigestion when used. However, a few cases also lead to cramps, bloating, and other abdominal problems. 

This article will discuss the possible ways probiotics can cause cramping and other related side effects.

How Do Probiotics Affect The Stomach?

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that aid the proper functioning of the gastrointestinal system. These bacteria are known to form a microbiome inside the gastrointestinal system. They are exceptionally vital for digestion and gut health, as well as for strengthening the immune system.

When taking probiotics for the first time or after a very long initial use, cramping is quite common.

The introduction of probiotics to the gut can lead to a possible increase in the bacteria flora inside the gut. 

As a result, bacterial fermentation increases to release more gas into the intestine. The heavy loads may eventually lead to cramps and other gastrointestinal problems.

It is, however, essential to note that these symptoms only last for a few days.

The gut gradually gets used to the changes caused by an external microbiome and continues its proper functioning.

Some probiotic supplements, like Biotics 8, have the necessary mechanisms to overcome these side effects when used for the first time. 

Overall, it is necessary to know if any of the symptoms you’re experiencing while taking probiotics might have been caused by other factors.

These factors could include new meals, medications, or other supplements.

Check with a doctor to know whether your cramps are caused by probiotics or other underlying health conditions.

How to relieve cramps caused by probiotics

There are a few things you can do to relieve cramps caused by probiotics:

Increased fiber intake

Fibers are known to improve bowel movement and reduce the risk of constipation. More fiber intake allows easier passage of intestinal contents and proper digestion. 

Increased water intake

Water is vital for our digestive system to function optimally. As a solvent, it helps bowel movement and easy stooling. Both processes prevent constipation and cramps. 

Avoid excessive intake

Although there is no associated health risk with the over-intake of probiotics, your doctor recommends starting with a smaller quantity. Excessive intake of probiotics can lead to an imbalance in the intestinal flora and cause cramps.

If there is a need to increase the intake, let your doctor know.

Drinking vegetable juice

Vegetable juice contains nutrients and antioxidants that can help to cleanse the colon. It can also rebalance the microorganisms in your gut and regulate the digestive system. It thereby reduces cramps and abdominal discomfort.

Can probiotics cause cramping in pregnant women?

No, probiotics do not cause cramping in pregnant women. Instead, they help pregnant women in one or two of the following ways:

• Probiotics aid digestion and maintain regular bowel movements, a problem during pregnancy.

• Probiotics ensure that the pregnant mother’s gut flora is healthy and operating correctly. They ensure the absorption of vitamins and nutrients from food, drinks, and supplements into the bloodstream for nourishment and fetus development.

• Probiotics also improve the mother’s intestinal barrier, protecting the mother and baby against harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungus (pathogens). 

• Probiotics keep the pregnant mother’s gut flora healthy. They allow vitamins and nutrients consumed through food, drinks, and supplements to be absorbed into her bloodstream and nourish her and her growing baby.

A healthy gut flora balance is the basis for a robust immune system. After all, the gut is home to 80% of the body’s immune system. The mother’s immune system adapts to the growing baby’s needs during pregnancy.

Some probiotic supplements can strengthen the mother’s immune system during pregnancy and after delivery.

They are also recommended for babies in their first year after birth. As they also aid the development of healthy gut flora for babies. 

That said, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should get medical advice before using any probiotic supplements. 

How can I avoid cramps from probiotics?

There is little to no evidence that a person can overdose on probiotics.

However, the increased probiotic dosage could lead to an exponential spike in gas production inside the gastrointestinal system. The outcome includes cramps and bloating caused by bacterial overgrowth and imbalance.

Consider lowering the dosage or stopping a probiotic if you notice a persistent side effect or symptoms.

What probiotics are healthy for the gut?

Including appropriate probiotics in your diet could cause significant changes and health benefits. You can take probiotic supplements or eat probiotic-rich foods to maintain a healthy balance of beneficial gut flora.

Yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, tempeh, and kombucha are probiotic-rich foods to include in your diet. If you can’t or won’t eat any of these items for personal or medical reasons, you can take probiotic supplements instead.

The most recommended probiotic supplements are Biotics 8 and Probiology Gut Formula.

Here is why:

• Biotics 8:

Biotics 8 is a supplement that contains the ideal blend of probiotics, digestive enzymes, prebiotics, vitamin D, and fiber to enhance gut health and well-being.

Biotics 8 aids digestion, relieves gas and bloating, boosts immunity, and increases energy and focus.

• Probiology Gut+:

Probiology gut formula is formulated with four live and potent strains of good gut bacteria that deliver 40 billion CFUs safely. The diverse strains ensure no gastrointestinal issues like cramping, diarrhea, and constipation.

The Probiology Probiotic contains the optimal strains to support a healthy gut. The team at Probiology teamed up with top scientists and nutritionists to create the best possible probiotic. 

FAQs

Can Probiotics cause Menstrual cramping?

It’s possible that Probiotics can cause Menstrual cramps. The most likely explanation is that Probiotics can cause gas and bloating, which can lead to Menstrual cramps.

However, there is limited evidence that suggests probiotics may help with menstrual cramps, but more research is needed.

Can Probiotics cause leg cramping?

From my research, probiotics are unlikely to cause leg cramping.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial to the digestive system. While there are many different strains of probiotics, most of them reside in the intestine and do not travel beyond that point.

Therefore, it is highly unlikely that they would cause cramps in another part of the body like the legs.

Leg cramps are usually caused by a muscle imbalance, dehydration, or mineral deficiency (e.g., potassium). If you are experiencing leg cramps, it’s best to speak with your doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions.

That being said, if someone has a pre-existing condition like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which can cause cramping, then taking a probiotic may aggravate those symptoms.

If you are experiencing any unusual side effects after taking a probiotic supplement, it is best to speak with a healthcare professional before continuing use.

Why do probiotics make my tummy ache?

Probiotics are good bacteria that help maintain a healthy digestive system. But this doesn’t mean they’re always easy on your stomach.

Probiotic supplements and foods can cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea. This happens because the bacteria in probiotics can sometimes be different from those in your body. 

The good news is that most people don’t have problems with probiotics. In fact, research has shown that taking them regularly could help improve digestion and boost immunity. 

Side effects from taking probiotics are usually because you’ve taken too many. Or haven’t been taking them long enough to become established in your gut. 

Can probiotics make you gassy?

Probiotics may cause gas and bloat for the first few days. Some people experience bloating when they start taking prebiotics or do not eat probiotic foods before.

Your body will eventually adjust to the new probiotics, and these symptoms should go away in a few days.

However, if these symptoms persist for more than a couple of weeks, please consult your doctor about other causes of excessive gas and bloating.

Final Thoughts

While probiotics are generally considered safe, they can cause some side effects in some people.

If you experience cramping after taking a probiotic supplement, stop taking it and consult your doctor.

Probiotics may not be the best choice for everyone, so always talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen.

Have you ever experienced any sort of cramping after taking a probiotic?

Let us know in the comments below.