Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can positively affect the body when administered in sufficient amounts. Some of the most common probiotic uses are to aid digestion and treat diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and even acne. Another use is to help with kidney infections that are usually caused by bacteria and can accompany fever and pain in the side or back. When left untreated, kidney infections can lead to sepsis and death.
When choosing a probiotic supplement to help with a kidney infection, you should look for a strain shown to reduce inflammation and further pain. A good example of this is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG). LGG has been shown to reduce the recurrence rate of urinary tract infections in women by 50 percent. It also helps reduce the severity of those symptoms when they do occur. In addition, LGG is also safe for children.
If you’re looking for even more relief from your symptoms, a probiotic with one or more strains of lactobacilli (such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Lactobacillus plantarum) as well as one or more strains of Bifidobacteria (such as Bifidobacterium lactis or Bifidobacterium infantis) can help. These strains have been shown to improve the symptoms of UTIs in women, including reducing inflammation and pain by lowering levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the body.
