What is a Die-Off Response From a Probiotic?
If you are experiencing a die-off response from taking a probiotic, our best advice is typically not to stop, but instead to simply slow down the dosage.
For our Lifted Probiotics, you can do this by opening the capsule and pouring some of the contents into a drink, applesauce or yogurt.
Just don’t use oatmeal or other hot foods, as it may damage the good bacteria before it gets where it needs to go.
How to go slow with my probiotic dose?
You can pour 1/4 of the capsule or even 1/8 (or even less if you want!) into your food or beverage of choice. After you can tell how your body is tolerating the new, low dosage, you can slowly work your way up. You can also simply
Why does going slower help?
Lessening the dosage allows the body time to get used to the new bacteria.
Typically, having an issue with a new probiotic is often sign that your body needs that good bacteria, and die-off of bad bacteria is causing the response.
Headache, fatigue, or irritability are not common, but they are possible.
Many people experience more mild effects like minor gas or bloating.
Herx reaction?
If you experience some side-effects when starting your new probiotic, it’s possible your body is herxing, or having a herx-reaction.
This basically means the probiotic is working and that your body needed that good bacteria and the treatment is going to work!
If your symptoms don’t get better from a lessened dosage, of course, try giving your body a break from the good bacteria (probiotic) entirely.
Why slowing works
The key is to go slower to give your body time to get used to the new bacteria and allow your body to adjust.
Please note, some people will not have any issues at all. How our microbiome handles the influx of new, good bacteria varies from person-to-person.
There are so many benefits from taking a probiotic, it really is worth it to find a probiotic that works well for you!
Your turn
Have you experienced issues when first starting off with a probiotic? Or was it smooth sailing from the start?
We’d love to hear from you!
Sylvia, Cofounder of Lifted Naturals