Probiotics for H. pylori: What the Evidence Says
Probiotics are live microorganisms found in some yoghurts, fermented foods and supplements. You will often see them promoted for stomach health. What does the evidence say about H. pylori?
What probiotics cannot do
Probiotics alone are not a cure for H. pylori. Studies of probiotics without antibiotics show they rarely clear the infection.
Where they may help
Systematic reviews of clinical trials suggest that adding certain probiotics to standard treatment may:
- Reduce side effects such as diarrhoea, bloating and taste changes
- Help people complete their full course
- Modestly improve eradication rates in some studies
The strains most often studied include Lactobacillus species and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii. Results vary between products and studies.
Practical tips
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before adding supplements, especially if you are immunocompromised.
- Take probiotics a few hours apart from antibiotic doses unless instructed otherwise.
- Fermented foods such as yoghurt, kefir, lassi and laban are an affordable option, though their bacterial content varies.
- Continue for a few weeks after treatment if they help your digestion.
What matters most
The foundations of treatment do not change:
- The right antibiotic combination for your region
- Every dose taken on time
- A confirmation test afterwards
Key takeaway
Think of probiotics as a supporting player, not the star. They may make treatment easier to complete, which is valuable, but they work alongside proper treatment, not instead of it.
