Saccharomyces
Also known as: S. boulardii, probiotic yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii
Overview
*Saccharomyces boulardii* is a non-pathogenic yeast classified as a probiotic supplement. Isolated from various sources, including fruits, *S. boulardii* supports gastrointestinal health and enhances the immune system. It demonstrates resilience against acidic environments, enabling it to survive through the stomach and reach the colon where it exerts its effects. The body of evidence surrounding *S. boulardii* is moderate, emphasizing its role in gastrointestinal disorders, particularly its efficacy in combating infections such as *Helicobacter pylori*. Available forms include capsules and powders, which maintain its viability for therapeutic use.
Benefits
*S. boulardii* is renowned for several evidence-based benefits, primarily in increasing the eradication rate of *Helicobacter pylori* when used alongside standard triple therapy, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.11 (95% CI: 1.06–1.17). It also minimizes therapy-related adverse effects like diarrhea and nausea. Additionally, it may lower overall adverse events during bismuth quadruple therapy for *H. pylori* eradication, thereby potentially benefiting both children and adults experiencing antibiotic treatment side effects. Notably, it shows a significant effect size for reducing diarrhea (RR of 0.51, 95% CI: 0.42–0.62), indicating its importance in managing gastrointestinal symptoms associated with antibiotic therapy.
How it works
*Saccharomyces boulardii* functions by modulating gut microbiota, enhancing intestinal barrier functions, and stimulating immune responses. The exact molecular targets are not well-defined; however, it is known to influence cytokine production and interact with the gastrointestinal system, where it acts locally without systemic absorption.
Side effects
*S. boulardii* is generally safe for healthy individuals but may result in rare side effects such as bloating or gas. In immunocompromised patients, there is a risk of fungal infections. While no significant drug interactions have been reported, caution is recommended for immunocompromised individuals. Moreover, the safety of *S. boulardii* in pregnant or breastfeeding populations remains inadequately studied.
Dosage
The typical minimum effective dose of *S. boulardii* ranges from 250 to 500 mg per day, while optimal dosages lie between 500 and 1000 mg per day. Common practice suggests doses up to 1000 mg are used safely. It is best taken with meals to enhance efficacy. As *S. boulardii* acts locally and is not absorbed systemically, the dosage forms (often capsules or powders) should ensure adequate delivery.
FAQs
How should *S. boulardii* be stored?
It should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain yeast viability.
Is *S. boulardii* safe?
Generally considered safe, but individuals who are immunocompromised should exercise caution.
When is the best time to take *S. boulardii*?
It is advisable to take *S. boulardii* with meals for optimal effectiveness.
What results can I expect?
Users typically experience reduced gastrointestinal side effects during antibiotic treatments.
Can I use *S. boulardii* as a substitute for medication?
No, it should not replace medical treatments and should be used under medical guidance.
Research Sources
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.13214 – Szajewska et al. (2015) conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis indicating that *S. boulardii* significantly enhances *H. pylori* eradication rates and reduces therapy-related side effects, synthesizing results from 11 RCTs involving 2200 participants.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25898944/ – This study confirmed that *S. boulardii* as an adjunct to standard treatments leads to better outcomes and fewer adverse events during *H. pylori* eradication therapies.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2024.1344702/full – The recent meta-analysis (2024) revealed that combining *S. boulardii* with bismuth quadruple therapy for *H. pylori* increases eradication rates compared to standard treatment alone and significantly reduces the incidence of adverse events.
- https://www.florastor.ca/en/healthcare-professionals/florastor-11-meta-analysis-explained.html – This source provides insights into the comprehensive findings of *S. boulardii* as a beneficial adjunct in antibiotic treatments, emphasizing its roles in decreasing side effects during therapies.
- https://www.gavinpublishers.com/article/view/saccharomyces-boulardii-cncm-i-745-for--prevention-of-antibiotic-associated-diarrhea-and--clostridioides-difficile-in-china-systematic-review--and-meta-analysis – A systematic review examining *S. boulardii* for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea and *Clostridioides difficile* infections in China, confirming its effectiveness in clinical scenarios.
Supplements Containing Saccharomyces
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