Many of us have taken antibiotics at some point, and I’m no different. Recently, I had to use them for an infection in my thumb, and soon after starting, my stomach started to protest.
With a sensitive stomach to begin with, I found myself rushing to the restroom multiple times a day—sometimes within the same hour. I began to wonder if this reaction was common, so I chatted with registered dietitian Avery Zenker.
“Different antibiotics affect the body and gut microbiome in various ways, and their effects can differ from person to person,” she explained. “Some may cause minimal disruption, while others can lead to significant changes.”
Zenker went on to emphasize that antibiotics should be taken under medical supervision. She advised seeking help if experiencing severe symptoms like fever, allergic reactions, or persistent digestive issues. It’s also a good idea to get professional support for maintaining gut health during antibiotic treatment, even if symptoms aren’t present.
So, while my frequent trips to the restroom weren’t completely out of the ordinary, others on the same medication might not have the same experience. Maybe I’d have a different reaction if I were taking a different type of antibiotic.
I found myself worried that the upset stomach would linger long after my treatment ended, or that my gut microbiome would suffer lasting damage. Zenker reassured me, saying, “Long-term disruptions in gut health don’t affect everyone. Just like fingerprints, everyone has a unique gut microbiome.” She added that those with a healthier microbiome before taking antibiotics are usually more likely to recover well.
I also started to wonder if I should consider probiotics or change my diet to support my gut health. Zenker noted that while probiotics might help, they don’t guarantee survival in the gut, especially for those healthy and on a short course of narrow-spectrum antibiotics. In fact, in some cases, they might not even be recommended.
However, she offered practical advice: the way you care for your gut during antibiotic use can be similar to your everyday habits. What you eat matters, especially during and after treatment. Each food choice impacts which gut microbes flourish.
What to eat to support gut health
“Stay hydrated, eat a variety of whole, fiber-rich foods, and include prebiotics,” she recommended. “Try to limit foods that aren’t great for your gut, like fried items, sugary snacks, and alcohol, as added sugars can harm beneficial bacteria.”
Zenker explained that prebiotics are essential for good gut bacteria, acting as their food and helping them thrive. Some excellent sources of prebiotics include:
- Oats
- Chia seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Raw garlic
- Unripe bananas
- Apples
- Legumes, like beans and lentils
- Cooked and cooled starches like potatoes
She cautioned against drastically increasing fiber intake all at once, as this could cause digestive discomfort. It’s wise to start small and gradually build up.
What to eat to soothe your symptoms
Zenker shared that if adverse digestive symptoms do arise, certain dietary choices might help ease them. “You may want to avoid spicy, greasy foods, highly acidic items, and caffeine. Alcohol can worsen nausea and vomiting.”
She suggested focusing on bland foods like rice, potatoes, broth-based soups, oatmeal, steamed vegetables, and bananas, as soluble fiber from favorites like oats and chia seeds can be beneficial for preventing diarrhea. Ginger and peppermint can also help soothe digestive issues, often enjoyed as tea.
Taking antibiotics with food and opting for smaller, more frequent meals can also provide relief. Just remember to consult your doctor about any foods to avoid that might interfere with your medication.
