What Happens to Your Acid Reflux When You Take Probiotics?

Probiotics (beneficial live microbes) may help with acid reflux symptoms, but individual experiences vary. They can be found in different sources, including foods and dietary supplements.

1. Some Probiotic Studies Show Acid Reflux Improvement

Gastroesophageal reflux (also called acid reflux, or heartburn) occurs when the contents of your stomach flow up into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that connects your throat to your stomach. Reflux can cause heartburn or indigestion.

Some studies have sought to determine whether probiotics reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a more severe, chronic form of acid reflux.

According to research:

• Findings from a 2020 review of 13 studies noted improvement in symptoms of GERD, such as regurgitation, heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, and gas (burping and gurgling).
• A 2018 study of children with GERD who took probiotics found that those who also took a type of acid-reducing medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as Prilosec (omeprazole), had significantly fewer digestive symptoms.

Despite the findings, further research is needed to confirm that probiotics are effective for this use.

2. Health Experts Have No Specific Guidelines

In the opinion of health experts:

• The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has not issued specific guidelines or made comments on the use of probiotics for GERD, either for or against it.
• The International Probiotics Association says that while GERD treatment should always begin with lifestyle changes, probiotics can be a helpful addition.
• It’s best to check with your healthcare provider for specific medical advice related to your condition.

3. How Long They Take to Work Varies

The length of time may vary based on individual factors such as type and severity of symptoms. In the review of studies, some people noticed an improvement in symptoms within one or two weeks, while others noted an improvement in symptoms after 12 weeks.

4. The Best Probiotic Strains for Acid Reflux May Vary

While perusing the dietary supplement aisle, you’ll likely see dozens of probiotics—but which are the best options for acid reflux? Studies include:

• In the 2018 study on children with GERD, the researchers found positive results with the probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri.
• The 2020 review of studies noted limited evidence to compare probiotic strains and how well they work. However, the researchers noted that studies that looked at the strains Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium all reported positive effects on GERD symptoms.
• You can check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a personalized recommendation.

5. Side Effects Are Usually Minimal

In the review of clinical studies, many people reported experiencing no side effects. A few people reported gas and bloating. Typically, probiotics are well tolerated. If you do experience side effects, they’ll generally be minor and include gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, like gas.

6. Probiotics Are Not for Everyone

Probiotics are not always safe or appropriate for everyone. You should always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new medications or supplements, including a probiotic. Probiotics may not be safe for certain people, such as:

How to Take Probiotics for Acid Reflux Relief

Supplements

There are many types of probiotics available. If you want to take a probiotic supplement, you can ask your healthcare provider which one is best for you. Take the following steps to ensure safe use:

• Follow the instructions on the product label and take as directed.
• Check the expiration date to make sure your probiotic is not expired.
• Store your supplement with the bottle tightly closed, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Food

Foods that are typically rich in probiotics include:

• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Miso-containing foods
• Sourdough bread
• Tempeh
• Unpasteurized sauerkraut
• Yogurt

Live cultures are microorganisms used to ferment food and beverages. However, they can also be used to create other fermented products that do not contain probiotics.

Some fermented foods—like yogurt or fermented milk—may contain beneficial probiotics. However, not all fermented foods meet the official definition of probiotics, so it’s important to check the label to ensure they contain live and active cultures.

Probiotics vs. Antacids for Heartburn

When choosing between antacids and probiotics, it’s important to know why they are different.

Probiotics:

• Are dietary supplements: According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), manufacturers of dietary supplements cannot claim that their products can prevent, treat, or cure any medical condition. Also, supplements are not regulated by the FDA as strictly as OTC and prescription drugs.
• Are live microorganisms: The human GI tract has many microorganisms in it. The activity and makeup of these microorganisms are called the microbiota, which can affect human health.
• Work in the GI tract and can affect microbiota: Different probiotics may have different effects on health based on their strains. Some probiotics may help reduce reflux symptoms.
• Are better for regular use.

Antacids:

• Are available as OTC medications: OTC drugs are highly regulated by the FDA for safety and effectiveness.
• Are used to neutralize acids that can contribute to reflux symptoms.
• Contain ingredients or combination of ingredients such as aluminum hydroxide (such as Mylanta, Maalox), calcium carbonate (such as Tums or Rolaids), magnesium hydroxide (such as Milk of Magnesia, Mylanta), and sodium bicarbonate (such as Alka-Seltzer).
• Provide quick relief.

Other Ways to Treat Acid Reflux

Your healthcare provider may recommend medications to treat acid reflux, such as:

Lifestyle changes to help prevent and control acid reflux include:

• Limit foods that may aggravate reflux symptoms, like chocolate, coffee, spicy or fried foods, peppermint, and carbonated drinks.
• Avoid lying down for at least two hours after eating.
• Prop up your head while you sleep. You can do this by putting blocks or books under the legs at the head of your bed or placing a wedge under the mattress. Do not just use pillows to prop your head up, as doing so can increase pressure on the stomach and make symptoms worse.
• Avoid large meals, instead opting for smaller and more frequent meals.
• Wear clothes that fit comfortably around the stomach.
• Stop smoking.
• Avoid alcohol if possible.
• Lose weight, if needed.

You can also ask your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations to treat your reflux symptoms.

A Word From Verywell

GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. While probiotics show promise, they are not a proven standalone treatment and should be used alongside other evidence-based strategies.