Dermatitis, also referred to as eczema, is a condition that affects around 31.6 million individuals in the United States. This skin ailment doesn't discriminate based on age. It is particularly prevalent among children. Dealing with eczema can be a challenge with one third of those affected spending 1 to 3 hours each day managing it. In the pursuit of finding solutions some people turn to probiotics as a remedy.
The key question is whether probiotics can genuinely make a difference in combating eczema or if its thinking. In this article we will explore the world of probiotics. Investigate their connection to eczema based on research and scientific findings.
Insights on Probiotics and Eczema
Eczema primarily stems from a system reaction and probiotics known for their system boosting properties might play a beneficial role.
Probiotics provide advantages, including promoting digestion.
While current research shows promise further conclusive evidence is still needed before asserting that probiotics are a solution for eczema.
Combining probiotics with treatments is often considered the effective approach for dealing with eczema. So the question arises; do probiotics actually work?
Research has indicated that probiotics show potential in preventing eczema in children. A study conducted in 2010 revealed that children who suffered from conditions like atopic dermatitis had a gut flora compared to their healthy counterparts. This discovery led researchers to explore the possibility of using supplements to improve gut bacteria for benefits.
The same study also reported improvements in atopic dermatitis symptoms when probiotics were used. However these findings were not strong enough to establish probiotics as a proven treatment for eczema. Another study conducted in 2016 highlighted that the effectiveness of probiotics in treating atopic dermatitis depends on factors, including the strains of probiotics used, timing of administration, duration of exposure and dosage. While there have been some developments observed there is still concrete evidence to fully endorse probiotics as a treatment for eczema.
The rationale behind using probiotics for treating eczema lies in understanding that atopic dermatitis is the form of this condition. It originates from a response malfunction that leads to inflammation, dryness and skin cracking. Although external factors can worsen the situation they are not the cause; it is this immune response.
Based on this understanding it becomes clear why some individuals explore treatments aimed at boosting the system like probiotics. The idea is that by strengthening the system people can counteract the immune response that contributes to eczema.
Treatment options
Aside from probiotics there are other treatments available for eczema. These include using moisturizers (emollients) to combat dryness, applying creams to reduce inflammation, taking antihistamines for itch relief and using bandages to aid in healing. Lifestyle changes also play a role, such as opting for fabrics, maintaining a cool environment to minimize irritation, avoiding heavily scented soaps and detergents and steering clear of trigger foods.
Understanding how probiotics work
Probiotics are bacteria and yeast that promote a digestive system by enriching the population of "good" bacteria in the gut. Certain foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut among others naturally contain probiotics. They are also available as supplements with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium being the used types.
These live bacteria attach themselves to the wall which creates space for undesirable or "bad" bacteria to thrive. This encourages an harmonious environment in the digestive system thus enhancing its overall function.
Other advantages of probiotics;
Apart from their role in managing eczema, probiotics offer a variety of health benefits. These include improved digestion, a strengthened immune system and a reduced risk of tract infections.
In conclusion
Although the connection between bacteria and the immune response in eczema is compelling it's important to note that there is currently no evidence to support probiotics as a proven and effective treatment for eczema. They should not be solely relied upon as a remedy. Instead probiotics can be used as an approach to managing eczema potentially benefiting gut health and the immune system.
Individuals with eczema are advised to continue following their doctors recommended treatments. Until further research confirms the effectiveness of probiotics, in treating eczema this remains the course of action.
