Question:
Does taking daily probiotics of any sort lower my risk of getting an upper respiratory infection (like bronchitis, sinusitis, and the common cold)?
Answer:
Yes
MedHead Confidence Score: 2
Amount Saved: $291 avg cost per day of lost wages and doctor visit
MedHead Message:
Cochrane pooled together a bunch of studies on probiotics for prevention of upper respiratory infections. There is indeed some recurring evidence that taking probiotics does seem to lower your risk of infections, either sinusitis, bronchitis, or acute rhinitis (AKA the common cold). I’d recommend taking it during the winter months, when risks are much higher. I would not recommend taking it every day of the year if you are otherwise healthy and don’t have chronic diarrhea, celiac disease, IBS, etc.
References:
1. Hao Q, Dong BR, Wu T. Probiotics for preventing acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2015, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD006895. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006895.pub3. 2.https://www.thebalancecareers.com/average-salary-information-for-us-workers-2060808
