Ulcerative colitis, characterized by persistent inflammation that primarily begins in the rectum, manifests through symptoms such as irritation, cramps, bloody diarrhea, swelling, and the formation of ulcers in the inner lining of the large intestine and rectum. While traditional treatment approaches for this condition include pharmaceutical interventions like Entyvio, Zeposia, Stelara, and Xeljanz, as well as surgical options, incorporating probiotics into the daily diet offers a complementary strategy. Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, can play a significant role in enhancing gut health and potentially mitigating some symptoms of ulcerative colitis. This introduction delves into the supportive role probiotics can play alongside these medications in managing the condition.

1. Lower the frequency of flare-ups
Ulcerative colitis is a condition that relapses and causes flare-ups. To restrict the occurrence of these flare-ups, maintenance treatment is undertaken via medicines and the addition of probiotics. Foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kimchi, and fermented foods provide good bacteria to the intestine, restoring bacterial balance and reducing flare-ups. Furthermore, probiotics help lower symptoms associated with the disease.

2. Devoid of any serious side effects
Probiotics are microorganisms that bear similarity to microbes naturally existing in the human body, keeping the body healthy and active. This makes using probiotics a safe option to rehabilitate the natural balance of the bacteria present along the gut. Furthermore, the use of probiotics leads to improved digestion and better overall health. Moreover, in the case of ulcerative colitis, it helps in lowering the symptom of diarrhea.

3. Safeguard against other bowel issues
Other than ulcerative colitis, the inclusion of probiotics in the diet also proves helpful in keeping bowel issues like clostridium difficile colitis under check. Probiotics in these conditions lower the symptom of watery diarrhea by restoring good bacteria along the gastrointestinal tract. Furthermore, it proves as a safer option to opt for when the condition lasts for a longer duration. Moreover, probiotics aid in improving overall mental health, making the skin appear healthy, and fighting off obesity. Probiotics are available in the form of tablets and capsules.

4. Exceptions about probiotics
So far, there are no issues linked with probiotics among healthy people suffering from the disease. But there are few conditions where probiotics should not be administered before consulting a medical practitioner. This list comprises people suffering from poor immune function due to diseases like HIV, people having immunosuppressant drugs, or undergoing chemotherapy.

There are multiple probiotic forms that can be part of ulcerative colitis treatment plans. However, it is important to include the supplement under medical supervision as it can increase the risk of infection as well.