Colorectal cancer takes quite a toll on Americans, killing more than 50,000 adults each year (CDC, June 20, 2016). Gastroenterologists recommend periodic colonoscopy for early detection and prevention of this disease (gi.org). For people at normal risk, the procedure should be done at age 50 and every 10 years thereafter. Higher-risk individuals may need more frequent colonoscopies and may need to start at a younger age.
The preparation for this procedure entails a really thorough cleansing of the colon by drinking a highly laxative solution of polyethylene glycol. One reader proposed an interesting question about the aftermath of excellent bowel cleaning.
Does a Colonoscopy Affect Beneficial Bacteria in the Bowel?
Q. I will be undergoing a colonoscopy next month. It seems like cleaning out the colon gets rid of lots of beneficial bacteria. Should I take probiotics afterwards?
A. Your question is insightful. The more we learn about the microbes that live in us and on us, the more important they appear. It seems logical that washing them out might have consequences. Indeed, one recent study showed a change in the balance of bacteria after the polyethylene glycol prep (European Journal of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, May, 2016). So far, however, there is not much research to show whether these shifts in the types of bacteria found in the colon have any implications for our health.
Should You Take Probiotics?
The concept of replacing bacteria with probiotic supplements is intriguing, but again, we could find very little research to answer it. Since the family of Lactobacillus bacteria are depleted, according to the study we cite above, it seems reasonable to try to replace them. Many probiotic supplements do offer a few strains of Lactobacillus.
One randomized controlled trial found that people who took probiotics after colonoscopy had less discomfort than those on placebo (ANZ Journal of Surgery, online, July 17, 2015). So far as we know, the risk is low, so you might want to try it.
1/28/19 redirected to: https://www.peoplespharmacy.com/articles/will-colonoscopy-change-your-gut-flora/
