The Best Probiotics for Strep Throat
Published on October 21, 2019 (Last Modified March 30, 2020)
Streptococcal Pharyngitis or typically known as strep throat is a common bacterial infection that causes swelling and pain in the throat. This condition is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria that affects both children and adults.
Strep Throat vs. Sore Throat
Because of their similar symptoms, a sore throat is often mistaken with strep throat. However, these two conditions differ from each other. As stated above, strep throat is caused by Streptococcus bacteria. A sore throat, however, is usually due to viral infections just like common colds, sinus infection, postnasal drip, and acid reflux.
Sore throats that are caused by a medical condition typically go away on their own in a few days. However, it can be uncomfortable, so others tend to seek help from their doctor.
Signs and Symptoms of Strep Throat
The symptoms of strep throat usually appear within five days of exposure to the streptococcus bacteria. Although they may vary for each person, the common symptoms of strep throat include:
- Fever with or without chills and is usually 38˚C or higher
- A red throat with white patches and is often painful
- A headache
- Sudden loss of appetite
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
- Difficulty of swallowing
How Probiotics Help Treat Strep Throat
In treating strep throat, doctors will prescribe you with an antibiotic to kill all the bacteria in your throat. While antibiotics are effective and you should take it as prescribed, it is better to take probiotics after completing your antibiotic prescription.
Probiotics are the “good bacteria” that help boost your immune system. These friendly bacteria help in fighting off diseases that are usually caused by harmful bacteria, hence the name. An imbalance of these two types of bacteria in your body can lead to a compromised immune system.
When you take antibiotics, the harmful streptococcus bacteria are killed but so are the friendly bacteria. When the good bacteria are wiped out, the bad ones will flourish, causing an imbalance. Taking probiotics can replace the friendly bacteria inside your body and restores the balance in your microbiota.
The Best Probiotic Strains for Strep Throat
Various probiotic strains help in combating diseases. However, each strain targets specific ailments. Therefore, you need to use a probiotic strain that specifically targets the bacteria that cause strep throat.
Studies suggest that the best probiotic strain in treating strep throat is Streptococcus Salivarius K12. It’s a newly discovered probiotic strain that is beneficial for those suffering from certain oral and respiratory diseases. It naturally grows in the mouth and throat of healthy adults and children.
BLIS K12, a specific strain of Streptococcus Salivarius K12, especially targets mouth and throat diseases such as step throat. It colonizes your oral cavities and pushes out the harmful bacteria. This strain is also scientifically proven to reduce upper respiratory infections and halitosis.
A study conducted with children in Italy also suggests that BLIS K12 inhibits the growth of streptococcal bacteria in children’s throats. Almost all of the children who were treated with BLIS K12 probiotics for 90 days reported up to 90% lesser incidence of strep throat infections. Follow-up studies also reported no side effects.
Though there are plenty of probiotic supplements, most of them are geared for gut health. Only a few of them are particularly formulated for improving oral health. One such probiotic supplement is Bionaze. It’s made with two cutting-edge probiotic strains: BLIS-K12 and Bl-04. These strains help in preventing various oral and respiratory problems including strep throat.
How to Prevent Strep Throat
The best way to avoid unnecessary and unwanted complications is to avoid having strep throat. Unfortunately, there is no vaccine yet for this bacterial infection. But there are other ways to prevent strep throat such as:
- Regular hand washing. Good 0ld soap and water is effective in killing most viruses and bacteria including those that cause strep throat.
- Sanitize. In case soap and water are not readily accessible, be sure to keep a bottle of hand sanitizer with you at all times.
- No food sharing. Sharing foods is one of the most common ways of spreading bacteria. So do not share food or drinks to anyone, especially those who have strep throat.
- Take probiotic supplements. Be sure to take a supplement that contains the BLIS-K12 strain.
Complications of Strep Throat
While strep throat might be common, you should know that having a strep throat often is alarming. Frequent strep throat may lead to serious diseases such as:
- Otitis media or ear infection
- Sinusitis
- Mastoiditis
- Scarlet fever
- Rheumatic fever
- Retropharyngeal abscess
- Kidney disorders
So if your strep throat persists, it’s always best to consult your doctor at once.
For continued reading on this topic check out the best probiotics according to science.
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Bionaze is a proprietary blend of probiotics proven to promote ear, nose, and throat health, improve digestion, and support your immune system. The active ingredients BLIS K12, and BL-04 are considered among the best probiotics according to science.
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About The Author
Judy Ponio is a professional writer based in the Philippines. Her commitment to communicating factual content in when writing is unmatched. She works hard to cross check reputable sources to ensure her work uses accurate facts.
