Probiotics, known as lactic acid bacillus, are good for health. They are actively marketed as dietary supplements, and many people with rheumatic diseases think that taking probiotics could help manage their diseases.

However, can probiotic products help manage rheumatic diseases?

“Many probiotics are being marketed as dietary supplements, and while it is true that they have some useful effects, they also have many side effects,” said Professor Lee Sang-il of the Department of Rheumatology at Gyeongsang National University Hospital on the Korean College of Rheumatology’s YouTube channel, “Arthritis Rheumatism TV.”

In the U.S., probiotics are also contraindicated for people with compromised immune systems. “The U.S. Food and Drug Administration prohibits probiotics as a general rule for people who are taking immunosuppressants or have a condition that may make them immunocompromised,” Lee explained.

Rheumatic diseases, a type of autoimmune disease, are not immunosuppressive, but some medications can suppress the immune system, so it's important to talk to your doctor about taking probiotics as a dietary supplement, Professor Lee noted.

So, what do doctors who specialize in rheumatic diseases say when patients ask them about probiotics?

“I would advise patients who are taking antirheumatic drugs or biologics or who have very active rheumatic diseases to avoid taking probiotic supplements,” Lee advised.