Antibiotic-induced gut dysbiosis talks about the disturbance of the normal intestinal microbiota after exposure to antimicrobial agents. This imbalance, characterized by a loss of beneficial microbes and overgrowth of opportunistic pathogens, which leads to gastrointestinal, metabolic, and immunological problems. Broad-spectrum antibiotics is the most common cause. Antibiotics non-selectively kills gut flora, eliminating pathogenic bacteria along with some gut commensals such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium,and Faecalibacterium.
In turn it leads to overgrowth of pathogenic organisms like Opportunistic bacteria (Clostridioides difficile, Enterococcus, Escherichia coli) and fungi (Candida) reduced short-chain fatty acid production, are essential for colonocyte health, anti-inflammation, and gut barrier maintenance. Their depletion promotes intestinal permeability leading to leaky gut. It alters gut-brain axis signaling affects neurotransmitter synthesis, potentially contributing to mood and cognitive symptoms.
If untreated, dysbiosis may lead to Clostridioides difficile infection ,Malabsorption ,Irritable bowel syndrome, weight gain, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose metabolism.
Evidence supports the use of probiotics during and after antibiotic therapy to restore balance. Prebiotic fibers such as inulin, oligofructose, and resistant starch stimulate growth of beneficial bacteria. A gut-healing diet includes Fermented foods (curd, yogurt, kefir, kimchi, kanji) ,High-fiber vegetables and fruits ,Whole grains and Polyphenol-rich foods (berries, green tea).
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation is also indicated for recurrent CDI and considered an effective strategy to restore microbiome diversity.
Do you think narrow spectrum targeted antibiotics helps in reducing risk?
MBH/AB