4 Best Probiotics for Eczema

Living with eczema can be challenging, both physically, mentally and emotionally.

The stubborn itchiness, redness, and inflammation can significantly impact your quality of life, making even the simplest tasks difficult.

As someone who has struggled with eczema and topical steroid withdrawal myself and as a Certified Nutritional Practitioner, I understand firsthand the frustration and discomfort that this skin condition can cause.

There has been growing interest in the role of probiotics in managing eczema symptoms.

Probiotics, often referred to as “good bacteria,” are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.

While traditionally associated with our digestive system, emerging research suggests that probiotics may also play a crucial role in skin health.

In this blog post, we will break down the 4 best probiotics for eczema and explore their potential as a natural remedy for eczema.

Understanding Eczema

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by inflamed, dry, and itchy skin.

It affects people of all ages, from infants to adults, and can vary in severity from mild to severe.

It is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and immune system factors.

1. Types of Eczema:
   • Eczema covers a group of skin conditions that cause irritation and inflammation, with atopic dermatitis being the most common type of eczema.
   • Other types of eczema include contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and dyshidrotic eczema, each with its own set of triggers and symptoms.
   • Symptoms of eczema usually include redness, itching, dryness, and the formation of small bumps or blisters
2. Common Symptoms
   • Itchiness: One of the main symptoms of eczema, itchiness can be intense and persistent, often leading to scratching, further skin damage and even skin infections
   • Inflammation: which can manifest as redness, swelling, and warmth.
   • Dryness: The skin of individuals with eczema tends to be dry and prone to flaking, cracking, and scaling.
   • Skin Barrier Dysfunction: Because of eczema, it weakens the skin barrier function, which compromises the skin’s ability to retain moisture and protect against external irritants and allergens
3. Triggers:
   • Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants such as harsh soaps, detergents, fragrances, parabens, SLS as well as extreme temperatures and low humidity, can trigger eczema flare-ups.
   • Allergens: like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and certain foods can worsen eczema symptoms in individuals with sensitivities.
   • Stress: Mental health factors such as stress and emotional factors have been linked to eczema flare-ups, potentially through their effects on the immune system and skin barrier function.
   • Nutrition: Certain foods, such as dairy, eggs, wheat, and soy, may trigger or worsen eczema symptoms in some individuals
4. Common Treatments of Atopic Dermatitis
   1. Anti-Inflammatory Action: topical corticosteroids help suppress inflammation
   2. Oral Medications: In severe eczema patients, an immunosuppressive drug may be offered

Benefits of Probiotics in Eczema Management

Research suggests that the imbalance of the gut flora, may play an important role in regulating the immune system and inflammation, both of which are symptoms of eczema.

1. Probiotics and Gut Health:
   • Probiotics are live bacteria, primarily good bacteria and yeast, that have important health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.
   • These beneficial bacteria are naturally found in fermented foods
     • Probiotic foods: yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, as well as in dietary supplements.
   • Probiotics work by replacing, replenishing and restoring the balance of good bacteria in the gut.
   • It can become disrupted due to poor diet, stress, antibiotics, medications and environmental toxins.
   • A healthy gut is crucial for proper functioning digestion, nutrient absorption, immune function, and overall health and skin well-being.
2. Link Between Gut Health and Eczema:
   • Research has shown that people with eczema may have an imbalanced gut microbiome compared to those without the condition.
   • Too much bad bacteria in the gut microbiome in one’s early life have been linked with an increased risk of developing eczema and other allergic diseases later on.
   • Research suggests that probiotic supplementation, either during pregnancy, infancy, or later in life, may help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
3. How Probiotics May Benefit Eczema Sufferers:
   • Probiotics have been shown to strengthen the intestinal barrier or the gut lining.
   • This prevents harmful substances from the gut entering the bloodstream and preventing systemic inflammation.
   • By strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammatory response, probiotics can help decrease the overactive response seen in eczema and other allergic conditions.
   • Certain strains of probiotics have been shown to improve eczema symptoms, including itching and redness.

Criteria for Selecting the Best Probiotics for Eczema

When it comes to choosing the right probiotics for eczema and even TSW symptoms, several factors need to be considered to ensure that they work for you.

However, don’t stress too much about the criteria. Especially early on, some probiotics is better than no probiotics.

1. Strain Specificity:
   • According to research, not all probiotic strains are created equal, and some may have specific effects on eczema due to their unique characteristics and how they affect the gut
   • Clinical trials has identified certain strains of bacteria that show a positive affect in alleviating eczema include Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus fermentum, Bifidobacterium breve, and Bifidobacterium longum.
2. Potency and Dosage:
   • The potency of a probiotic means the number of live microorganisms or good bacteria (colony-forming units or CFUs) present in each dose, which can vary widely among different supplements.
   • Higher CFUs does not always mean better effectiveness, as the optimal dosage for eczema depends on factors such as age, health status, and the severity.
3. Additional Ingredients:
   • Some probiotic supplements contain added beneficial ingredients that may improve the effectiveness when compared to others.
   • Prebiotics, promote the growth of good bacteria in the gut, can also be included to support the probiotic’s activity and re-populating.
   • Some brands include vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts to provide additional support for immune system, digestive and skin health.
4. Quality and Purity:
   • When selecting supplements, it is essential to choose products from trusted and well known manufacturers that follow strict quality control standards and use high-quality ingredients.
   • Look for probiotics that are free from additives, fillers, and allergens, such as gluten, dairy, soy, and artificial colours or preservatives.
   • Consider opting for probiotic supplements that have verified third party testing to ensure you get the best quality.

4 Best Probiotics for Eczema

Once you’ve narrowed down the brand and the dosage amount, you will also want to consider if it has the specific strains below.

This is a perfect opportunity for you to work with a Certified Nutritional Practitioner who can guide you on this process.

1. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG):
   • LGG is one of the most thoroughly research strains and has shown promise in reducing eczema symptoms
   • Studies have used dosages ranging between 1 to 10 billion CFUs, depending on the age and health of the individual.
2. Lactobacillus fermentum:
   • L. fermentum is another strain that has show anti-inflammatory properties and potential benefits for eczema
   • Studies have shown that L. fermentum may help reduce itching, redness, and the severity in both children and adults.
3. Bifidobacterium breve:
   • B. breve is a probiotic strain that has been studied for its effects on eczema in infants and children.
   • Research has shown that with B. breve strain may help reduce the chances and severity of eczema in infants who are a at high risk of developing eczema.
4. Bifidobacterium longum:
   • B. longum is a strain known for its ability to support the immune system and reduce inflammation.
   • Research has shown that supplementation with B. longum may help improve symptoms in both children and adults.

It is important to remember that everyone’s body is different so it may take some time before you see any noticeable improvements in eczema symptoms.

Probiotics are generally considered safe, but it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement protocol.

Incorporating Probiotics into Your Eczema Management Plan

Now that you are aware of some of the top probiotics strains for eczema, it’s important to understand how to incorporate them into your eczema plan.

1. Consultation with a Healthcare Professional:
   • Before starting any new supplement protocol, especially if you’ve been struggling with eczema for sometime it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional.
   • A healthcare provider like a Skin Health Coach or a Certified Nutritional Practitioner can assess your skin health and provide personalized protocol based on your specific needs and goals.
   • They can also help you determine the dosage, formula and brand of probiotics
2. Monitoring and Adjusting Your Probiotic Regimen:
   • Keep track of your skin health and watch out for any changes or improvements after supplementing with probitoics
   • It will take several weeks or even months to see any visible improvements, so be patient and consistent with your probiotic protocol.
   • If you experience any reactions or side effects, discontinue use and consult with your healthcare professional.

Incorporating probiotics into your eczema healing journey is just one piece of the pie.

Let’s jump into other holistic approaches to eczema or TSW like nutrition, stress management techniques, and natural skincare remedies, to provide you with a a full plan so you can tackle eczema from all angles.

Other Holistic Approaches to Eczema Management

While probiotics is a great addition to your eczema toolkit, you also need to adopt a holistic lifestyle that addresses the other areas of your health.

Beloe we’ll explore additional holistic approaches to eczema, including nutrition, stress management techniques, and natural skincare remedies.

1. Nutrition:
   • Certain foods may trigger or worsen your eczema, making dietary adjustments an essential part of the healing journey.
   • Keeping a food diary can help you identify trigger foods and patterns so you can eventually eliminate them from your diet.
   • Focus on incorporating anti-inflammatory foods likes fruits, vegetables, ancient grains, proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Stress Management:
   • Stress and emotional factors can actually increase eczema by triggering inflammatory response like increased itching.
   • Including stress management activities into your routine, such as therapy, journaling, meditation, deep breathing, yoga, colouring and more.
   • Activities that help you relax and reduce stress levels like going on walks in nature, spending time with family and friends, listening to music can help you tremendously on the healing journey.
3. Natural Skincare Remedies:
   • In addition to probiotics and dietary modifications, natural skincare remedies can help soothe and alleviate eczema symptoms.
   • Choose gentle, fragrance-free skincare products that are specifically formulated for sensitive skin and avoid harsh chemicals, fragrances, and irritants that can trigger eczema flare-ups.
   • Moisturize your skin regularly with emollient-rich creams or ointments to help restore and maintain the skin barrier function.
   • Consider incorporating natural ingredients with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties into your skincare routine, such as oatmeal, coconut oil, shea butter, aloe vera, and calendula.
   • Here are 5 Best Natural Moisturizers I recommend.

By incorporating holistic approaches into your eczema and reducing topical steroids with probiotics, you can help your eczema from multiple angles.

It’s important that your protocol is personalized to your current situation and avoid practitioners with cookie cutter approaches.

Additionally, consult with a healthcare professional or enrol in a coaching program like the XZMA Coaching Program for professional and personalized guidance.

Conclusion

Now that you are aware of the 4 best probiotics for eczema, you might wondering…now what?

Well before you run out at buy probiotic supplements, see where you can make a change today.

Probiotic supplementation won’t heal your eczema or topical steroid withdrawal overnight.

It’s one of the many tools you’ll use on your healing journey.

If you feel stuck or need guidance on this tough journey, I highly encourage you to book your FREE SkinVitality Call with me to see if you are the right fit for the XZMA Coaching Program.