Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. Normally, histamine that is produced in your digestive tract is naturally degraded by an enzyme called diamine oxidase (DAO). This enzyme inhibits histamine levels from rising enough to cause symptoms ( 23). This process creates redness and swelling in the affected area, and can also trigger allergy symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, runny nose or trouble breathing.

Those at greatest risk for infection from probiotics include people with suppressed immune systems, prolonged hospitalizations, venous catheters or those who have undergone recent surgeries ( 45, 46, 47). While there are many health benefits linked to taking probiotics, there can also be side effects. Most of these are minor and only affect a small percentage of the population. A very serious allergic reaction to this product is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/ tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. They can be taken as supplements or consumed naturally through fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi and kombucha ( 1, 2, 3, 4). While most people do not experience side effects, the most commonly reported reaction to bacteria-based probiotic supplements is a temporary increase in gas and bloating ( 9).In rare cases, the bacteria or yeasts found in probiotics can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in susceptible individuals ( 41, 42, 43, 44).

Keeping a food diary including any headache symptoms you might experience can help clarify whether fermented foods are problematic for you. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.More research is needed to determine whether or not amines can be direct triggers of headaches or migraines in some people. Probiotics are microorganisms that provide a health benefit when consumed. Here's everything you need to know about probiotics. READ MORE Since a small number of people with lactose intolerance may experience unpleasant gas and bloating when consuming lactose-containing probiotics, they may want to choose lactose-free products. If the gas, bloating or any other side effects continue for more than a few weeks, stop taking the probiotic and consult a medical professional. Summary If you are taking this product for diarrhea due to antibiotics, do not use it if you have a high fever or for more than 2 days, unless directed by your doctor. You may have a serious problem that requires medical treatment.

Liquid products, foods, powders, or chewable tablets may contain sugar and/or aspartame. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, phenylketonuria (PKU), or any other condition that requires you to limit/avoid these substances in your diet. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about using this product safely. Biogenic amines are substances that form when protein-containing foods age or are fermented by bacteria ( 13).

The verdict: Prebiotic and probiotic supplements

Some people can also react poorly to ingredients used in probiotic supplements or to naturally occurring amines in probiotic foods. If this occurs, stop using probiotics. An increase in stomach gas or bloating may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Probiotics can improve your health. Learn how taking probiotics can benefit weight loss, heart health, digestion, immune function and more. READ MORE