Researchers warn: sugar during antibiotic treatment may harm gut flora
A new study suggests eating sweets while taking antibiotics could worsen damage to the gut microbiome. Scientists urge caution with sugar intake during such treatment.
Scientists are drawing attention to a habit that may seem unrelated to medical treatment but could affect its outcome — eating sugar while on a course of antibiotics. A new study has found that this combination may negatively affect the gut microbiome, the community of bacteria living in the digestive tract that influences overall health.
How sugar and antibiotics interact
Antibiotics on their own can already reduce the diversity of bacteria in the gut microbiome, destroying not only harmful bacteria but also ones the body needs. According to the study's authors, excessive sugar consumption during this period may deepen that imbalance, placing additional strain on an already weakened microbial system.
Possible health consequences
Damage to the gut microbiome can lead to serious consequences, since this bacterial system plays an important role in immune function, digestion and metabolism. Researchers stress that a seemingly harmless habit — eating sweets while ill — may be more problematic than previously thought.
While the source text does not detail the study's specific data or recommendations, the main message is clear: people taking antibiotics may want to consider limiting their sugar intake to reduce the risk to their gut microbiome and support a faster recovery.
