Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat bacterial infections, but they can also have a negative impact on your gut health. While antibiotics kill harmful bacteria, they also destroy the good bacteria that your body needs to function properly.

This can lead to digestive problems, such as diarrhea, and increase your risk of developing other health issues down the line. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your gut and promote healthy eating while taking antibiotics.

1. Eat Fermented Foods

Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help strengthen the gut. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your diet can help replenish the good bacteria that antibiotics destroy.

Some good examples of fermented foods to add to your diet are yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut and kombucha. Aim for one serving of fermented foods per day.

2. Avoid Processed Foods

Processed foods, such as chips and candy, are usually high in sugar and unhealthy fats. These types of foods can cause inflammation in the gut and disrupt the balance of bacteria in the digestive system.

Try to limit your intake of processed foods while taking antibiotics and opt for whole foods instead.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is important for overall health, but it can also help reduce the risk of digestive problems while taking antibiotics.

Staying hydrated helps keep things moving smoothly in the digestive system, making it less likely that you’ll experience constipation or other issues.

4. Eat High-Fiber Foods

High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, are important for digestive health. Fiber helps keep the digestive system running smoothly and can reduce the risk of constipation.

Aim to get at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day while taking antibiotics.

5. Consider Taking Probiotic Supplements

In addition to consuming fermented foods, you may also want to consider taking probiotic supplements. These supplements are available in pill form and can help replenish the good bacteria in your gut that antibiotics destroy.

Be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.

6. Limit Your Intake of Alcohol and Caffeine

Drinking too much alcohol or caffeine can be hard on the digestive system. While taking antibiotics, try to limit your intake of these substances to minimize the risk of digestive disturbances.

7. Take Your Antibiotics with Food

Taking antibiotics on an empty stomach can further irritate the gut. To minimize the risk of digestive issues, take your antibiotics with a meal or snack. This can also help promote better absorption of the medication.

8. Avoid Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be hard on the digestive system, especially while taking antibiotics. These types of foods can irritate the gut and cause discomfort. Try to avoid spicy foods until your course of antibiotics is complete.

9. Opt for Lean Proteins

While eating protein is important for overall health, certain types of protein can be hard on the digestive system. Opt for lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, while taking antibiotics to minimize the risk of digestive problems.

10. Cook Your Vegetables

Raw vegetables can be difficult for the gut to digest, especially while taking antibiotics. To make things easier on your digestive system, cook your vegetables before eating them.

This can help make the nutrients more accessible to the body and reduce the risk of digestive issues.