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Ep 5: Could probiotics be dangerous?

The Pillars of Health Podcast

The Pillars of Health Podcast
Ep 5: Could probiotics be dangerous?
Apr 16, 2026 Season 1 Episode 5
Ben Eshelby and Nick Krasner

“What is there that is not poison? All things are poison and nothing is without poison. Solely the dose determines that a thing is not a poison." So wrote Paracelcus in 1538. 

Our understanding of gut microbiome science is still in its infancy and yet we are all familiar with taking probiotics for various conditions - often being promoted as being "potent" and "high dose". 

Whilst there appears to be no immediate consequences to human health now, is there a risk further down the track? We are starting to understand that many chronic conditions seem to be triggered by "dysbiosis" or imbalances in the gut. Could we create such a dysbiosis by indiscriminate use of probioitics and overloading on specific strains? Dr Nick and Ben discuss the theory behind this.