A Naturopath’s Guide to Antibiotics

Written By Eliza Caldow

01. complete the full course
even if symptoms improve, it's important to finish the prescribed course.
stopping early may

  • increase the risk of rebound infection

  • contribute to antibiotic resistance

02. support the microbiome
antibiotics can reduce both the diversoty and quantity of beneficial bacteria.
support recovery with:

  • probitoic foods (kefir, yoghurt, saurkraut, kimchi)

  • prebiotic foods (garlic, onion, apples, cooked & cooled potatoes, oats)

  • targeted probiotics (with practitioner guidance)

03. immune supportive foods

- focus on whole, nutrient dense foods.

garlic, ginger, turmeric, citrus, berries, leafy greens, bone broth.

04. support the gut lining

antibiotics contribute to gut irritation and inflammation. support with bone broth, slippery elm, aloe vera, well-cooked, easy to digest foods.

05. space probiotics away from antibiotics
space probiotics at least 2-3 hours away from antibiotics to improve survival.

06. prioritise rest and recovery
your body is actively fighting infection, suppor this by;

  • adequate sleep

  • reducing physical stress

  • staying well hydrated

  • nutrient dense, easy to digest foods

07. rebuild after the coarse

your gut and immune system don't return to normal once antibiotics stop. recovery takes time.

continue to:

  • eat nutrient dense, whole foods

  • support a healthy gut lining

  • rebuild beneficial bacteria

08. if infections keep returning, look deeper
if you find yourself needing antibiotics regularly, it is worth exploring why.
recurrent infections are often a sign the underlying cause jhasn't been addressed.
further investigation with a naturopath may include:

  • immune function

  • gut health

  • nutrient status

  • underlying drivers of infection

Eliza Caldow
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