Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Oligosaccharides, particularly prebiotic types such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), have been investigated as supportive agents during or after antibiotic therapy. Their primary mechanism is not as direct "alternatives" to antibiotics, but rather as adjuncts to help restore or maintain healthy gut microbiota disrupted by antibiotic use. Several studies have shown that oligosaccharides can promote the growth of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Bifidobacteria, Lactobacilli) in the gut, which may help reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and support faster microbiota recovery. However, the evidence for oligosaccharides as true alternatives to antibiotics—meaning agents that directly replace antibiotics in treating infections—is weak to nonexistent. The bulk of research focuses on their role in mitigating side effects and supporting gut health during or after antibiotic treatment, not in eradicating bacterial infections. Meta-analyses and systematic reviews highlight that, while prebiotic supplementation may reduce the incidence of some antibiotic-associated complications, they should not be viewed as substitutes for antibiotics in active infections. In summary, oligosaccharides have a scientifically supported, but limited, supportive role during antibiotic therapy—primarily for microbiota health, not as standalone alternatives for treating infections. More rigorous, large-scale clinical trials are needed to fully clarify their benefits and mechanisms in this context.

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