Kefir side effects?

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Hi. I'm wondering if anyone has tried Kefir yoghurt for stomach pain? I had a right hemicolectomy in 2021 and my last scan in Jan this year was clear.  I've been having stomach ache in my lower abdomen and lower back pain for about 3 weeks so decided to try Kefir.  It seems to have made things worse as I am now going to the toilet more often but not really diarrhea. It doesn't seem bad enough to ring my colorectal team but I will if it doesn't improve.  

I just wondered if anyone else has had this issue?

  • I drink kefir and kombucha everyday (as advised by my oncologist) and it doesn’t give me any issues at all. How much are you having a day? 

  • I have had a 3rd of a a 350ml tub each day.of the plain light yoghurt.

    I stopped taking it and am trying peppermint capsules to see if they help.

    I'm getting really stressed now in case my cancer has returned. I know I should ring my nurse but I'm scared!

  • Hi Drama 

    I have found that I react to things differently since my LAR. I had an Ileostomy which meant a low fibre diet then a reversal which again caused a period of keeping a food diary and introducing 

    My operation was August 21 and I’m still sensitive. I can’t have Kefir it causes gas and diarrhoea but that’s just me. 

    I take pro biotic capsules to help my gut. My S.I.L has a Chinese heritage and has recommended me trying them. 
    They seem to do the trick for me 

    Best wishes 

    Ann
     ‍Art

  • The kefir seemed to make me worse so I've stopped it. As you say, it will affect people differently. 

    I am getting really stressed even though my scan in January was fine.   It's so hard not to jump to conclusions at the first sign of pain. 

    Thank you for replying.

  • It is very hard not to be anxious. 
    If the pain persists you could get checked out by your GP although getting an appointment for a GP can be a big ask 

    Can you phone your colorectal nurse?  I’ve found mine very supportive 

    Hope things improve

    Ann
     ‍Art

  •   Hi Ann. Can I ask which ones you take please as I’m thinking of trying some - it’s that or get a dog to blame See no evil x

    Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm
  • Thanks.  Yes, my colorectal nurse is very good. I just feel that I don't want to bother her for such a small problem. I know I really shouldn't think like that.

    If it doesn't improve by next week though, I will ring her.

    Eileen.

  • Oh my.  You’ve just made me belly laugh.


    I can’t believe seven years on and you’ve still got the same issue as me.  
    Love the dog idea but mine are becoming vocal and I can’t blame anyone but myself. 
    Thanks Karen 

    Have a good day x

    Ann
     ‍Art