One possible way to boost the immune response to the flu shot is by supplementing with probiotics or prebiotics. There’s evidence to suggest[1] that both can positively influence the immune response. It also seems that the way both prebiotics[2][3] and probiotics[4] influence the immune system could improve the immune response to vaccination. This implies that supplementation could help make flu shots stick. This hypothesis has been examined in multiple clinical trials. However, some of these trials have come up[5] positive[6], while others have found no evidence[7][8] of an effect.
Can you boost the flu shot with prebiotics and probiotics?
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•Last Updated: April 23, 2025
Supplementing with probiotics or prebiotics may enhance the immune response to the flu shot because some evidence suggests that they can positively influence vaccination outcomes. However, clinical trials have produced mixed results; some have reported positive effects, and others have found no evidence of benefit.