All activities will be related to research. Participants will be randomized to receive either over-the-counter acid suppression medication or placebo from weeks -2 through week 4. All participants will receive VSL #3 (over-the-counter probiotic) from weeks 0 through 4. Survey data, serum, and stool samples will be collected at weeks -2, 0, and 4.
The intervention medication and probiotics have a very low side effect profile and are available over the counter. All data collection methods are non-invasive.
Elucidation of the effects of acid suppression on probiotic colonization will allow us to better understand the utility of probiotics use by individuals on acid suppression medications.
