Probiotic Supplements Explained: Which Ones are Worth the Investment?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that help balance the bacteria in your gut. They have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including strengthening the immune system, improving digestive health, and even potentially reducing the risk of certain diseases. While probiotics can be found naturally in foods like yogurt and kefir, many people choose to take probiotic supplements to ensure they are getting enough of these beneficial bacteria.
However, with so many probiotic supplements on the market, it can be difficult to know which ones are worth investing in. In this article, we will explain what to look for when choosing a probiotic supplement and provide recommendations for some of the best options available.
What to Look for in a Probiotic Supplement
When choosing a probiotic supplement, there are several factors to consider:
Strain Diversity
Not all probiotic strains are created equal. Different strains have different functions and benefits, so it is important to choose a supplement that contains a variety of strains. Look for a supplement that includes both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, as these are the most commonly studied and have been shown to provide the most benefits.
Colony-Forming Units (CFUs)
CFUs refer to the number of live bacteria in a probiotic supplement. The higher the CFU count, the more potent the supplement is likely to be. Look for a supplement with at least 10 billion CFUs per serving.
Potency Through Expiration
Many probiotic supplements lose potency over time. Look for a supplement that guarantees potency through its expiration date to ensure you are getting the full benefits of the product.
Strain Survival
Probiotic supplements must survive the journey through the stomach to reach the intestines, where they can provide the most benefit. Look for a supplement that has been tested for strain survival to ensure the bacteria will survive the journey.
Top Probiotic Supplements
Based on the factors mentioned above, here are some of the best probiotic supplements currently on the market:
1. Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra
This probiotic supplement contains 15 billion CFUs per serving and 13 different strains of probiotics, including the beneficial soil-based organism Bacillus subtilis. It is also shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration, making it easy to travel with.
2. Renew Life Ultimate Flora Extra Care
This supplement contains 50 billion CFUs per serving and 12 different strains of probiotics. It also includes a prebiotic fiber blend to nourish the bacteria and help them thrive.
3. Culturelle Digestive Health Daily Probiotic
This probiotic supplement is specifically designed to improve digestive health. It contains 10 billion CFUs of Lactobacillus GG, the most clinically studied strain of probiotic, and has been shown to improve symptoms of bloating, gas, and constipation.
4. Align Digestive Support Probiotic Supplement
This supplement contains the patented probiotic strain Bifidobacterium 35624, which has been clinically shown to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It also contains 1 billion CFUs per serving and is easy to take in a convenient capsule form.
Conclusion
Probiotic supplements are a great way to support overall health and well-being. When choosing a supplement, make sure to look for one that contains a variety of strains, has a high CFU count, guarantees potency through expiration, and has been tested for strain survival. By investing in a high-quality probiotic supplement, you can ensure you are getting the most benefit from these beneficial bacteria.
