Natural probiotics supplements are picking up steam for their irresistible promise of a healthy, balanced digestive system. But of all the many probiotic preparations available on the market, how do you single out the finest? Here are eleven tips to help you pick the best probiotic supplement.

This post was submitted by Brenda Albano, owner of Whole Family Products and a successful fertility coach, mentor, and entrepreneur.

TIPS TO CHOOSE THE BEST NATURAL PROBIOTICS SUPPLEMENTS

1. It Must Contain Live, Active Bacterial Cultures.

Your chosen probiotic will only benefit you if it is rich in live microorganisms. These good bacteria work closely together with our already-existing intestinal flora in fighfting harmful organisms that cause illness, aiding in proper digestion and bowel movement, and generating vitamins that boost the immune system. For our bodies to enjoy these advantages and many more, it is vital to select a probiotic source with active, living microorganisms.

2. Count Its Colony-Forming Units (CFU).

We never count to a billion. But for probiotic products to be effective, they must have a sufficient amount of live, beneficial bacteria – to the billions. Fortunately, reputed probiotics providers have done the count for us. Studies say that the appropriate probiotic dosage for children must range from 5 to 10 billion CFU per day, while for adults, it is 10 to 20 billion CFU per day. So, don’t forget to watch the numbers.

3. Check for Its Expiration Date.

Just as with other supplements, probiotics definitely have a shelf-life! In fact, theirs are quite limited. Therefore, it is important to use them right before their expiry dates. This practice ensures that the live microorganisms retain their potency. Also, always follow the label’s instructions for proper storage to guarantee the life of the probiotic strains at the time of use.

4. Choose the Right Type for You.  

There are numerous species of probiotics, each having their own specific function. Those classified as lactic acid bacteria in particular, such as the popular Lactobacillus and the lesser known Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus, are widely recognized for their nutritional value, hence, these bacterial species and their strains have been made available commercially in dairy products like yogurt and cheese, and non-dairy products like soy drinks and supplements with probiotic for digestive system.

5. Know the Probiotic Strain You Need.

Probiotic species come in different bacterial strains, which target specific conditions according to some clinical data. Considering this, it is necessary that you limit your choice to what you really need before making a purchase. Check out the succeeding tips to learn about common probiotic strains and their uses.

6. Use Lactobacillus acidophilus for Diarrhea, Vaginal Health, and Acne.

This very helpful strain has been discovered by several researchers to manage diarrhea, reducing its length and severity in both children and adults.

L. acidophilus binds to intestinal cells and fights bacterial infection in the bowels. Additionally, a study of Scandinavian women with vaginal bacterial and yeast infections revealed that administering to them probiotic capsules containing L. acidophilus and other Lactobacilli cultures were associated with alleviating their vaginal infection. What’s more, L. acidophilus has also been proven to promote clear, beautiful skin by reducing those annoying acne!

7. Use Lactobacillus plantarum for Inflammation.

Those suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative colitis may be able to find hope from the results of this study that says L. plantarum strain is effective in managing inflammatory bowel diseases, as well as lowering pain intensity and bloating from Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

8. Use Bifidobacterium lactis for Immunity.

If you’re looking for a natural immune booster, consuming products rich in this probiotic may be the answer. A certain article published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that the antibody levels of people who took a probiotic supplement at regular intervals were higher than those who took a placebo, concluding that the B. lactis strain may help strengthen the immune system.

9. Use Streptococcus thermophilus for GI Support and Skin Support.

For the yogurt lovers out there, this probiotic and its health benefits are all yours. Live S. thermophilus strain is a famous component of many yogurt drinks, making it very enjoyable and convenient to gulp down and do wonders in your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Laboratory experiments on mice revealed that milk fermented by S. thermophilus microorganisms produced a therapeutic effect on chronic gastritis. As a result of the study, its authors recommended that fermented milk containing these probiotics for gastritis may be used as a natural alternative treatment. Other findings have also shown that S. thermophilus cream applied topically on the skin improved symptoms of atopic dermatitis.

10. Use a Combination of Three Strains If Your Goal Is To Lose Weight.

Who would have thought that probiotics may also help in shedding off those pounds? A literature review gathered evidence suggesting that three probiotic strains (L. gasseri, L. rhamnosus, and B. lactis) may reduce obesity and cut down other body fat issues. These microorganisms have been found to help eliminate adipose fat deposits and impede weight gain by improving the metabolism of fatty acids and lessening inflammation.

11. Always Aim for Quality.

We finally come to our last tip. It is advisable to choose a high-quality brand backed up by reliable scientific research of their product’s effectiveness. Do not be drawn away by flattering promotional talk, but always perform a background check on brands and products before spending your precious, hard-earned bucks. Check out user reviews and engage in health forums to learn from other probiotics consumers. This practice will surely save you money, hassle, and even the possible danger of side effects. 

Natural probiotics supplements come in many shapes, forms and brands. You just have to find the best probiotic supplement that works for you. Be that probiotics for gastritis, probiotic for digestive system and digestive enzyme supplements for immunity, you certainly would be able to find a product that can deliver the results you need. 

Here are a few of our favourites:

So, now that you’ve read all our tips in choosing the best natural probiotics supplements, do you think you’re now ready to choose from a wide selection of probiotics on the market? Are you thinking of any probiotic brands that have met your requirements? Share with us in the comments section below.

Brenda Albano

Brenda Albano is the owner of Whole Family Products, a successful fertility coach, mentor, and entrepreneur. Her website Beyond Fertility focuses on her infertility struggles which she turned into an opportunity to help others. She is passionate about sharing her journey to hormonal health through blogging and uses this passion to create natural hormone creams and supplements for all stages of life.

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