Choosing the right probiotic doesn’t have to be daunting. Whether you’re seeking immune support, considering a multi-strain formula, addressing IBS symptoms, or preparing for indulgence during the festive season, understanding how to read labels and recognising the significance of different strains can simplify the process.
How To Choose A Probiotic
Look for the number of live bacteria per dose, called Colony-Forming Units (CFU). You want a probiotic dose that contains at least a billion of organisms. Different strains of bacteria do different things. So, consider what types of bacteria are in the probiotic. Take note of how you should store your probiotics,1 and look at the expiration date on the package.
Probiotics Are Not One Size Fits All
The human intestine houses 400 to 600 bacterial strains, collectively constituting trillions of bacteria. These friendly microbes help maintain optimal digestion, enhancing nutrient absorption and supporting the immune system.
Various probiotic strains fulfil distinct functions. This is why different combinations of strains are most effective for addressing diverse health objectives.
For instance, certain strains help promote the production of neurotransmitters, such as the “feel-good” hormone serotonin. Others help tackle digestion issues and reduce inflammation, which may be helpful when dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).2
Understanding probiotic species
Probiotic supplements contain freeze-dried bacteria in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and powders.3
While there are endless species of beneficial bacteria, the ones you’ll more commonly find in probiotic supplements are Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces boulardii.3
Lactobacillus: Lactobacillus bacteria primarily inhabit the small bowel, following the stomach in your digestive tract. Probiotics with Lactobacillus species help replenish these friendly organisms, which are crucial in supporting digestion and bolstering your immune function.3
Bifidobacteria: Bifidobacteria predominantly reside in the colon or large intestine. They produce a compound called butyrate, which provides energy to your colon cells. Butyrate also influences various metabolic processes in your body, including insulin sensitivity (regulating blood sugar) and memory formation in the brain.3
Saccharomyces: Saccharomyces is a friendly yeast that’s particularly beneficial following antibiotic treatment. This yeast contributes to the well-being of your intestinal lining by supporting the maintenance of healthy tight junctions and shielding against imbalances in gut microorganisms.3
Why Choose ProbiFlora?
ProbiFlora contains multi-strains of well-studied probiotics proven to rebalance the GUT microflora.4
The ProbiFlora’s range includes ProbiFlora Adult Intensive Rescue – 9 Strain, ProbiFlora Adult Classic Bowel Support – 4 Strain, ProbiFlora Adult Everyday Flora Balance – 2 Strain, ProbiFlora Rx Intestinal Flora Care, ProbiFlora Junior Everyday Flora Balance, ProbiFlora Probiotic Infant Drops 3 strain-Regular drops, and ProbiFlora Junior Fit For School Chewable Tablets.
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ProbiFlora – the PROs in probiotic health – to PROtect you and your family with PROven multi-strain benefits.
ProbiFlora‘s range of products are available from leading pharmacies and retailers nationwide. For more information, visit https://probiflora.co.za/ and join the conversations on Instagram and Facebook.