It’s no secret that probiotics support a number of health benefits http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=32283. They support digestion, boost the immune system, and offer a host of other positive offerings. In fact, a good probiotic is one of my must-have items. But, what makes a probiotic supplement a good one? Here we’ll cover some of the things you should watch for when choosing a probiotic.
Choosing the Best Probiotic Supplement
Finding a high-quality probiotic isn’t hard but does require you to read the label and know what it means. Here are some of the top parameters you should check for the next time you’re deciding on a probiotic.
How Many Strains Does it Have?
A probiotic is just another name for a strain of bacteria; and different strains of bacteria offer different benefits. A lot of supplements offer just one strain, some offer several. When you start looking into individual strains, you can quickly find yourself up to your neck in research. This isn’t bad but can be a bit intimidating. If you want to simplify the processes, look for a product that has at least three strains. Multiple strains will offer benefits specific to each strain and improves the ability of bacteria to colonize00 your digestive tract. [1]
Does it Contain Prebiotics?
Multiple strains and billions of live active cultures is a great start, but also consider that probiotics need “food” to multiply and thrive. This food is called “prebiotics” and generally comes from fiber. Inulin, chicory root, and gum arabic http://dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=32361 are common examples of prebiotics. A great probiotic supplement will also contain prebiotics from any of these sources.
Is it Vegan Friendly?
This is more an item of personal preference than a hard requirement, but I included it on the list because it’s important to me. Many supplements, including probiotics, use gelatin capsules. Personally, I prefer vegetarian capsules. Also, while I won’t go so far as to say it’s a law, in general, I find supplements that are specifically vegan friendly to be produced with more care than those that are not.
The Probiotic Supplement I Recommend
Earlier this year, we introduced a new probiotic supplement called FloraTrex™ http://www.dreddyclinic.com/forum/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=34639. It offers more than a dozen of the best probiotic strains available for a complete spectrum of benefits. It’s also vegan friendly, contains probiotics, and has gotten incredible feedback from the people who’ve tried it. I’ve been really happy with the results and I’m confident you will be too.
Is there something else you look for when you’re shopping for a probiotic supplement? Add your suggestions for others to read in the comments!
by Dr. Edward Group DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
1. Chapman CM, Gibson GR, Rowland I. In vitro evaluation of single- and multi-strain probiotics: Inter-species inhibition between probiotic strains, and inhibition of pathogenshttp://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22677262. Anaerobe. 2012 Aug;18(4):405-13. doi: 10.1016/j.anaerobe.2012.05.004.
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