Here Are Some of the Best Probiotic Strains to Help Keep You Regular!
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Nicole Avena
Are you looking to support your gut health and achieve optimal digestion?
Get ready to say goodbye to discomfort and hello to a happier gut with targeted probiotic strains!
Importance of Bowel Health
Bowel health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being. The bowel, more commonly known as the large intestine, plays an essential role in our digestive system. It absorbs water and nutrients from the food we eat while eliminating waste products from the body. As such, it’s vital to maintain optimal bowel health to ensure the efficient functioning of our digestive system.
Our gastrointestinal (GI) tract houses trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. When there’s an imbalance between these two types of bacteria, it can lead to various GI issues such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and even more serious conditions.
Having good bowel health requires maintaining a proper balance of bacteria in our gut. One way to maintain a healthy level of good bacteria in the GI tract is to take probiotics.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics
They help maintain a healthy balance by crowding out harmful bacteria and supporting proper digestion. These “good” or “beneficial” bacteria can be found in various foods and supplements and may provide numerous health benefits when consumed regularly.
Probiotics work by colonizing the gut with good bacteria and restoring balance to the microbiome. They help support digestion and nutrient absorption while also supporting a healthy immune system.
There are many strains of probiotics available on the market, but not all are created equal when it comes to promoting optimal bowel health. Some targeted probiotic strains have been studied for their effectiveness in improving digestive function.
What Are Targeted Probiotic Strains?
Targeted probiotic strains refer to specific species or subspecies of bacteria that may provide beneficial effects for a particular condition or area of the body. They have unique characteristics and functions that make them effective in addressing specific concerns.
When it comes to bowel health, there are several key targeted strains of probiotics that may help support our digestive system…
7 of the Best Targeted Probiotic Strains for GI Health
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
This is one of the most well-known and extensively studied probiotic strains. It’s commonly found in yogurt and other fermented foods, but also is available in supplement form. Lactobacillus acidophilus may aid digestion and improve overall gut health by increasing the production of enzymes essential for nutrient absorption.
- Bifidobacterium lactis
Another widely researched strain, bifidobacterium lactis has been linked with improvements in conditions like constipation and diarrhea due to its anti-inflammatory properties. This strain works by producing lactic acid, which helps fight harmful bacteria while promoting healthy intestinal microflora balance.
- Streptococcus thermophilus
As a key component in the production of yogurt and cheese, streptococcus thermophilus also can be found as a strain in many probiotic supplements. Its ability to produce large amounts of lactic acid makes it an effective probiotic for reducing lactose intolerance symptoms, supporting healthy digestion, and helping to prevent infections.
- Lactobacillus plantarum
This highly adaptable strain is known for its ability to survive harsh conditions of the digestive tract, making it an ideal probiotic for supporting overall gut health. One study has shown that lactobacillus plantarum may be helpful for diarrhea and other digestive issues.
- Saccharomyces boulardii
Unlike other probiotics strains, which are mostly bacteria-based, saccharomyces boulardii is a beneficial yeast that’s been shown to help with antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It also helps restore balance to the gut microbiome by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.
- Lactobacillus plantarum
Known for its ability to survive in harsh environments, lactobacillus plantarum has been found to have a positive impact on gut dysbiosis. It also helps boost the immune system and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
This strain is commonly used in probiotic supplements and fermented foods due to its ability to survive stomach acid and bile. Lactobacillus rhamnosus may help alleviate symptoms of diarrhea, gas, bloating, and constipation.
Choosing the Right Probiotic Strains
When it comes to maintaining optimal bowel health, probiotics can play a crucial role in promoting digestion and relieving digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea. However, with numerous probiotic strains available on the market, choosing the right one for your specific bowel needs can be overwhelming.
Here are a few key factors to consider when selecting probiotic strains to support bowel health.
Identify Your Needs
Before delving into the various types of probiotic strains, it’s important to identify your specific bowel needs. Are you struggling with constipation, diarrhea, or just looking to improve your overall gut health? This will guide you in selecting the most appropriate probiotic strains that target your specific concerns.
Look for Bowel-healthy Strains
Some probiotics have been extensively studied for their positive effects on bowel health. These include lactobacillus acidophilus and bifidobacterium bifidum, which may help reduce uncomfortable gut symptoms.
Confirm the Colony Forming Units
When choosing a probiotic supplement, pay attention to the colony forming units (CFUs) listed on the label. CFUs indicate how many live bacteria are present in each dose of the product. While there’s no recommended daily intake for CFUs – since everyone’s body is different – it’s generally suggested to choose products with at least 10 billion CFUs per serving.
Check for Shelf Stability
Shelf stability refers to how well a probiotic supplement retains its potency until its expiration date under specified conditions such as temperature and humidity levels. It’s essential to pick a product with good shelf stability so that the probiotics can reach your gut alive.
Consider Combination Products
Some probiotic supplements contain a combination of strains that work together to provide better health benefits. For instance, products with both lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains are believed to have a synergistic effect on overall digestive health.
Targeted Probiotic Strains
Choosing the right probiotic strains for your bowel health can be a trial-and-error process. It may take some time for you to see noticeable improvements in your bowel health, so be patient and consistent with taking probiotics regularly for optimal results. Probiotics work best when taken regularly as part of a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in fiber, adequate hydration, and reduced stress levels.
It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Also, be mindful of any food sensitivities or allergies you may have when choosing probiotics to ensure optimal health benefits.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
