Probiotics are “good” bacteria or yeast that support our health in numerous ways. These bacteria (part of our microbiome or “gut health”) can be affected by many things including the foods we eat and even medications we take. Fermented foods like yogurt, kombucha, and sauerkraut contain probiotics, but you may also add a supplement to boost your microbiome. Some benefits of probiotics have a scientific basis while others are unsubstantiated at this time. There is still a lot to learn about probiotics and our microbiome health.

Some reasons to take probiotics (backed by science):

• To prevent diarrhea from antibiotics or infections

• To help with bloating and abdominal pain caused by irritable bowel syndrome

• To prevent or treat eczema

• To help prevent or lessen symptoms from the common cold or flu

Probiotics are safe for most people to take, but those with weakened immune symptoms or those who are taking medications that dampen or weaken immune response should talk to their doctor before starting a probiotic.

Probiotics and other supplements aren’t monitored by the FDA and quality may vary drastically from brand to brand. To find out more information about brands, price, and quality, visit https://labdoor.com/rankings/probiotics.

Probiotic Tips

• Try introducing or eating more cultured yogurts, kefir, fermented pickles, sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and other fermented foods before adding a supplement to your diet.

• Research the different strains of bacteria in probiotics to find which would work best for your needs.

• Take a dose of at least 5 - 10 billion CFU (Colony Forming Units) per day to see results.

• Check to see if your probiotic needs to be refrigerated. Some do, and some don’t.

• Store your probiotics in a cool, dry, and dark place.

• If you are taking a probiotic to avoid diarrhea from antibiotics, start the probiotic 2 - 3 days before taking the medication and continue taking them for a week after the antibiotic treatment is over.

• It is safe for kids to take quality probiotics during cold and flu symptoms to help reduce the length of respiratory and intestinal infections.

• Take a probiotic while traveling to avoid traveler’s diarrhea. Start before your trip and make sure to take one every day.