Key Points
- Some probiotics are now more targeted, with specific strains designed to support specific health concerns.
- Current research does not show a benefit to taking probiotics at one particular time of day over another.
- Probiotic supplements may reach the digestive tract and have an effect on the gut whilst they are there and then pass through to be eliminated.
The world of ‘biotics’ has exploded in recent years. There are now more options on the market than ever before. There are probiotics. There are also prebiotics and even postbiotics, all with their own unique potential benefits. But what are they? And where do you start when choosing the right product for your needs?
In this article, Naturopath Gabbie Watt breaks it down and we explore six different probiotics in Australia.
What exactly are probiotics?
Probiotics are tiny living organisms. According to the World Health Organisation, these microorganisms may have health benefits when taken adequately.
Gabbie says that for a food or supplement to be considered ‘probiotic’, as a general definition it should meet three criteria:
- be alive when consumed
- contain an appropriate therapeutic dose
- have a defined health benefit that’s supported by research
“Each probiotic has a genus, species and strain,” adds Gabbie. “I like to use the analogy of a school to understand this. The genus can be thought of as a school of bacteria. Each species of that genus is like a classroom within the school. And then each strain is like an individual student within that classroom. Each student has different talents that make them unique.”
Gabbie explains that while multi-strain probiotics were previously more common, the approach now is more targeted, with research on specific probiotic strains to support specific concerns.
“Probiotics are transient,” she says. “This means that if you take a supplement, it will travel through your digestive tract, exert its effect and then be eliminated. The probiotics don’t stay there. That’s why researchers are looking at targeted strains.”
Studies don’t suggest there is a defined benefit to taking probiotics at a specific time of day
How often should you take probiotics?
Research into probiotics is continually evolving. Currently, there’s no consensus on how often people should consume probiotics. It’s important to follow the dosage directions on the label and always follow advice from your healthcare provider.
“There is no defined benefit shown in the research to suggest there is a better time of day,” Gabbie says.
Some probiotics are formulated specifically to meet the needs of pregnancy
6 probiotics for gut health
With so many probiotics available, it can be a challenge to know which one is right for you. We look at six probiotics for different health aspects here:
- Perdays Pregnancy Probiotic 360 & Vitamin D
Precisely formulated to meet the unique needs of pregnancy, this broad spectrum probiotic was developed in consultation with pregnancy health experts.
- Brauer Baby & Child Immune Defence Probiotic Liquid for Infants
A probiotic liquid, with a combination of three probiotic strains to support Immune system health, beneficial gut flora and general health & wellbeing in healthy infants.
- Imuni Specialised Probiotics+
Containing four probiotic strains, this supplement may support immune health while also helping to relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), respiratory tract infections and stress.
- Blackmores Probiotics+ Daily Health Gut Health Vitamin
A specialised formulation of five probiotic strains and a prebiotic that may support gut health and relieve digestive discomfort.
- Life-Space Probiotics + Skin Renew Powder
Combining two probiotic strains with marine collagen and vitamin C, this gut-friendly supplement may also support skin health and elasticity.
- Medlab Gastrodaily
A powdered supplement that may support gut health, including relieving cramps, discomfort and diarrhoea associated with IBS.
Probiotics for bloating: how do they work?
According to Gabbie, research supports the potential effectiveness of various probiotic species and strains in the reduction of bloating.
These are:
- Lactobacillus
Products containing Lactobacillus may reduce abdominal pain and flatulence. One research study found that patients with IBS saw a marked reduction in bloating after taking Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843) for four weeks.
- Saccharomyces
Researchers found that Saccharomyces may improve bloating in patients with IBS symptoms.
- Bacillus coagulans strain LBSC (DSM17654)
Bloating is one of the symptoms that Bacillus coagulans strain LBSC (DSM17654) may improve. Researchers say it may also help with symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea and constipation.
- Bifidobacterium bifidum HI-MIMBb75
Researchers have found that Bifidobacterium bifidum HI-MIMBb75 may have high efficacy in relieving IBS symptoms, such as bloating.
- Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856
A research study on Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 found that over 90 days, patients saw improvements in their symptoms, including bloating and abdominal pain. It may also positively impact vomiting, diarrhoea and stool frequency.
- Bifidobacterium infantis
When patients took a composite probiotic containing Bifidobacterium infantis, they saw a reduction in bloating.
Probiotics may support gut health and relieve digestive discomfort and bloating
Discover the right probiotics for you
If you’d like to know more about probiotics and their potential impacts on your health, consult your healthcare professional.
Related:
Gabbie Watt is a Naturopath and is passionate about blending evidence-based practice and traditional natural medicine into her approach. With experience previously working as a Radiation Therapist, Gabbie’s professional background in conventional medicine has been instrumental in shaping her holistic approach to health.
Reviewed by the Healthylife health experts August 2023.
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