Your Microbiome Explained
Continue your learning journey
7
of 12
58% Complete
~7 min
Learning Card
Probiotics: Live Beneficial Bacteria
Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.
Common probiotic strains:
Lactobacillus:
- L. rhamnosus GG (diarrhea, immune support)
- L. acidophilus (digestive health)
- L. plantarum (gut barrier)
Bifidobacterium:
- B. longum (IBS, stress)
- B. bifidum (immune, digestion)
- B. infantis (IBS, inflammation)
Saccharomyces:
- S. boulardii (antibiotic-associated diarrhea, C. diff)
Sources:
Supplements:
- Choose multi-strain formulas
- Look for CFU count (5-50 billion)
- Check expiration date
- Refrigerate if needed
Fermented foods:
- Yogurt (live cultures)
- Kefir (more diverse than yogurt)
- Sauerkraut (unpasteurized)
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Miso, tempeh
Evidence supports probiotics for:
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea ✓
- IBS (certain strains) ✓
- Inflammatory bowel disease (adjunct) ✓
- Traveler's diarrhea prevention ✓
Not a magic bullet: Effects are strain-specific and temporary (need ongoing consumption).
←
Previous
→
Next