Probiotic Supplements - Benefits and Dosage

Probiotic supplements contain beneficial bacteria that can help maintain a healthy balance in the digestive system.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in pharmacies and health stores.
Applicable for
Prepared by Shruti Sahoo, reviewed by Dr. Eugene Smith

Probiotic Supplements FAQ


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What is a probiotic supplement?

The human body has many different types of microorganisms that live on and inside it, called the microbiome . A probiotic supplement aims to change the makeup of the microbiome to provide some health benefits. The challenge is in knowing which probiotic is helpful and for which health problem.

Should you take a probiotic supplement?

A probiotic supplement aims to change the makeup of the microbiome to provide some health benefits. The challenge is in knowing which probiotic is helpful and for which health problem. There is little in the way of guidance available on who should take probiotics and when.

What makes a good probiotic?

For a probiotic to have any benefit to your health, it must: Be of a variety that has proven benefits for your body. Be in a form that’s safe to consume or apply to your body. Contain viable microbes that have survived the commercial process. Be able to survive the journey through your digestive tract (if it’s an oral probiotic).

Do dietary supplements contain probiotics?

Dietary supplements labeled as probiotics contain a wide variety of microorganisms and amounts. Many of these supplements have not been studied, so their health effects, if any, are not known. The Supplement Facts label on a dietary supplement that contains probiotics lists the total weight of the microorganisms in the product.

Can a probiotic supplement be used as a medication?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulate probiotics for medical purposes. However, they do not consider probiotic supplements to be medication and so do not monitor claims about probiotic contents. A person cannot be sure exactly what a product contains. Also, it is not always clear how long a probiotic stays active in the body.

Are probiotic supplements good for your gut health?

However, probiotic supplements may offer a wide range of benefits with few side effects. As such, if you’re interested in improving your gut health, they could be worth a try. Be sure to talk to your healthcare provider first to make sure you’re trying the right strains in the right amounts and avoid any side effects.

Probiotic Supplements References

If you want to know more about Probiotic Supplements, consider exploring links below:

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