Probiotics Facts & Myths
Did you know that your body can host up to ten times more bacteria than human cells? Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that positively impact your gut health and overall well-being. In recent years, the use of probiotics has surged in popularity, but this rapid rise has also led to the spread of misinformation. Some companies exploit consumers' lack of knowledge about probiotics.
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It is essential to clarify misconceptions and dispel the most prevalent myths surrounding probiotics. Gaining a proper understanding of these powerful microorganisms will empower you to make informed health decisions. Let us examine the benefits of probiotics and how to select the most suitable option for your needs.
Myth: All probiotic strains are created equal.
Fact: Only a limited number of probiotic strains have been clinically proven to benefit human health. In reality, only a select few probiotic strains have undergone extensive research. Understanding which probiotics support gut health and overall wellness is essential for making informed choices about your health supplements.1
What is a "probiotic strain"? Probiotics are typically labeled by their genus and species, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus. Within each species, there are many strains, each offering unique benefits for different body systems. Understanding these strains is crucial for optimizing gut health and overall well-being. Discover how specific strains can influence your health and help you maintain a balanced microbiome..2 For women's health, probiotics like L. rhamnosus GR-1® and L. reuteri RC-14® provide targeted benefits. These strains support vaginal health and overall wellness, making them essential for women seeking natural solutions. Adding these probiotics to your daily routine can improve your health and well-being..*3
Myth: Better-quality probiotics don’t require temperature-controlled environments.
Fact: Probiotics are living microorganisms that need a suitable environment to thrive. These beneficial bacteria are sensitive to heat and moisture, which can impact their viability. Improper handling or exposure to high temperatures during shipping or storage can cause them to die off or lose effectiveness, resulting in diminished potency and health benefits. To ensure maximum effectiveness, it's essential to store and transport probiotics correctly. Keep these factors in mind to maintain the health benefits of your probiotics.4
How can you protect probiotic products from heat? While refrigeration isn't always necessary, it's often the best way to maintain their viability and potency. Reputable manufacturers usually ship probiotics with ice packs to protect them during transit. Even if the ice melts, the temperature inside the package typically remains below harmful levels for the beneficial bacteria. To ensure you receive quality probiotics, choose brands that prioritize safe shipping practices.4
Proper packaging is essential for preserving the viability and effectiveness of probiotics. Using desiccant packets reduces moisture exposure, while amber glass bottles protect against UV oxidation. Prioritizing effective packaging and storage can enhance the shelf life and benefits of probiotics..5
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Myth: The higher the potency, or total numbers, of a probiotic, the better the results.
Fact:Â It's crucial to use well-researched probiotic strains, as studies typically rely on the total number of colony-forming units (CFU) for specific probiotics. The potency of probiotics should be informed by published scientific and clinical data that show their effectiveness for specific health benefits..6
A study shows that to claim health benefits, a probiotic product must contain 10 billion CFU of a specific strain. Higher CFU counts may lack clinical validation, so it's crucial to select probiotics that are research-backed and contain the proper CFU levels for optimal health benefits.
Myth: Guaranteed potency at the time of production and expiration is the same thing.
Fact:When choosing probiotics, look for products that guarantee potency at expiration, as CFU counts can decrease over time due to various factors. This aligns with Best Practices Guidelines from the Council for Responsible Nutrition and the International Probiotics Association, ensuring quality and effectiveness for optimal results..7
When selecting probiotics, choose those with specific bacterial counts and clear usage instructions. Proper storage is essential to maintain potency until the expiration date, ensuring effective health benefits. Prioritize quality and efficacy for optimal gut health!
References:
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Probiotics: In Depth. US Department of Health and Human Services. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics/introduction.htm. Accessed May 3, 2019.
- National Institutes of Health. Probiotics. US Department of Health & Human Services. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Probiotics-HealthProfessional/. Accessed May 3, 2019.
- Köhler GA et al. Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol. 2012;2012:636474.
- Govender M et al. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2013;15(1):29–43.
- Fenster K et al.  Microorganisms. 2019;7(3):83.
- Sniffen JC et al. PLoS One. 2018;13(12):e0209205.
- Best Practices Guidelines for Probiotics. Council For Responsible Nutrition. Available at:Â https://www.crnusa.org/self-regulation/voluntary-guidelines-best-practices/best-practices-guidelines-probiotics. Accessed April 18, 2019.
