Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote intestinal balance and health. When choosing a probiotic, one should consider their health needs, lifestyle, the probiotic strain's ability to survive the digestive system, and the amount of bacteria per capsule. It is also important to focus on the probiotic's effectiveness, safety, and any supporting scientific research. Doing additional research on specific probiotic products can help ensure one selects an option that meets their individual needs and health goals.

1. By Probiotics Expert: Dr. Raga

2. What are probiotics?
 Probiotics are live microogranisms which
are known to cause health benefits to its
host by promoting intestinal balance.
 Normally, the human digestive tract has
about 400 types of probiotic bacteria
which are capable of
decreasing/inhibiting harmful bacterial
growth and promoting a healthy,
balanced digestive system.
 Nowadays, probiotics are consumed as a
part of fermented foods which are added
with live active cultures such as yogurts,
or in the form of dietary supplements.

3. How to choose a probiotic?
1. Determine health needs.
 There are lots of probiotic strains that are
available and intended for certain uses.
 Take note of health needs. What specific
conditions are being experienced? Is it
simple constipation or a more severe
form of health problem.
 If the person is suffering from a common
problem such constipation, a probiotic-
containing yogurt should be considered.
 However, if the person has a more severe
condition such as Irritable Bowel
Syndrome (IBS), supplements are more
appropriate.

4. How to choose a probiotic?
2. Assess lifestyle.
 The packaging should be appropriate
with the lifestyle of the person who will
take probiotics.
 For example, if a person is frequently
travelling, a probiotic supplement or
product with many storage rules is
definitely not recommended.
 Thus, one must check for the storage
rules of the probiotic product. The
probiotic products with no need for
refrigeration is actually suitable for
travelers who need supplementation of
probiotics, such as those who have
traveller’s diarrhea.

5. How to choose a probiotic?
3. Search for a probiotic that can survive the digestive system
environment.
 The Digestive system is a harsh environment for different
substances. This is due to the breaking down of foods and
other substances that goes in the digestive tract. In this
process, it is the stomach acid which is responsible.
 In considering which probiotic to use, look for the
mechanism in which it is delivered to the intestines. It is
recommended to choose a probiotic that is able to survive
the acidic environment and able to reach the intestines.

6. How to choose a probiotic?
4. Amount of bacteria per capsule
 In selecting the right probiotic, the
amount of probiotic bacteria per capsule
should also be considered.
 Ideally, a capsule should contain 1 billion
to 100 billion per capsule. Generally, it is
believed that the more probiotic bacteria
the better, but the strain is perhaps more
important.
 Though that’s the case, it is suggested
that those just starting to take it, should
begin by taking low doses. This is to
prevent the “die-off” reaction. You must
accustom your body to it as well as the
prepare for the possibility of “die-off”
symptoms.

7. How to choose a probiotic?
5. Number of probiotic bacterial strains
 There are varying types of probiotics which use
different strains of bacteria for probiotics.
 There are some which use only one strain while others
incorporate up to 15 strains.
 Naturopaths do think that the more strains contained
in a probiotic product the better.
 Some strains are more important, B.
Subtilis, acidophilus, s. Boulardi, b. Bifidum, are some
of the more desired strains.

8. How to choose a probiotic?
6. Types of bacterial strains contained
Here are some strains of bacteria which should be noted when
choosing a probiotic:
 Lactobacillus acidophillus: This is known as the most popular
strain used in probiotics. Research studies have shown its
effectiveness in enhancing the immune system and fighting off
the candida infection.
 Bifidobacterium bifidum: Another well-known strain commonly
found in probiotic products. This strain is proven to aid
digestion, improve immune system, and promote the synthesis
of B vitamins.
 Bacillus Subtilis: Spore based probiotic that can survive in harsh
conditions as well as pass through your stomach acids.

9. How to choose a probiotic?
7. Focus on the effectiveness and safety
of the probiotic.
 Put extra attention to the label and
packaging of the probiotic. Details
such as the names & numbers of
strains, other contents, storage
rules, and expiration date. This is
essential to ensure safety and
effectiveness of the probiotic. Is the
effectiveness guaranteed?
 Also, prior to consuming any probiotic
product, consult your doctor. You
want to make sure they approve of you
taking any supplement.

10. How to choose a probiotic?
8. Search for scientific research.
 Look for scientific data that can prove how the
probiotic works inside the body. This is essential to be
informed if the product’s claims are true.
 It is beneficial to check if the probiotic is safe and
effective enough for use.
 To understand the scientific research better, the
doctors can also aid in explaining its use, effects, and
side effects to the person who will take it.

11. How to choose a probiotic?
11. Read online reviews.
 Searching and reading online reviews are beneficial
because people who have used probiotics before, can
give a picture of what happens with the use of a certain
probiotic. In reviews, people can know more about a
probiotic product if it is safe, effective, has no side
effects, and affordable.

12. How to choose a probiotic?
12. Do Your Own Research
 Really do your own research and see what kind of
probiotics are in the supplement, what country it is
made, what manufacturing practices they follow, and
really the only way to truly know if it works is to try it
out for yourself. Test it and see. Not all probiotics are
for everybody, but that does not mean it’s a bad
probiotic, it just isn’t suitable for your body.

13. My Favorite Probiotic
 Probacto is the best probiotic that I have ever
run into. They use multiple strains and they
are spore forming so they can last while not
refrigerated. They do not use cheap bacteria,
but expensive ones such as B. Subtilis.
 Probacto also contains prebiotics to help
stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria in
your gut.
 Probacto contains digestive enzymes to assist
in your digestion.
 Probacto is enteric coated and made to be
slow release so it will release in your gut
gradually.

14. Conclusion
 Probiotics have become very popular nowadays
probably because of the health food craze. Many
people now incorporate it to their daily diet .
Also, more and more doctors have been open to
recommending it to their patients. Some people even
think that it is a medication instead of a supplement.
Additionally, there have been many companies which
release probiotic products. To ensure effectiveness and
quality of such products, it is essential for consumers
to be guided in which probiotics should be chosen.