Top Probiotic Strains and Their Health Benefits

Your body hosts a delicate balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria. Maintaining this balance is crucial for optimal health. External factors like illness or medication can disrupt it, leading to a deficiency of probiotics—good bacteria essential for your well-being. Antibiotics, for example, can diminish your probiotic levels. Regular consumption of high-quality probiotics helps restore and sustain your gut flora, supporting digestion and overall health.

What are the leading probiotic strains?

There are various probiotic types, with some standing out in 2017. Below are the notable strains:

Bifidobacterium

Within this family are four key strains, regarded highly for their health benefits.

B. Longum

This strain boosts memory, enhances retention, relieves constipation, and reduces stress. It also prevents harmful bacteria from colonizing the gastrointestinal tract and supports brain function.

B. Lactis

Known for strengthening immunity by improving immune system efficiency.

B. Breve

Particularly good for children with constipation and for protecting skin from sun damage, it also alleviates abdominal pain.

B. Bifidum

Helps manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome symptoms, enhances infection resistance, and promotes digestive balance by maintaining healthy gut bacteria.

Streptococcus

Specifically, S. thermophilus increases ceramide levels, which support healthy, resilient skin and help prevent infections by boosting antioxidants.

Lactobacillus

This genus contains four important strains with diverse health benefits:

L. Rhamnosus

Effective against eczema and helpful for preventing it during pregnancy. It also reduces travel-related diarrhea caused by antibiotics, supporting gut health.

L. Casei

Assists digestion, especially during diarrhea episodes, and may contribute to reducing depression and enhancing relaxation.

L. Acidophilus

Beneficial for lactose intolerance, lowers colon cancer risk, and treats vaginal infections. It also aids in acne recovery, especially inflamed acne.

L. Plantarum

Addresses frequent abdominal pain, reduces bloat, and offers relief from gastrointestinal inflammation, making it suitable for IBS sufferers.

How to Incorporate Probiotics

Foods like kimchi, kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, soy drinks, and miso naturally contain probiotics. Supplements such as Culturelle, Schiff Digestive Advantage, Trunature, and Ortho Biotic are also available. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting probiotics, especially if pregnant, on medication, or with health concerns, to ensure safety and appropriateness.

While generally safe, probiotics may cause mild side effects. Consult your doctor for personalized advice and clarify any concerns regarding their use.