Loading Calculator...
Please wait a moment
Please wait a moment
Probiotics are generally safe but may pose risks for immunocompromised individuals. Consult a healthcare provider before starting probiotics if you have serious health conditions.
Find the right probiotic strains and CFU count for your health goals
CFU stands for Colony Forming Units—the number of live, viable bacteria in each dose. Unlike many supplements where "more is better," probiotics work through colonization and competition for resources, so finding the right dose for your needs is key.
| Strain | Research-Backed Uses | Found In |
|---|---|---|
| Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG | Antibiotic diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, eczema prevention | Culturelle |
| Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 | IBS symptoms (pain, bloating, bowel irregularity) | Align |
| Saccharomyces boulardii | Acute diarrhea, C. diff, antibiotic-associated diarrhea | Florastor |
| L. reuteri DSM 17938 | Infant colic, functional abdominal pain in children | BioGaia |
| L. plantarum 299v | IBS bloating and pain, iron absorption | Jarrow Formulas |
| VSL#3 (8-strain mix) | Ulcerative colitis maintenance, pouchitis | VSL#3 (prescription in some countries) |
| L. rhamnosus GR-1 + L. reuteri RC-14 | Bacterial vaginosis, vaginal yeast infections | Fem-Dophilus |
| L. helveticus R0052 + B. longum R0175 | Anxiety, stress, mood (psychobiotics) | Cerebiome (formerly Probio'Stick) |
Note: Fermented foods provide beneficial bacteria but usually in lower, variable amounts compared to supplements. They also provide prebiotics (fiber that feeds probiotics) and other beneficial compounds. Combining food sources with targeted supplements often works best.
Research is mixed. Most experts recommend taking probiotics with food or just before a meal—the food provides a "buffer" against stomach acid and delivers nutrients that help bacteria survive. However, some studies show no significant difference. Consistency matters more than timing.
Some people notice digestive improvements within days, but most benefits take 2-4 weeks to appear. For conditions like IBS, studies typically run 4-8 weeks before assessing effectiveness. If you don't notice benefits after 4-6 weeks, try a different strain or multi-strain formula.
It depends on the formulation. Traditional probiotics require refrigeration to maintain potency. Modern shelf-stable formulations use protective technologies (freeze-drying, microencapsulation) that allow room-temperature storage. Check the label—"guaranteed at time of manufacture" without refrigeration requirements may mean lower potency by expiration.
Yes, and it's often recommended! Probiotics can reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea by 50%. Take probiotics at least 2 hours before or after your antibiotic dose to prevent the antibiotic from killing the probiotic bacteria. Continue for 1-2 weeks after finishing antibiotics. Saccharomyces boulardii is antibiotic-resistant and can be taken at the same time.
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics are types of fiber that feed and promote the growth of good bacteria already in your gut. Prebiotics include inulin, FOS, and GOS, found in foods like garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus. Synbiotics combine both.
Some people experience temporary "die-off" or adjustment symptoms: gas, bloating, headache, or changes in bowel movements. This usually resolves within 1-2 weeks as your microbiome adjusts. Start with a lower dose and increase gradually. If severe symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks, discontinue and try a different probiotic.