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What's the Best Probiotic For You?
What’s the Best Probiotic for You? Let’s Break It Down
Probiotics have become quite popular—
everybody loves them, everybody swears by them, but what do they actually do? And more importantly, which one should you take?
Spoiler: the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.
It depends on what you’re trying to address because different probiotic strains have different superpowers.
Let’s dive in!
Probiotics 101: Why You Need Them
Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria, some good, some bad. Probiotics are the “good guys” that help keep things in balance. They support digestion, boost immunity, improve skin health, and even impact your mood and energy levels.
But not all probiotics are created equal—choosing the right one depends on what you want to accomplish.
When You’re Taking an Antibiotic
First things first: antibiotics are a blessing and a curse.
While they’re fantastic at killing off harmful bacteria, they also take down your gut’s friendly bacteria in the process.
This is why probiotics are a must when you’re on an antibiotic.
The good news?
Any probiotic can help replenish what’s lost during your treatment.
However, some strains are particularly effective:
- Saccharomyces boulardii: This yeast-based probiotic survives antibiotics and helps prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: Proven to protect against gut issues like C. difficile infections.
- How to take them: Take your probiotic at least 2 hours after your antibiotic dose, and continue for 1-2 weeks after finishing your meds.
Probiotic Strains for Specific Needs
1. For General Gut Health
• Strains to look for: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis.
• Why: These strains improve digestion and promote a healthy gut microbiome.
• Recommended products: Culturelle Daily Probiotic, Renew Life Extra Care Probiotic.
2. For Women’s Health
• Strains to look for: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri.
• Why: They support vaginal health and help prevent yeast infections and UTIs.
• Recommended products: Jarrow Formulas Fem-Dophilus, Renew Life Women’s Probiotic.
3. For IBS or Digestive Issues
• Strains to look for: Bifidobacterium infantis, Saccharomyces boulardii.
• Why: These help regulate bowel movements and soothe inflammation.
• Recommended products: Florastor Daily Probiotic, Align Probiotic.
4. For Immune Support
• Strains to look for: Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium bifidum.
• Why: They strengthen your body’s natural defenses and reduce cold duration.
• Recommended products: Bio-K+ Probiotics, Hyperbiotics PRO-15.
5. For Skin Health and Allergies
• Strains to look for: Lactobacillus plantarum.
• Why: Supports clearer skin and reduces inflammation tied to allergies.
• Recommended products: Tula Probiotic + Superfoods, Skinade Targeted Solutions.
How to Choose a Probiotic
With so many options on the market, here are a few tips to pick the right one:
- Check the Strains: Look for strains that address your specific concern.
- CFU Count Matters: For general use, aim for 10-20 billion CFU. For gut recovery or intense support, 50 billion+ CFU may be helpful.
- Shelf-Stable vs. Refrigerated: Both can be effective, but choose a product that matches your lifestyle. If you’re always on the go, a shelf-stable option is more convenient.
- Prebiotics Are a Bonus: Prebiotics are the “food” for probiotics. Some supplements combine both for added gut love.
If you’re looking for a versatile and potent probiotic, my SHIELD Probiotic is an excellent choice. It combines cutting-edge MAKTrek Bi-Pass Technology with carefully selected probiotic strains and prebiotics for ultimate gut health.
What’s Inside SHIELD?
- MAKTrek Bi-Pass Technology: Ensures the probiotics survive stomach acid and reach your intestines.
- Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14): Supports digestion and balances gut flora.
- Bifidobacterium lactis (Bl-04): Boosts immunity and supports regularity.
- Lactobacillus plantarum (Lp-115): Reduces inflammation and improves nutrient absorption.
- Lactobacillus paracasei (Lpc-37): Strengthens gut barrier function and promotes respiratory health.
- Marine Polysaccharide Complex & FOS (Fructooligosaccharides): Provide prebiotic support to nourish and sustain probiotics.
With SHIELD Probiotic, you’re covered whether your goal is to recover from antibiotics, strengthen your immune system, or maintain general gut health.
Consistency is Key
Probiotics are personal, and the best one for you depends on your needs. Whether you’re recovering from antibiotics, tackling digestive issues, or maintaining a healthy gut, SHIELD Probiotic has you covered. Remember, consistency is everything—stick with your probiotic for at least a few weeks to experience its full benefits.
If you’re unsure where to start, consult a healthcare provider or pharmacist (like me!) for personalized guidance. Your gut health is the foundation of your overall well-being, so investing in the right probiotic is one of the best things you can do for yourself.
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MELINDA FOWLER
RPh, ABAAHP, FAAMM, CHC
Pharmacist, certified health coach and
passionate advocate for women's health
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Melinda is more than a pharmacist; she is a passionate advocate for women's health and is a dedicated expert in hormone therapies. She is graduate of the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy and is a Registered Pharmacist in the State of Georgia. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Metabolic Medicine and an American Board of Anti-Aging Health Practitioner. She holds certifications as a Women’s Hormone Specialist, a Men’s Hormone Specialist, a Dermatology Specialist and certifications in both sterile and non-sterile pharmacy compounding. And, in addition to this impressive resume, she is also a National Society of Health Coaches Certified Health Coach.
Melinda's impressive credentials and experience set her apart as a specialist in hormone replacement therapy and compounding pharmacy modalities. Although her educational background includes traditional pharmacist training, what truly sets her apart is her holistic approach to healthcare, gained through extensive functional medicine training.
This unique combination of traditional and holistic expertise allows her to help uncover root-causes of symptoms and to offer her patients comprehensive and individualized whole-body solutions.