Best Otc Probiotic For Constipation

So What Exactly Makes A Good Probiotic Supplement

Over the last few years, me and my team have personally tested out over 200 probiotic brands. And by tested, I mean we actually bought and took the probiotics! Most review sites out there dont ever actually buy and take what theyre reviewing.

Anyway, after trying that many brands, I think we have a pretty good sense of what makes a good product, and what doesnt.

You see, most of the really good probiotic supplements out there tend to have some things in common. Of course they have their differences too, but we started to see some commonality in the good products the more and more brands we tested.

Ill go into more detail in a minute about what you should look for, but before I do, theres one thing I want you to keep in mind.

Its something that a lot of consumers make a mistake about and end up very frustrated

How To Choose A Probiotic Supplement

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a probiotic for IBS, including:

• CFU count. The term colony forming units refers to the amount of live bacteria that a supplement contains. Most probiotics contain at least 110 billion CFU per serving, but some may have more.
• Composition. Look for a probiotic containing strains of bacteria that have been studied specifically for IBS, such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium infantis .
• Intended use. Some probiotics may be better suited for specific types of IBS, such as IBS with diarrhea , IBS with constipation , or IBS with mixed bowel habits .
• Storage needs. While most probiotics are shelf-stable, some strains are more sensitive to heat and moisture and may require refrigeration.
• Third-party testing. Opting for a probiotic that has undergone third-party testing by an independent lab can help ensure accuracy and quality.

Keep in mind that everyones microbiome is different, so a probiotic that works for one person may not work for another.

Therefore, it may require a bit of trial and error to find a probiotic that fits your needs.

A registered dietitian or other healthcare professional can also provide additional guidance to help you find a probiotic that works for you.

Best Otc For Ibs Diarrhea Constipation & Bloating

Studies have shown that probiotics can play an important role when it comes to stomach problems which include IBS, Constipation, Diarrhea, bloating etc. For details read this post: Probiotics and IBS.

So what are the best OTC for the aforementioned conditions?

Florastor has been reported to be one of the best OTC probiotic for stomach troubles. This probiotic is made up of Saccharomyces boulardii lyo. Its presence in the human body does not last for a long duration. In other words it is a short-term but not a long-term good bacteria. If used appropriately, studies show that it can reduce symptoms of diarrhea. It is also one of the best when it comes to preventing antibiotic-related diarrhea.

Another over the counter probiotic that could aid in relieving antiobiotic diarrhea that is triggered by antibiotics is Lacidofil. Lacidofil combines two Lactobacillus strains that have shown positive results.Bio-K+ CL1285: a 2010 study found that BIO-K+ is effective for preventing and reducing the severity of AAD in patients receiving antibiotic therapy in a hospital setting. Its benefits in helping prevent C.difficile-associated diarrhea have also been published in peer-reviewed journals. It is mostly found in the form of fermented soy, rice or milk products and capsules. It contains L. acidophilus and L. casei.

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Probiotics For Constipation: Which Species Work Best

One important thing to notice about research and studies on probiotics for constipation is that there is no one particular probiotic species that is able to provide relief from constipation. It always takes a combination of different species and strains of microbes to maintain a healthy digestive system. What works as an effective probiotic for constipation for one person may not have same results for another person having similar complications.

Most of the bacteria that live in our large intestine belong to the Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus species. So, taking a probiotic supplement that contains specific strains from these 2 species can help to promote bowel regularity and relieve constipation.

Stonehenge Health Dynamic Biotics

These probiotics include 16 strains, substrains, prebiotics, and over 50 billion CFUs.

The product is vegan and does not contain genetically modified organisms , soy, gluten, or artificial ingredients. Also, it comes with a 90-day money back guarantee.

However, it is frequently out of stock.

This product costs $49.95 for a 1-month supply, $43.99 per bottle for a 3-month supply, and $37.99 per bottle for a 6-month supply.

Recommended Reading: Why Are Probiotics Good For Your Stomach

Lactobacillus And Bifidobacterium Species

Saggioro performed a study with 70 IBS patients, randomizing them to 3 different treatment groups for assessing improvements in abdominal pain and severity scores of 7 IBS symptoms.38 These treatment arms included Group 1 Group 2 or placebo. Both treatment cohorts showed significant decreases in abdominal pain and severity scores at 2 and 4 weeks however, the major limitation of this study was the inability to perform statistical evaluation due to its small number of patients and its short duration of follow-up.

A larger study by Whorwell and coworkers evaluating different doses of B. infantis 35624 was performed in 362 women diagnosed with IBS.39 The study participants were randomized to low or high doses of B. infantis or placebo and were followed for a total of 4 weeks. In the treatment group, there was a significant decrease in abdominal pain/discomfort at 4 weeks, along with improvement in the secondary endpoints of bloating/distension, sensation of incomplete evacuation, passage of gas, straining, bowel habit satisfaction, and a reduction in composite symptom score. These benefits were only noted in the high-dosing group containing 1 × 1010 CFU/mL of B. infantis, and not 1 × 108 CFU/mL of B. infantis. The authors concluded that the discrepancy in the efficacy of the higher and lower concentrations may have been secondary to the methods that the different formulations use to release the active agent within the intestine.

Best Probiotic For Constipation Conclusion

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are similar to the good bacteria found in your gut.

When taken in large enough quantities, they can help to restore the balance of bacteria in your gut, which can lead to a wide range of health benefits.

One of the most common uses for probiotics is to relieve constipation.

This is because probiotics help to increase the number of good bacteria in your gut, which can help to break down food and move it through your digestive system more efficiently. Probiotics can also help to reduce inflammation in the gut, which can further contribute to relief from constipation.

If you’re struggling with constipation, taking a probiotic supplement may be a helpful solution.

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Best Probiotics For Bloating Gas And Weight Loss Summary

If you suffer from any kind of digestive system issue: bloating, gas, flatulence, IBS symptoms or poor bowel regularity a probiotic supplement is highly recommended.

Not all probiotics are the same, just in any other industry there are the good, the bad and the average. We have listed the top 4 Probiotics for bloating, gas and weight loss. If you feel you cannot make a choice from the 4 supplements we highly recommend Probiology Gut+.

Branded content furnished by our promotional partners. The Daily Sundial editorial staff is not involved in its production. Content does not reflect the views or opinions of the editorial staff.

Is There A Minimum Age Limit

Different companies may make different probiotics for newborns, older babies and toddlers. Although there is no minimum age specified for general probiotic use, as mentioned above, it’s always important to discuss with your child’s doctor first. “You should always talk to your pediatrician before starting a specific probiotic, and this is especially important if your child has a compromised immune system or cancer,” says Dr. Ferry.

Also Check: Best Probiotic For Restoring Gut Flora

How To Select And Use Probiotics

Picking the right probiotic is key to treating constipation, as certain strains may not be as effective as others.

Look for supplements that contain the following strains of bacteria, which have been shown to improve stool consistency (

• Lactobacillus reuteri
• Bifidobacterium longum

Although there is no specific recommended dosage for probiotics, most supplements pack 110 billion colony-forming units per serving .

For best results, use them only as directed and consider decreasing your dosage if you experience persistent side effects.

Given that supplements may take several weeks to work, stick to one specific type for 34 weeks to evaluate its effectiveness before switching.

Alternatively, try including a variety of probiotic foods in your diet.

Fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha, kefir, natto, tempeh, and sauerkraut are all rich in beneficial bacteria, as well as plenty of other important nutrients.

summary

Certain strains of probiotics may be more effective than others at treating constipation. Aside from taking supplements, you can eat fermented foods to increase your probiotic intake.

Garden Of Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics

If you’re looking for more probiotic supplements that target women’s needs, look no further than Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics. This affordable OTC supplement contains a whopping 50 billion CFUs and a healthy blend of probiotic strains.

What Does Garden of Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics Do?

Like the previous women-focused probiotic, this one has a multi-faceted approach. It does everything you would expect, like address gut problems. But, it also promotes better vaginal and urinary health.

Ingredients

• Affordably priced

Who Can Benefit from Garden of Life Doctor Formulated Probiotics?

This supplement is a fantastic daily probiotic supplement for women. It’s rich in microbes and only requires a single capsule to maintain gut balance.

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Which Probiotic Should You Choose For Ibs

Although adding probiotics into your diet has shown promising results, there are many different kinds to consider. Just as your own body has its own specific needs, so does each type of probiotic have its unique benefits.

It is important to identify the correct strain for your needs. To help you decide which probiotic to use, look up the digestive issue that you want to treat and make your choice according to whichever can help with that condition.

Free Of Artificial And Harmful Ingredients

Avoid any supplement that contains harmful ingredients like preservatives, binders, chemicals, fillers, artificial colors, flavors and blenders. Prefer supplements that have naturally extracted probiotics. If you are allergic to some ingredients then make sure the product you choose doesnt contain any of them.

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Best Probiotics For Ibs Constipation

Probiotics can be consumed in the form of dietary supplements which may include a single probiotic strain or multiple probiotic strains.

Increasing your intake of probiotics can help with certain conditions such as urinary tract infections, yeast infections, lactose intolerance, gum disease, sepsis, eczema, upper respiratory infections, inflammatory bowel disease , and irritable bowel syndrome .

As mentioned earlier, IBS-C is one of the sub-types for IBS. People suffering from IBS-C mainly experience recurring constipation which is often accompanied by:

• Gas or bloating
• Hard, painful, or uncomfortable bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete bowel movement
• Hemorrhoids

IBS-C is different from chronic functional constipation because people with IBS-C often undergo cramping and abdominal pain. On the other hand, those who have chronic constipation usually do not experience pain.

Generally, most of these symptoms are reduced or abolished with regular consumption of probiotics. For best results, it is recommended that probiotic products must have at least 1 billion colony-forming units .

For now, let us discuss the best probiotics for IBS constipation, and here they are in no particular order:

Backed with over 20 years of research, this popular probiotic supplement is a favorite of gastroenterologists which they recommend twice as much as any other brand. It also has high consumer ratings for effectiveness.

Is Your Budget Enough To Purchase The Otc Probiotic For Constipation

This question might sound obvious, but many people tend to forget about their savings while they focus on buying items that might not even fit their budgets. The higher quality product may cost more money, but it will be worth it for the value it brings you over time, often without even having to repair or replace that which brings you joy daily.

You should also figure out what other costs come with that purchase because sometimes there are hidden costs before you purchase otc probiotic for constipation. If budget matters, deciding beforehand what size you want according to your means or needs can save you money down the road, if not right away.

Read Also: Can Prebiotics And Probiotics Help You Lose Weight

Your Baby Is In Daycare And You Want To Decrease Their Chance Of Getting Sick

Babies and toddlers who are around other kids in a daycare setting tend to get sick more frequently than children who stay at home. If you want to decrease your babys chances of getting sick, Kaufmann says probiotics may help, citing a study that found a decrease in incidence of rhinopharyngitis for children in daycare when they drank a fermented yogurt drinkProdeus A, Niborski V, Schrezenmeir J, Gorelov A, Shcherbina A, Rumyantsev A. Fermented Milk Consumption and Common Infections in Children Attending Day-Care Centers: A Randomized Trial. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2016 63:534-543. .

Considerations When Taking Probiotics For Constipation

If youre considering taking probiotics to increase stool frequency, its also helpful to evaluate any and all other factors that might be contributing to the problem.

Is there anything else you can do to influence your digestive health along with taking probiotics? If medically appropriate, see if you can:

• Up your water intake.
• Consume more soluble fiber that will act as prebiotics for your good bacteria.
• Increase your activity level.
• Ask your doctor if any medications youre taking can be contributing to constipation and if there is an alternative.

While probiotics are safe for an overwhelming majority of people, those who are dealing with critical health conditions should consult a probiotic-literate healthcare professional for medical advice.

Finally, sometimes people feel temporary side effects when they begin taking a probiotic supplement. Gas, bloating, and general stomach upset can occur as the gut microbiota rebalances.

This generally subsides after a few days but if it doesnt, here are a few tips:

• While its best to take probiotics on an empty stomach, you could try taking your supplement with food while your body adjusts.
• Reduce the amount youre taking and gradually increase the dose.
• Make sure there are no ingredients in the supplement you might be allergic to, like gluten or dairy.
• Consider trying a product that contains different strains of bacteria.

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How To Choose A Probiotic

There are a few key factors to keep in mind when shopping for a probiotic supplement:

• Intended use. Probiotics are designed to address many health concerns. For example, some are specifically formulated to support digestive health, immune function, or reproductive health.
• CFU count. The number of colony-forming units in a probiotic supplement refers to the amount of live bacteria it contains. Most supplements provide 110 billion CFU per serving, though this can vary.
• Storage needs. Most probiotics are shelf-stable and can be stored at room temperature, while others require refrigeration because they are more sensitive to heat and moisture.
• Third-party testing. Selecting a probiotic that has been tested by an independent lab or certified by a third-party organization can help verify its safety, quality, and strength.
• Dietary restrictions. Some products may be certified gluten-free or vegan, which is a key consideration for those with strict dietary needs.

Remember that no two microbiomes are the same and probiotics may affect people differently. For this reason, it could take some trial and error to find a supplement that works for you.

A healthcare professional can offer personalized recommendations based on your needs to help you find a product thats right for you.

Who May Not Benefit From Probiotic Supplements

There is a lot we dont know about how probiotic supplementation affects those with gastrointestinal disorders. For many conditions, it is unclear if probiotics might be harmful or exacerbate symptoms. Based on current research, probiotic supplementation may not be beneficial as a treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome in all ages or for acute gastroenteritis in children.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder impacting 20% of children and adults in North America with symptoms that include abdominal pain or discomfort, changes in bowel habits, and changes in stool appearance and form. Although the cause of IBS is still unknown, the gut microbiome plays a role in the physiological symptoms. Current research shows that probiotic supplementation likely does not provide significant relief for those with IBS.

As time goes on, more research will be done to determine the connection between the microbiome and IBS in hopes of finding a cure and/or relief from symptoms, and that may include the use of probiotics.

Acute gastroenteritis in children

Acute gastroenteritis is a common short-term illness. Although there are many studies testing probiotic use for acute gastroenteritis in children, the results are conflicting. One group of researchers from China recommends using the probiotic strains Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus rhamnosus either in combination or alone in otherwise healthy children to help with symptoms.

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How Do Probiotics Help With Constipation

Although the exact mechanisms have not yet been fully established 7, several suggested mechanisms by which probiotics can alleviate constipation include:

• Production of SCFAs . SCFAs are produced as a result of the bacterial fermentation of carbohydrates in the gut by both Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli 8. SCFAs are suggested to enhance colonic motility by stimulating neural receptors in the gut wall smooth muscle causing peristalsis. They have also been suggested to increase serotonin concentration in the colon which is an excitatory neurotransmitter and also can stimulate peristalsis 7.
• due to increased production of lactic acid and SCFAs by both Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria species. Increased acidity of the gut luminal contents stimulates peristalsis and reduces colonic transit time 9.
• Increased bile salt metabolism by strains of both Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli in the gut stimulates peristalsis as there is an increased level of deconjugated bile salts which can stimulate colonic motility10.

There are many possible triggers for constipation, and as a result there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution, fortunately though, there is good evidence to show that probiotics can be effective. It is important to be aware that each probiotic strain is different from the next. To meet your needs, it is always recommended that you select a strain that has been clinically trialled with a proven health benefit.