How To Choose The Best Probiotics For Bloating
Probiotics usually come in a bottle and can be taken once a day with a glass of water. However, the dose per capsule or serving may vary depending on the specific probiotic supplement that you choose.
Some probiotics are high potency, meaning they have more active live cultures than other brands. Other formulas contain different strains of probiotics that work better with certain symptoms, like bloating.
If you are wondering how to choose the best probiotics for bloating, it is important to read the label carefully and take your time researching different brands. Probiotics can be found in many grocery stores or online through retailers like the 10 best probiotics for bloating we featured in this article.
Physicians Choice Womens Probiotic
Physicians Choice makes a heavy-hitting 50 billion CFU womens probiotic supplement that focuses mostly on specific strains of Lactobacillus bacteria. Its a good option for a general-purpose probiotic thats tailored for women, and its great to see Physicians Choice specifying the exact strain of each type of bacteria used in making the supplement.
They Can Increase Infection Risk For Some
Probiotics are safe for the vast majority of the population, but may not be the best fit for everyone.
In rare cases, the bacteria or yeasts found in probiotics can enter the bloodstream and cause infections in susceptible individuals .
Those at greatest risk for infection from probiotics include people with suppressed immune systems, prolonged hospitalizations, venous catheters or those who have undergone recent surgeries .
However, the risk of developing an infection is very low, and no serious infections have been reported in clinical studies of the general population.
It is estimated that only about one in one million people who take probiotics containing Lactobacilli bacteria will develop an infection. The risk is even smaller for yeast-based probiotics, with only about one in 5.6 million users getting infected .
When infections do occur, they typically respond well to traditional antibiotics or antifungals. However, in rare cases, deaths have occurred .
Research also suggests that people with severe acute pancreatitis should not take probiotics, as this may increase the risk of death .
Summary
People with compromised immune systems, venous catheters, recent surgery, acute pancreatitis or prolonged hospitalizations should avoid taking probiotics.
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Physicians Choice 60 Billion Cfu Review
Not a lot of people pay attention to their gut health, which is arguably very important as it pertains to your digestion. According to the brand, Humans rely on microorganisms such as probiotics to keep our body healthy and functioning properly, but diet and other factors can deplete our healthy bacteria. The Physicians Choice 60 Billion CFU helps keep your digestive system in shape, as it provides the immune system with protection and is shown to have an impact on storage and expenditure of energy.
ThePhysicians Choice 60 Billion CFU can also help with issues with diarrhea, IBS, ulcerative colitis, Crohns disease, and H. pylori. These supplements are acid-resistant and delayed-release, which means that they can survive the harsh conditions in your stomach. Its slowed down response buys time for the probiotics to reach the intestines.
Also, their supplements are packaged in patented, shelf-stable bottles, which protect the probiotics from coming into contact with oxygen and sunlight that ultimately decreases their shelf life. A 30 capsule bottle of the Physicians Choice 60 Billion CFU costs a cool $14.37.
Digestive Advantage Daily Probiotics
Image courtesy Schiff
Digestive Advantage’s formula is a daily supplement that contains 14 probiotics and prebiotics ingredients. It increases your bodys ability to absorb vital nutrients while destroying bad bacteria in the gut.
It reduces bloating, diarrhea, cramping, and gas caused by digestive issues like IBS and food allergies.
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You May Experience Less Constipation
According to Morgyn Clair, RD, a registered dietitian nutritionist with Sprint Kitchen, one of the top benefits of taking probiotics is that they help your body break down and metabolize nutrients in the intestines more efficiently. As a result, they may promote regular bowel movements and reduce unpleasant GI problems like constipation and diarrhea. Specifically, Dr. Axe says the species of Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium tend to be most helpful in this regard.
2017 research suggested that probiotic supplements can help cure antibiotic-associated diarrhea, while another study revealed that probiotics containing Bifidobacterium slowed “gut transit time,” thus increasing participants’ number of weekly bowel movements while softening stools, making them easier to pass.
What Kind Of Probiotic Should A Man Take
There are many different types of probiotics available on the market. When choosing a probiotic, it is important to consider the species and strain of bacteria in the supplement.
Some of the most popular probiotic strains for men include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
It is also important to consider the CFU, or colony-forming units, of the probiotic. This is a measure of how many live bacteria are in each capsule. A higher CFU means more live bacteria and a greater chance of experiencing the benefits of probiotics.
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Buying Guide For Best Mens Probiotics
Probiotics are bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for you, especially your digestive system. The bacteria in your body outnumber your cells ten to one, and mostly reside in your gut. Much of this bacteria is harmless, but unwanted germs can develop from time to time, and what many dont realize is that gut health directly correlates with overall health.
To fend off infection or disease, ingesting probiotics through food or a supplement helps promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Getting adequate levels of healthy bacteria through foods can be difficult, so thats why probiotic supplements are often the best method to incorporate them easily into your diet.
For men, taking probiotic supplements can help maintain good cholesterol, as well as keep blood pressure low. Theyre also proven to have an effect in supporting optimal testosterone levels. Check out our favorite probiotics for men, and read on to learn more about what they can do for you.
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You Might Have More Energy
Not only might your mood get a lift from taking probiotics, but Dr. Axe notes that you may also find you have increased energy and less fatigue.
“Probiotics play a role in neurotransmitter production, including serotonin, which has mood-boosting and calming/sleep-promoting effects,” he explains. “Some also contribute to cognitive health by helping to facilitate a healthy inflammation response and supporting nutrient absorption, which helps fuel normal brain activity.”
Research has revealed that chronic fatigue syndrome is linked to an imbalance in the microbiomewhich can cause “leaky gut syndrome.” Basically, this means that bacteria enter the blood, triggering an immune response. Fortunately, research has also proven that taking probiotics may be useful for restoring balance to the microbiome and thus, alleviating fatigue and other symptoms.
You can also get a good amount of probiotics in your diet when you incorporate these 14 Probiotic Foods for a Healthy Gut into your meals!
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Why Do Men Need Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are found in your gut. These bacteria are important for many aspects of your health, including digestion, immunity, and brain function. Probiotics have been shown to improve digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome , Crohns disease, and ulcerative colitis.
They can also boost your immune system, making you less likely to get sick. Probiotics have even been linked to better brain function and mental health. So, as you can see, there are many good reasons for men to take probiotics.
Pb8 Probiotic Side Effects
In addition to other challenges that are experienced by the use of other probiotics, this probiotic also has a challenge in the management of weight loss. It is noted that the likely hood of increase weight-loss is slim and therefore more effort may be needed to retain the same rate that may have been established before their use. Though not medically proven, some users indicate that it causes light head or dizziness spells especially when taken on an empty stomach. Read more about Pb8 user rating and reviews: benefits, more side effects and dosage
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Is It Safe To Take Probiotics During Pregnancy
Most experts say that it is perfectly fine to take probiotics during pregnancy because your baby gets their first dose of healthy bacteria from you when they are born through breast milk or vaginal delivery.
Your gut health will be directly related to how well your own digestive system and immune system are operating, which means that you need to take care of yourself during pregnancy.
Could You Benefit From A Probiotic Supplement
While there are several potential benefits of probiotics, its important to get educated before you increase your probiotic intake.
Lactobacillus Bifidobacterium.
When you go to the grocery store, youre likely to see a number of items containing probiotics, these friendly microorganisms that are most commonly bacteria and sometimes a type of yeast.
And thanks to their popularity, you can find everything from probiotic smoothies, chocolate, and granola bars to probiotic supplements and powders.
Though theyve become more prominent over the last two decades, Probiotics have actually been consumed by humans in one form or another for more than 100 years, says Susan Lucak, MD, a gastroenterologist in New York City and a special lecturer at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University.
The two most common types of probiotics found on the market are species of good bacteria called Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. While their manufacturers claim that probiotics have a number of overall and digestive health benefits, supplement dosing and the included strains vary widely, and not everyone needs one.
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Should I Take Probiotics For Bloating Every Day
Probiotic supplements can be taken daily as long as your doctor recommends them. However, if you find that the side effects are too much for you to handle, take a break from probiotics and talk to your doctor about what you can do next.
Some people with IBS find that 30 consecutive days of taking probiotics works best for them before they need to give their body a break.
If you are looking for how to take probiotics, just follow the dosage instructions on the label and continue taking as long as your doctor recommends.
Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth
The small and large intestines usually contain different types of bacteria. SIBO occurs when bacteria from the large intestine start growing in the small intestine.
The large intestine predominantly contains anaerobic bacteria, which do not require oxygen and live by fermenting indigestible carbohydrates from plant-based foods as they pass through the gut.
Symptoms of SIBO are similar to those of IBS, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea. SIBO can also cause brain fogginess and short-term memory problems.
Not everyone with IBS has SIBO, but the overgrowth is more common in people with IBS. SIBO also frequently develops in older females.
Experts do not fully understand what causes the overgrowth, but it may result from reduced gut motility, which slows the passage of food through the gut. This can cause fermentable carbohydrates to remain in the small intestine for longer.
Results of a indicate a possible link between SIBO and probiotic supplementation in people with brain fogginess. The researchers found that symptoms improved when participants stopped taking probiotics and started taking antibiotics.
Anyone with SIBO symptoms should consult a doctor.
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Physicians Choice Probiotics: Are They Safe
There are a few recognized negative effects associated with Physicians Choice. Bloating and stomach distress are the most typical adverse effects. When using a probiotic pill for the first time, these two adverse effects are frequent. They should go away after youve gotten into the habit of taking the mix on a daily basis. A rash was observed by a few clients in rare situations.
How To Find The Right Probiotic Dose
If youre most interested in taking a probiotic supplement for overall gut health,* I suggest starting with at least 30 billion CFUs. Take your chosen probiotic on an empty stomach once or twice a day for at least three months. After that time, reassess and decide if the benefits you achieved warrant continuing or maintaining over the long-term.
If you have chronic GI concerns, I strongly suggest working with a functional medicine doctor or other qualified health care professional to partner with you and personalize your probiotic approach.
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Probiotics Can Help Reduce Symptoms Of Certain Digestive Disorders
Over one million people in the US suffer from inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease .
Certain types of probiotics from the Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains have improved symptoms in people with mild ulcerative colitis .
Surprisingly, one study found that supplementing with the probiotic E. coli Nissle was just as effective as drugs in maintaining remission in people with ulcerative colitis (
31 ).
Nevertheless, probiotics may have benefits for other bowel disorders. Early research suggests they may help with symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome .
They have also been shown to reduce the risk of severe necrotizing enterocolitis by 50%. This is a fatal bowel condition that occurs in premature infants .
Bottom Line:
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Raw Probiotic Side Effects
With the higher number of colony forming units provided by raw probiotics, the most common side effect is reported or identified is an over dosage challenge, which in itself is uncommon. The benefits seem to outweigh the side effects, which, you are medically fit and have no gut challenges such as an intestinal injury the chances of discomfort or unexpected reaction are highly minimized.
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Positive Side Effects Of Probiotics
People take probiotics because they want to experience some positive benefit or outcome.
It’s important to focus on these well documented and very helpful benefits.
Realistically, if you are using high-quality probiotics the chance that you will experience negative side effects is very low.
Below you will find a list of the most common positive side effects that are seen while taking probiotics and why you may experience them:
Certain species of probiotics such as bifidobacterium tend to provide many of the benefits listed above.
To get these benefits you will want to make sure that you use a high-quality probiotic that contains multiple species and strains at a high enough CFU count.
You can find more information on how to pick out the best probiotic for your body here.
Small Intestine Bacterial Growth
Bacteria in the small and large intestines are distinct. Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth happens when bacteria from the large intestine colonize the small intestine.
The large intestine is mostly populated by anaerobic bacteria, which do not require oxygen to survive. Instead, they live on digesting indigestible carbohydrates from plant-based food as they move through the gut.
SIBO symptoms include gas, bloating, and diarrhea, which are similar to IBS symptoms. It can also result in brain fog and short-term memory issues. SIBO doesnt affect everyone who has IBS, although it is more common in those who have the condition.
Its also common in older women. When individuals stopped taking probiotics and began taking antibiotics, their symptoms improved. Anyone experiencing SIBO symptoms should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.
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How To Use Adult Probiotic
Follow all directions on the product package. Refer to the label directions for your specific product to see if the dose should be swallowed whole, chewed, sprinkled onto food or mixed with liquid. If you are using the liquid form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Some probiotic products may contain live bacteria . Antibiotics may prevent these products from working well. Take any product containing live bacteria at least 2 to 3 hours before or after taking antibiotics. Follow the directions for your specific product.
If you are taking this product for diarrhea due to antibiotics, do not use it if you have a high fever or for more than 2 days, unless directed by your doctor. You may have a serious problem that requires medical treatment.
If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
Then He Said In My 25 Years In Nutrition Ive Never Heard Of Side Effects With Probiotics
Ronda told him, Well, it sure happened to me!
Rondas been doing great ever since the whole incident and is elated to be herself again. But she learned a hard lesson. Harmless probiotics deserve respect for their power and impact on the human system.
From now on, shell ALWAYS follow directions when it comes to over-the-counter remedies. And especially probiotics!
The good news is that if probiotics can cause this much change in someone whos healthy, they can also make a significant difference in anyone whos not.
Along with improving health in your stomach and intestines, as well as reducing inflammation and infection throughout your body, they can also relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.
But be aware, theyre not to be taken lightly. Experts say that since each individual is unique, there is no one-size-fits-all for probiotic supplementation.
Remember: In general terms, up to 10 billion CFUs daily. Start gently. Watch for out-of-the-ordinary symptoms. A specific strain may not be right for you, or a specific combination. Take several days or a couple weeks to test the effects of partial doses, raising the dose a little each day as long as you have no negative symptoms. Include your doctor in the process.
This story isnt to scare you away from using a preparation that can help you become stronger and more resilient. But rather to alert you to possible risks if you use probiotics without supervision or awareness of potential side effects.
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