Why Your Gut Bacteria Matters
Intestinal bacteria play a prominent role in overall health. Along with protecting you from harmful bacteria and supporting digestion, studies show that good gut bacteria may reduce obesity, improve depression, and even play a role in immune function. So it’s only logical that the foods and supplements you put into your body can significantly impact your gut’s bacterial makeup and subsequent well-being.
When it comes to preserving your gut health, what you don’t eat is just as important as what you do. In general, a high-fat, high-sugar diet can contribute to insulin resistance and other unfavorable conditions. Feeding the bad bacteria in your gut can allow them to grow and colonize more easily. On the other hand, consuming a diet rich in vegetables, grains, and natural probiotics may help preserve digestive health.
Hear Our Experts Take
Physicians Choice Probiotics contain 10 different strains, including six different Lactobacillus strains and four Bifidobacterium strains. Probiotics containing multiple strains of bacteria are beneficial, however an even higher quality probiotic might also contain Streptococcus thermophilus or Saccharomyces boulardii.
This probiotic contains 60 billion CFUs at the time of manufacturing, which is more than comparable brands. Consumers who are newer to using probiotics may wish to start with fewer CFUs to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or irritability that may occur as your gut adjusts to the bacteria.
Physicians Choice Probiotics are dairy-free, without binders, soy, gluten, or any of the most common allergens. Their product is also third Party tested for safety and quality.
Unique to Physicians Choice Probiotic is the prebiotic blend that accompanies it. The blend helps to support the good bacteria and serves as a better filler than cheap alternatives. Additionally, the probiotic is bottled in a shelf-stable bottle to help preserve the bacteria cultures. This helps ensure youre receiving the maximum CFUs possible.
Physicians Choice Probiotic rates highly for the diversity in bacterial strains, the number of CFUs, and for being formulated without binders. As a Registered Dietitian, I would feel comfortable recommending this supplement to my clients.
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.
Recommended Reading: Where To Buy Refrigerated Probiotics
Read Also: Best Female Probiotic For Bv
Organic Prebiotic Fiber Blend
Prebiotic fiber provides food for probiotic organisms, creating a more effective synbiotic product once it reaches the small intestine. Very few probiotic products on the market contain prebiotic ingredients, reducing the efficacy and benefits that are sought from a probiotic supplement4*.
Organic Jerusalem Artichoke Root & Organic Chicory Root are both good sources of inulin, a natural plant-based source of indigestible fiber that is consumed by the microorganisms in your digestive tract. These prebiotic ingredients have been shown to enrich the microbiome and improve bowel function, along with immunosupportive benefits. 5*
Organic Acacia Senegal: An additional source of prebiotic fiber that has also been studied in-vitro for its ability to support tight-junctions between intestinal epithelial cells, leading to a more robust gut barrier. As a result, the body is better able to block harmful bacteria from entering your bloodstream and causing inflammation6*.
1. Wilkins T, Sequoia J. Probiotics for Gastrointestinal Conditions: A Summary of the Evidence. American Family Physician. 2017 96:170-178.
2. Krajmalnik-Brown R, Ilhan Z, Kang, D, DiBaise JK. Effects of Gut Microbes on Nutrient Absorption and Energy Regulation. Nutr Clin Pract. 2012 27:201-214.
3. Galdeano CM, Cazorla SI, Lemme Dumit JM, et al. Beneficial Effects of Probiotic Consumption on the Immune System. Ann Nutr Metab. 2019 74:115-124.
What Is 60 Billion Probiotics Return Policy
Physicians Choicehas a 60-day return policythat offers you the option to try out a supplement without being stuck with it. If youve passed the 60-day deadline, you can only return your supplement if its unopened.
If you are unhappy with what youve bought, you simply have to contact their customer service team through phone at 877-395-2707, or email them at .
Recommended Reading: Can I Use My Hsa For Probiotics
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.
A Quick Guide To Prebiotics Probiotics And Postbiotics
By now, you’ve probably heard about the many benefits associated with probiotics. Live microorganisms, probiotics are believed to alter the microflora in your gut, thereby aiding in digestion and promoting overall wellness. Although probiotic consumption is on the risethe number of probiotic-using adults quadrupled between 2007 and 2012you might be less familiar with prebiotics and postbiotics.
While probiotics refer to food or supplements containing viable microorganisms, prebiotics stimulate the growth and activity of those probiotic bacteria. In this way, prebiotics can improve and restore the bacterial balance of the microbiome. Finally, postbiotics are non-living bacterial or metabolic products that probiotic microorganisms produce.
Collectively, these elements can help you maintain a healthy microbiome while promoting the balance of the nearly 1,000 species of bacteria residing in your gut. Keep reading to learn about prebiotics versus probiotics versus postbiotics, and discover how they may be able to impact your health for the better.
Read Also: Probiotics What Are They For
Sacrificing Quality For Price
Selecting the cheapest rather than the best quality can potentially do you more harm than good. If brands dont identify specific strains and their amounts in each dose, you could end up with an ineffective or potentially harmful supplement.
Additionally, an effective probiotic depends on the survival of the micro-organisms. They are delicate and must survive numerous obstacles before they reach you, like manufacturing and packaging. If the micro-organisms start to deplete during that process, the supplement is going to be less effective. Therefore, you need to choose a high-quality probiotic that can survive that process.
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.
You May Like: Is Greek Yogurt High In Probiotics
You May Like: How Many Billion Probiotics Do I Need
Overview Of 60 Billion Probiotic
60 Billion Probiotic is created by Physicians Choice, a health and wellness brand with a focused, clear mission and a transparent culture. Their products are mainly health supplements, created with research, sustainability, and purity in mind.
Their mission of providing safe and high-quality supplements relies on using clean ingredients backed by science and facts to provide their customers with the best supplements on the market.
The company wants everyone to live a healthy life, with access to the highest quality supplements. They are centered around health and well-being and ensure that their employees and their products follow this goal.
With that inspiring dedication in mind, here are a few main highlights of the product and brand:
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.
Read Also: Best Probiotic For Nursing Moms
Surviving The Stomach: The Probiotic Journey
Since probiotics must make it through the stomach to be effective3 , the beneficial properties of a probiotic product depend on its survival in a harsh, acidic environment. Physicians Choice delayed-release capsules are acid-resistant, offering a critical layer of protection to keep the probiotic organisms viable on their journey to the intestines4*.
*THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.
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.
Also Check: What Is A Spore Based Probiotic
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.
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.
Read Also: Do Probiotics Cause Frequent Urination
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
Recommended Reading: How Do I Know What Probiotic To Take
What Are The Supplement Facts Of 60 Billion Probiotic
60 Billion Probiotic has a serving size of one capsule, with 30 servings per container. It contains a variety of ingredients, including 220mg of a probiotic blend featuring 10 different strains, with 60 billion CFU.
Physicians Choice also uses 150mg of a prebiotic blend for a total of 150 mg. This blend is made up of 50mg each of organic Jerusalem artichoke root, organic acacia senegal, and organic chicory root.
Also Check: Best Probiotic For Ibs Mixed
Getting Through Stomach Acidity
To effectively provide you with the aforementioned benefits, the strains need to reach the gut, but thats challenging even for robust strains, so having 60 billion microorganisms represented by 10 types of strains increases the chances of that happening.
Though, you can also increase those chances by taking your probiotic supplement in the morning with or just after breakfast because your stomach acid is at its lowest level in the morning.
Keep in mind that stomach acid actually protects you against pathogens as it helps kill the harmful bacteria present in food and water you ingest. While it protects you from food-borne diseases, it can also get rid of helpful bacteria attempting to go from the stomach to your gut.
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.
You May Like: Probiotic With Lipase Amylase And Bromelain
Analysis Of 4k+ Reviews For Probiotics 60 Billion Cfu
BestViewsReviews analyzed 271,157 reviews for 299 products in the Probiotic Nutritional Supplements category.
We analyzed a total of 4,880 reviews for this product out of which, 0 reviews were received in the last 6 months.
The analysis indicates that around 100% reviews were positive while around 0% of reviews had negative sentiment.
Physicians Choice Probiotic Ingredients
As we have mentioned briefly, Physicians Choice probiotic supplement contains a probiotic blend with 10 different strains of bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
The 10 different strains of bacteria are:
L. Casey is safe and potentially helpful in regulating the digestive system.
Existing evidence shows that drinking probiotic drinks containing Lactobacillus casei a beneficial adjunctive therapy for people with chronic constipation.
A trial in 2007 studied a probiotic drink containing L. casei, L. bulgaricus, and S. thermophiles, and the researchers concluded it may reduce the incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and C. difficile-associated diarrhea.
Later in 2014, a clinical trial found that L. casei supplements can help ease symptoms and improve inflammatory cytokines in women with rheumatoid arthritis.
L. acidophilus is another strain present in Physicians Choice probiotic supplement, but its not exclusive to this supplement, which means you can find it in many others.
Researchers have extensively studied this probiotic, and the results show it may provide several health benefits.
There is evidence suggesting that L. acidophilus can help reduce cholesterol levels more effectively than other types of probiotics. However, the evidence is mixed, and its difficult to determine whether this benefit comes from consuming this probiotic on its own, or with other probiotics.
Still, more research is required to confirm those results.
Don’t Miss: What Is The Best Time To Take Probiotic Supplements
