Top 11 Best Probiotics for Men

Probiotics are used to manage various symptoms and conditions. They are the most popular dietary supplements, and sales keep skyrocketing due to their numerous benefits. If you have noticed some abdominal problems or recently used antibiotics, you may need to use the best probiotics for men.

In the following guide, we discuss some recommended options that may interest you.

What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that are expected to impact health positively when applied to the body or when consumed. Our bodies have two kinds of bacteria, the good ones and the bad ones. Probiotics are made of only good bacteria to keep our bodies working well.

Although you may think of bacteria as harmful germs, many are beneficial. Some bacteria produce vitamins, destroy disease-causing cells, and others help in food digestion.

Probiotics are found in yogurt, dietary supplements, fermented foods, and beauty products. Many of the microorganisms found in products are the same as the ones that live naturally in our bodies.

Probiotics keep the gut healthy by curbing the growth of bad bacteria. They are part of a larger picture concerning your body and bacteria, known as the microbiome. This microbiome is a diverse community of microorganisms.

Top 3 Best Probiotics for Men

1. Luma Nutrition Probiotics 60 Billion CFU with Prebiotics
2. Ritual Synbiotic+
3. Biotics 8

Luma Nutrition Probiotics 60 Billion CFU with Prebiotics is a premium dietary supplement designed to support digestive health for both men and women. This powerful probiotic blend is carefully formulated to provide 60 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per capsule, ensuring a potent dose of beneficial bacteria to promote a balanced gut microbiome.

One of the standout features of Luma Nutrition Probiotics is its inclusivity, as it is suitable for both women and men. This gender-neutral formulation recognizes that everyone can benefit from a healthy gut, regardless of gender. Whether you're looking to improve your digestion, boost your immune system, or simply maintain overall well-being, these probiotics are tailored to meet your needs.

Digestive health is a crucial aspect of overall wellness, and Luma Nutrition Probiotics 60 Billion CFU with Prebiotics aims to address this by promoting a balanced gut flora. A healthy gut microbiome can contribute to smoother digestion, reduced bloating, and improved nutrient absorption. These 60 capsules are a convenient way to incorporate this health-boosting supplement into your daily routine.

In summary, Luma Nutrition Probiotics 60 Billion CFU with Prebiotics is a well-rounded dietary supplement suitable for both men and women. Its high CFU count, inclusion of prebiotics, and focus on digestive health make it a valuable addition to anyone's wellness regimen. Whether you're looking to maintain gut balance or support specific health goals, these probiotics offer a convenient and effective solution.

Pros

• Helps improve digestion by promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
• The addition of prebiotics in this supplement enhances the effectiveness of the probiotics by providing nourishment to support their growth and colonization in the gut.
• Comes in easy-to-take capsules
• Designed for both men and women

Cons

• Can be relatively expensive
• While the lack of refrigeration requirement can be seen as a pro for convenience, some consumers may prefer probiotics that require refrigeration
• Some individuals may experience initial side effects when starting probiotics, such as mild digestive discomfort, gas, or bloating.

We highly recommend Ritual Synbiotic+ for those seeking optimal gut health and overall well-being. This advanced synbiotic formula is meticulously crafted to support your digestive system, boost immunity, and promote a balanced microbiome, helping you feel your best every day.

Pros

• It combines prebiotics, probiotics, and a postbiotic to provide comprehensive gut support.
• It contains a diverse blend of well-researched probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, along with prebiotic fibers to nourish beneficial bacteria.
• It helps maintain a healthy gut flora, which can alleviate digestive discomfort, reduce bloating, and enhance nutrient absorption.
• It aids in fortifying your body's defense mechanisms, supporting immune health .

Cons

• As with any supplement, results may vary from person to person.
• It may take several weeks for the full benefits of Ritual Synbiotic+ to become apparent.

We have personally incorporated Ritual Synbiotic+ into our daily wellness routine and have experienced noticeable improvements in our digestive comfort and overall vitality. The combination of carefully selected probiotic strains and prebiotic fibers make it a standout choice for those aiming to prioritize their gut health. We also appreciate Ritual's commitment to transparency and quality, with each batch rigorously tested for purity and potency. If you're looking to fortify your gut, support your immune system, and elevate your overall well-being, we highly recommend Ritual Synbiotic+ as a trusted ally on your health journey.

Bauer Nutrition's Biotics 8 is a revolutionary probiotic blend that has taken the health world by storm. Crafted with precision and backed by scientific prowess, Biotics 8 transcends ordinary probiotics. With an exceptional blend of eight powerful strains, this probiotic offers a holistic approach to combat gastrointestinal issues commonly faced by men.

From occasional constipation to pesky bloating, Biotics 8 unveils a new era of relief and vitality. A staggering 20 billion CFUs form an unstoppable army of beneficial bacteria, establishing a fortress of balance within the gut. Moreover, the ingenious inclusion of organic prebiotics provides nourishment, elevating the probiotic strains to uncharted heights.

Pros

• Effective relief from gastrointestinal issues in men
• Inclusion of organic prebiotics for enhanced probiotic growth
• Holistic approach to support overall well-being

Cons

• Higher CFU count may not be suitable for everyone
• It's pricey.

Unlock optimal gut health with Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic. This powerhouse supplement stands out as the pinnacle for men seeking digestive wellness. Packed with 60 billion soil-based organisms (SBOs), it's a game-changer.

Pros

• Potent SBO Blend: Boasting a robust mix of soil-based organisms, this probiotic offers a diverse range crucial for gut balance.
• Digestive Mastery: Elevate your digestive health with a formula designed to tackle discomfort and promote overall well-being.
• Immune Fortification: The SBOs in Ultra Probiotic contribute to a fortified immune system, providing resilience against daily challenges.

Cons

• Initial Adjustment: Some users may experience mild adjustments as their gut acclimates to the potent SBO blend.
• Capsule Size: Individuals with difficulty swallowing may find the capsule size slightly challenging.
• Gradual Results: Patience is key; noticeable improvements may take some time.

Our firsthand experience with Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic speaks volumes. We've witnessed improved digestive health, reduced discomfort, and heightened overall well-being. Gluten-free and dairy-free, it accommodates various dietary needs.

This supplement goes beyond, being third-party tested for safety and efficacy. Seamlessly integrate it into your routine, with or without food. For optimal results, we recommend a daily intake of two capsules.

Pair it with Ultra Probiotic's companion supplements for a comprehensive approach. The synergy between products enhances the growth of beneficial bacteria, fostering a thriving gut environment.

In conclusion, if you're navigating the landscape of probiotics for men, Ultra Probiotic - 60B SBO Probiotic is your steadfast companion. Revolutionize your gut health, embrace vitality, and redefine your well-being with this exceptional probiotic solution.

Unlock optimal gut health with Naturenetics Probiotics 30 Billion CFU Guaranteed—the pinnacle of probiotic excellence for men. Harnessing the power of 30 billion live cultures per capsule, this probiotic powerhouse is meticulously crafted to elevate your digestive well-being.

Pros

• Naturenetics Probiotics packs a punch with 30 billion CFUs, ensuring a robust and effective dose of beneficial bacteria for your gut.
• This supplement boasts a diverse array of probiotic strains, contributing to a balanced microbiome and enhancing overall gut function.
• Experience relief from digestive discomfort as Naturenetics supports the delicate balance of your intestinal flora, promoting smoother digestion.
• Beyond the gut, these probiotics fortify your immune system, helping you stay resilient against common ailments and promoting overall wellness.

Cons

• Some individuals may experience mild adjustments as their bodies adapt to the introduction of new probiotic strains. These can include temporary changes in bowel habits.
• Results may vary from person to person, and the timeframe for noticeable improvements may differ based on individual health and lifestyle factors.

Having personally incorporated Naturenetics Probiotics into our routine, we can attest to its efficacy. This probiotic gem stands out for its reliability, offering a convenient solution for those seeking digestive balance without the need for refrigeration. Crafted with precision, each capsule ensures maximum potency.

Easy to integrate into daily life, we recommend taking one capsule daily for optimal results. Naturenetics Probiotics complements your proactive approach to health, providing the support your digestive system craves. Elevate your well-being with Naturenetics—the trusted choice for men seeking top-tier probiotic supplementation.

Bio-Kult is one of the best probiotics for men, and it contains 14 probiotic strains. This ensures that it complements the existing gut flora that is naturally present in the digestive system. Some probiotic strains present include Bacillus subtillis, Lactobacillus cidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, and 11 other strains.

Each capsule contains at least 2 billion microorganisms, and Bio-Kult assures buyers that the bacteria count is viable till the end of the product's shelf life. This means that as among the best probiotic supplements, it will do its job to the end.

The capsules are microencapsulated and freeze-dried to protect them from stomach acid. This feature also allows it to be safely stored at room temperature.

Although Bio-Kult is not suitable for people with severe milk allergies, it is safe for those with lactose intolerance. This probiotic supplement is non-GMO and safe for all, including men.

Pros

• Suitable for all, regardless of age
• Stored at room temperature hence suitable for traveling
• Small and easy to ingest

Cons

• Not ideal for people with milk allergies

Align probiotic supplement is intended to benefit digestive health by soothing occasional abdominal discomfort, bloating, and gas. I rate this probiotic second best because it is suited for vegetarians like me. It also contains Bifidobacterium strains, which is a formula designed to deliver effective doses.

This supplement is soy-free, and the gluten-free ad is only colored with caramel derived from food-grade sugar. One capsule per day is enough to improve your digestive health significantly.

Align is the go-to probiotic that rapidly helps to repopulate good bacteria after taking antibiotics. Like its competitor Bio-Kult, Align probiotic supplements do not require any special storage like refrigeration, and I can store them at room temperature without getting spoiled.

Align is a high-quality probiotic supplement that was discovered by gastroenterologists and has been researched for over 20 years, making it safe, reliable, and effective. However, I had to spend more on these probiotic supplements.

Pros

• Can be stored at room temperature
• Effective at balancing healthy bacteria
• Highly recommended by gastroenterologists

Cons

• Recommended for adults only

NOW is another option that I reviewed among the top probiotic dietary supplements that boost men's immune health. It is also only recommended for adults and contains bacterial strains present in the human GI tract. Other bacterial strains present include those that are clinically validated for their support of immune system function.

Taking NOW supplements is recommended as it helps support healthy gut flora. Some of the health benefits of the NOW supplement are that it helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal lining, improves digestion, and supports proper intestinal motility.

It offers a balanced spectrum of living organisms which also consists of acid-resistant probiotic bacterial strains. NOW probiotics for men are NPA-A rated and certified by GMP, which means that all the steps of the manufacturing process have been examined.

Pros

• Allergen-free
• Supports immune system

Cons

• Non-vegan

Jarrow Formulas could not miss this list. It is the best probiotic for men as it has several bacterial strains to support gut health with a balanced combination of eight probiotic strains that have been clinically researched and studied.

Jarrow delivers at least 10 billion viable cells during consumption. The capsules are blister packed to keep them safe from moisture. Like other probiotic supplements discussed earlier, I can easily store my Jarrow Formulas supplements since they do not require refrigeration.

Pros

• Does not need refrigeration
• Cost-effective
• Blister packed to keep them safe from moisture

Cons

• Harsh side effects

Hyperbiotics probiotics for men are made with 15 probiotic strains that are chosen specifically for their benefits on men. Some of these benefits include gut health, digestion, and supporting energy.

I took the probiotic organisms in these supplements within a period of 8-10 hours. One tablet per day was enough, and it came with numerous benefits, including the ones mentioned above.

Their storage does not even need refrigeration. I could just keep them safely in a cool and dry place. Hyperbiotics help to replenish the beneficial gut bacteria and also support prostate health.

Since I had some intolerances, this was the supplement for me as it contains no allergens. It is vegan, yeast-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. It also lacks soy, nuts, sugar, artificial flavors, or colors. This ensures that you use it without experiencing any adverse reactions.

Pros

• Does not contain any allergens
• Vegan
• Replenishes gut bacteria and offers other health benefits

Cons

• Pricey

Having tried the Hyperbiotics Pro Probiotics in the past, I can say it is a standout product and qualifies as one of the best probiotics for men.

Right off the bat, what grabbed my attention was the impressive blend of probiotic strains included in this supplement. With 6 carefully selected probiotic strains, an extended-release delivery system, and a commitment to safety and purity, this product is your gateway to enhanced energy, fortified immunity, digestive wellness, and prostate support.

One standout feature is its Extended-Release Formula. This proprietary delivery method ensures that the probiotic organisms in the formula are gradually released over an 8-10 hour period. This feature allows the probiotics to bypass the harsh stomach acids and reach deep into the intestinal tract while still alive, where they are needed most. This extended-release mechanism sets it apart by providing continuous support and maximizing the benefits of the probiotics throughout the day.

What truly sets this probiotic bacteria apart is its commitment to quality. It is free from common allergens, making it suitable for men with dietary sensitivities. So, vegetarian men will be delighted to discover that it aligns perfectly with their nutritional choices.

I cannot overlook the positive impact this probiotic has had on men's health. Including support for energy, endurance, immune function, digestion, and regularity, as it addresses common health concerns for men.

The packaging is also worth mentioning. With one tablet recommended per day, the 30-count bottle provides a full month's supply of probiotics, eliminating the need for frequent restocking and ensuring you won't run out unexpectedly. The tablets are easy to swallow and individually sealed for freshness, making them convenient for travel or on-the-go lifestyles.

Pros

• Targeted probiotic strains for men's specific needs.
• Supports immune, digestive, and prostate health.
• The extended-release formula ensures effectiveness.
• Vegan, non-GMO, and free from dairy, gluten, yeast, soy, sugar, iron, nuts, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
• Simple daily regimen with one tablet.
• No refrigeration is required.

Cons

• Potential mild gastrointestinal discomfort during initial usage
• May not address specific health concerns outside of digestive

What to Look for in Probiotics for Men

a) Colony-forming Units

A product must have active and live bacterial cultures to be a real probiotic. This needs to be indicated on its wrapper. Focus on the colony forming units (CFU) as this tells the buyer the number of bacterial cells available per dose.

Generally, choose probiotic products that have at least one billion colony-forming units. Ensure the bacteria includes the following genus Lactobacillus, bacillus, Bifidobacterium, or Saccharomyces boulardii, which are some of the most researched probiotics.

You may still have to go deeper because each genus has several strains that offer different results. To determine the number of colony-forming units you need, ensure you speak to your doctor before you begin using the medication to get the right supplements.

b) Bacterial Diversity

Choose a probiotic with numerous strains, including strains from well-researched genera like, Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, and Saccharomyces, as opposed to one or two types of bacteria.

c) Go for the Foods Instead of the Supplements

You'll find some people would rather go with supplements instead of probiotic foods. Fermented foods provide a nourishing environment for the bacteria to thrive and release beneficial byproducts like short-chain fatty acids.

d) Look for Name Brands

Probiotics are sold as supplements and, therefore, are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. So, companies can just throw in whatever they want into a supplement and then call it a probiotic.

To ensure you do not consume unsafe things, you must do your research ad keep a keen eye on labeling. Reading scientific studies and research reports to know which beneficial bacteria have positively impacted specific conditions.

e) Safety and Side Effects

According to The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, probiotics are usually thought to be safe to consume and won't have any negative effects if you're healthy.

However, you should wait for a go-ahead from your physician if you have a disease or a weakened immune system. It's also acceptable to take a probiotic supplement each day if you're typically healthy.

Though there isn't a universal amount that works for everyone, think about consulting your doctor or a certified dietitian who focuses on functional food. Based on the area of health you're aiming to improve, they will be able to provide more detailed advice.

Finally, pay more attention to how you feel after taking a probiotic supplement. A probiotic strain may not be right for you if your gut health begins to deteriorate rather than improve after taking it. So, you ought to take a break, consult your doctor, and think about attempting a different strain.

f) Avoid Fillers

Probiotics occasionally include fillers such as artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives. Such dangerous components can have severe side effects and undesirable responses, keeping you from taking advantage of all the benefits that probiotic pills are supposed to provide. The all-natural preparations without fillers, harsh chemicals, colors, or preservatives are among the best probiotics for men on our list.

g) Go Dairy-Free

Most probiotics are made with dairy products. However, choose one that does not have dairy if you are sensitive to it.

h) Storage and Date of Expiration

Storage is very important, so pay attention to that information. Generally, you need them to be refrigerated and ensure that the store also does the same. If not stored correctly, heat can kill off microorganisms in your probiotics if they are not stored well.

Colony-forming units decline over time, so ensure you check the expiration date also to ensure that you get live bacteria. Other probiotics are supposed to feed on something, therefore, look for probiotics encapsulated with a food source. This ensures that it has something to feed on and remains viable as long as it sits on the shelf.

What are the Benefits of Probiotics for Men?

Probiotics are known for their numerous benefits, some of which include the following;

a) Healthy Testosterone

Testosterone is a hormone that plays a major role in men`s fertility and sperm production. After 30, men experience a decline in this hormone. However, supplementing with probiotics helps to increase its levels while normalizing other important sex hormones.

Optimal testosterone levels directly affect your libido, so when the testosterone levels g up, so does the sex drive. This hormone is also responsible for regulating muscle strength, mass, and bone density and plays a big role in the production of red blood cells.

b) Boosting Immunity

Illnesses cause the bacteria in the gut to be unbalanced. This is true if you suffer from food poisoning, a stomach virus, or have to take antibiotics. Probiotics help to balance the immune system by replenishing your gut flora with good bacteria.

c) Improves Diarrhea and Constipation

Probiotics may help with various types of diarrhea, like traveler's diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and infectious diarrhea. Some strains may also help improve constipation.

d) Optimizes Gut Function

Ensuring the gut microbiome is balanced lets the gut function normally. However, some adjustments to the gut bacteria can cause problems. Probiotics for men's health can help maintain a healthy bacterial balance in the gut, helping to repopulate with heavy bacteria after conditions that affect the microbiome.

For example, when you are under medication and are using antibiotics, they tend to kill the good bacteria. This in turn, leaves room for fungi, viruses, and bad bacteria to overgrow. So, it is necessary to take probiotics during and after treatment with antibiotics.

e) Reduces Gas and Bloating

Among the most common digestive problems are gas and bloating. An imbalance in your gut microbiome, food intolerances, and yeast overgrowth usually causes these problems. Probiotic supplements help to crowd out bad bacteria and rebalance the gut microbiome.

f) Better Nutrient Absorption

Probiotics ensure that beneficial microbes are kept in the gut, aiding food nutrient absorption. To be specific, some Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains improve the absorption of iron, which is an important micronutrient for the production of blood and oxygen transportation.

g) Improve Gut Integrity

The digestive tract is normally protected by a thin and strong wall of cells known as the gut barrier. The wall lets beneficial particles pass from the intestines to the bloodstream, keeping half-digested food and disease-causing organisms from passing through.

In case the gut barrier gets damaged, other bacteria and proteins may leak through, and this is known as increased intestinal permeability. The integrity of the gut barrier is affected by alcohol use, genetics, and stress.

h) Minimizes Severity of Some Allergies

The gut houses many of the components of the immune system. which is related to allergies. Keeping the digestive tract healthy helps relieve allergies and some skin conditions like eczema.

i) Reduce Symptoms of Digestive Disorders

Changes to the normal bacteria in the digestive system can cause digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics help with the symptoms of IBS, like bloating, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain.

j) Protects Against Antibiotic Resistance

Although antibiotics are sometimes needed to help the body fight infections, they are known to disrupt the digestive environment. In addition, some harmful bacteria may become resistant to antibiotics, which is a real threat to treatment.

k) Keeps the Heart Healthy

Cholesterol level is a major factor for optimal heart health. Supplementation of several strains of probiotics helps to lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, normally known as bad cholesterol.

Side Effects of Probiotics in Men

Everyone has a unique microbiome. This leads to a difference in the way our bodies respond to probiotics. There are several side effects you are likely to experience, depending on the composition of your microbiome.

a) Antibiotic Resistance

Some bacterial strains used in making probiotic supplements have antibiotic resistance genes, and these genes can spread to other bacteria in the gut. This is risky as it makes infections more difficult to treat.

So, it is highly recommended to get probiotic supplements that have been tested for the right bacterial strains. You should also understand that the side effects are not common with well-vetted supplements.

b) Some Strains Increase Histamine Levels

Some bacterial strains can produce histamine in the human digestive system. Histamine is usually produced by your body when it feels threatened.

An increase in histamine levels leads to more permeable blood vessels that end up causing runny noses, itchiness, watery eyes, and trouble breathing.

c) Adverse Reactions

Some people have intolerances or allergies and should ensure they read the label before using any probiotic supplements. This is because some may contain allergens like soy, egg, or dairy.

Also, probiotic yeast should be avoided if you have yeast allergies. In this case, you need to use bacteria-based probiotics. Lactose is also used in some of the best probiotics for men and women, so if you are allergic, avoid the allergies. In this case, use lactose-free products.

d) Infections

Infections are not common, but they are a possible side effect of taking probiotic supplements. They can happen to someone with an immunocompromised status if they take supplements with poor purity standards.

e) Digestive Problems

Probiotic supplements' most common digestive side effects include diarrhea, bloating, and nausea. This happens as the bacteria settles in your microbiome. Although probiotics use is one of the causes of diarrhea, it barely lasts.

The Most Effective Bacterial Strains in the Best Probiotics for Men

The best probiotics for men contain some very important bacterial strains. Some of these strains include;

a) Bifidobacterium lactis

Bifidobacterium Lactis is a well-tolerated bacterial strain that lowers the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improves skin health and digestion.

b) Bifidobacterium bifidum

This is the most popular strain in lactic and acetic production in the gut. It prevents gut inflammation and leads to a healthy digestive system.

c) Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a common probiotic strain that helps with the support of digestive health ad promotes a healthy immune system.

d) Lactobacillus rhamnous

These strains support digestive health, among many other health benefits.

e) Lactobacillus gasseri

Lactobacillus gasseri is a healthy bacterial strain that keeps the reproductive tract healthy and is also responsible for producing a natural antibiotic known as Lactocilin that protects against infections.

f) Lactobacillus plantarum

This is another strain of healthy bacteria that fights irritate bowel syndrome symptoms, improves gut health, and supports digestive system health. It also supports digestive and immune functions, lowers the levels of cholesterol, and reduces allergic reactions.

g) Lactobacillus reuteri

L. reuteri is linked to several health benefits like improved immune health, oral health, and digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best probiotics for men?

There are many probiotics for men out there. However, to use the best, go for Bio-Kult Advanced Probiotic Supplements. This probiotic supplement for men has 14 bacterial strains that keep the gut flora in check.

Its bacteria count is 2 billion per capsule, making only one capsule enough for a day. It is also non-GMO and does not need refrigeration.

2. How do probiotics help men?

Probiotics are important for men's health. They promote regular bowel movement, help maintain healthy body composition and immune system, and support a healthy digestive function.

3. Are probiotics good for men to take?

Yes, probiotics are good for men to take as they have numerous health benefits.

4. What probiotics help with UTIs in men?

UTI infections affect both men and women. So, if you have a bladder infection or would like to prevent one, you should use a probiotic that contains Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

5. What do probiotics do to sperm?

Infertile men can take probiotics to increase sperm concentration and mortality. These supplements also lead to a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers. So, taking probiotics orally can help in dealing with oxidative damage of sperm.

6. Can men take probiotics daily?

Taking probiotics daily has no known harm to men and women. Taking them daily only improves their benefits.

7. What are the signs you need probiotics?

The following may be signs that you need probiotics;

• You feel unwell, bloated, and with skin issues
• You recently took antibiotics and need to balance the bacteria in your system
• You are constantly getting sick

8. Do probiotics help erectile dysfunction?

Probiotics may help improve men's sexual health through the gut microbiome. There may be a link between erectile dysfunction and a low density of gut bugs.

9. What foods are rich in probiotics?

Most foods with natural probiotics or that have probiotics added to them include bread, yogurt, sourdough, some cheeses, pickles, kimchi, miso, kombucha, and sauerkraut.

10. How do probiotics work?

Probiotics, or good bacteria, have one main job: maintaining a healthy balance in your body. It is like keeping your body neutral. When bad bacteria enter the body during an illness and increase in number, it knocks your body out of balance. This is where the good bacteria come in, as it works to restore the balance within your body.

11. What are the common types of probiotic bacteria?

There are many bacteria that are considered as probiotics. However, the two main types of probiotic strains that you can find in stores include;

• Lactobacillus
• Bifidobacterium

Good yeast is also used to make probiotics. The most common type is Saccharomyces boulardii.

12. Should you take your probiotics before or after meals?

Timing is very important when taking probiotics, and consistency is essential. So, probiotic supplements should be taken on an empty stomach. Probiotic bacteria have to pass through acidic stomach conditions to reach the ileum and colon, where they are most effective.

The stomach is designed to kill unwanted viruses and bacteria, so probiotic supplements may be destroyed before reaching the intestines. So, you need to ensure the supplements take the shortest time possible in the stomach.

To help your probiotic supplement move faster, you should take them on an empty stomach. This is 2-3 hours after the last meal or 30 minutes before the next one.