Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are typically classified by genus, species, and sometimes strain. Here are the main types of probiotics based on their genera and common species/strains:

1. Lactobacillus

  • Most common type found in yogurt and fermented foods.

  • Known for aiding digestion and improving lactose tolerance.

  • Common species/strains:

    • Lactobacillus acidophilus

    • Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)

    • Lactobacillus casei

    • Lactobacillus plantarum

    • Lactobacillus reuteri 



2. Bifidobacterium

  • Typically found in the intestines, especially helpful for colon health.

  • Supports digestion and may reduce symptoms of IBS and diarrhea.

  • Common species/strains:

    • Bifidobacterium bifidum

    • Bifidobacterium longum

    • Bifidobacterium breve

    • Bifidobacterium infantis (notably used for IBS)



3. Saccharomyces

  • A probiotic yeast, unlike most other bacterial probiotics.

  • Helpful for antibiotic-associated diarrhea and traveler’s diarrhea.

  • Most common strain: Saccharomyces boulardii

 

4. Streptococcus

  • Some species have probiotic properties, especially for oral and throat health.

  • Example:

    • Streptococcus thermophilus – used in yogurt, aids digestion.



5. Bacillus

  • Spore-forming bacteria, more resistant to heat and stomach acid.

  • Often found in soil-based probiotic supplements.

  • Common species:

    • Bacillus coagulans

    • Bacillus subtilis

 

6. Enterococcus

  • Not as commonly used due to potential pathogenicity, but some strains are considered safe.

  • Example:

    • Enterococcus faecium (used in some veterinary and human probiotics)

 

7. Escherichia

  • Certain non-pathogenic strains like Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 are used for gut health, especially in inflammatory bowel diseases.

 

Choosing the Right Probiotic

The effectiveness of a probiotic depends on:

 

  • Strain specificity (not all strains of the same species have the same effects)

  • Intended use (e.g., IBS, antibiotic recovery, immune support)

  • Dosage (measured in CFUs – colony-forming units)



Using probiotics alongside antibiotics is a smart strategy to help maintain gut health, reduce antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and prevent issues like Candida overgrowth. Here’s how to do it properly:

 

 How to Use Probiotics with Antibiotics

1. Choose the Right Probiotic Strains

Certain strains are especially effective when taken with antibiotics:

 

  • Saccharomyces boulardii – a yeast, so it’s not affected by antibiotics and is excellent for preventing diarrhea.

  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) – well-studied for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

  • Bifidobacterium lactis and Bifidobacterium longum – support gut flora restoration.

  • Lactobacillus acidophilus – helps repopulate healthy gut bacteria.

 

2. Timing Matters

  • Don’t take probiotics and antibiotics at the exact same time.

  • Take the probiotic at least 2–3 hours after your antibiotic dose.

    • This gives the probiotic a better chance of surviving and colonizing your gut.

 

3. Continue After Finishing Antibiotics

  • Keep taking probiotics for at least 1–2 weeks after finishing your antibiotics.

    • This helps to rebuild your microbiome, which can take weeks to recover.



4. Use Adequate Dosage

  • Look for products with at least 10–20 billion CFUs per dose.

  • In some cases (e.g., after broad-spectrum antibiotics), higher doses (up to 50+ billion CFUs) may be recommended temporarily.

 

Important Tips

  • Look for multi-strain probiotics to support broader gut diversity.

  • Refrigerated or shelf-stable? Either is fine—just ensure proper storage.

  • If you’re immunocompromised, consult your doctor before starting any probiotic.

 

Optional: Supportive Foods

Eat prebiotic-rich foods (like garlic, onions, leeks, bananas, oats) to help feed the good bacteria. A healthy diet will include some fermented foods, too. Such as Greek yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, and even kombucha. Keep in mind that probiotic supplements typically contain more good bacteria than these foods. I find that the healthier the gut, the more these food serves us, and we may not need to consume probiotic supplements.

 

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Laura HillComment