Login or Register

What Are the Kinds of Probiotic Pills?

May 23, 2011 | By Charis Grey

If you want the digestive health benefits of probiotics but don't like the taste of yogurt, probiotic supplements may be the answer. But a glance along the aisles of your supplement supplier can bring up even more questions. With so many probiotic options lining the shelves, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you. Knowing the difference between the various types of probiotic supplements can make your task easier. Consult your doctor before taking probiotic supplements.

Probiotics Explained

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer positive health benefits when consumed. Your body already contains friendly bacteria, called your normal flora. They colonize your gastrointestinal system and help prevent infection by pathogens. Probiotic supplements and foods that contain probiotics bolster your digestive health by supporting your normal flora.

Pills, Powders and Liquids

Probiotic supplements are widely available from natural foods retailers in capsule, tablet, powder and liquid forms, though it's wise to take a skeptic's view on any health claims made on product labels. Though manufacturers are expected to ensure that their products are safe, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn't require premarket approval before making claims that relate a supplement to normal human body function, USProbiotics.org reports. Many currently marketed products have no clear ties to research backing up claims of beneficial effects.

Bacteria vs. Yeast

Though the vast majority of probiotics are bacterial, one probiotic, called Saccharomyces boulardii, is a type of yeast. Commonly referred to as baker's yeast, Saccharomyces boulardii is available packaged in capsule form for easy consumption. According to MedlinePlus, Saccharomyces boulardii may be effective in treating antibiotic associated diarrhea, traveler's diarrhea, pediatric diarrhea, HIV-associated diarrhea, intestinal Clostridium difficile infection, acne and the side effects of ulcer treatment.

Single Strain vs. Multi Strain

There are many different strains of bacteria that are considered probiotic. Some probiotic supplements contain a single strain of bacteria. Others contain multiple strains, sometimes in conjunction with other nutrients. One important thing to note when considering probiotic supplements is that the effects of probiotics are strain-specific. Not all types of probiotics are identical in their effects. If you're taking probiotics to address a specific disorder, you'll need to make sure that the strain you're taking has been researched and found effective in addressing that disorder. Different forms of probiotic bacteria vary in their effects on your immune system, "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" states.

References

Article reviewed by Avraham Zuroff Last updated on: May 23, 2011

Must see: Photo Galleries

Member Comments