Culturelle is a supplement that can be purchased in drugstores and grocery stores nationwide. Culturelle has several formulations including Natural Health and Wellness, Culturelle for Kids, Digestive Health and Dairy Free Health and Wellness. Talk to your doctor before adding probiotics to your regimen, especially if you have chronic health conditions or if you take any prescription medications.
Definition
The active bacteria contained in Culturelle products are Lactobacillus GG, or LGG. Two doctors by the names of Dr. Sherwood Gorbach and Dr. Barry Goldin first discovered Lactobacillus, hence the GG in the name. What they discovered is a type of good bacteria that resides within the intestines to help fight disease-causing bacteria, yeast and other organisms that make you sick. These bacteria are known as probiotics. Dr. Bob Sears with AskDrSears.com explains that LGG is the "gold standard of probiotics" because it has been studied in so many clinical trials over the years.
Benefits
LGG contained in Culturelle has many benefits in the human body, including that it helps regulate digestion and support the immune system. LGG can help relieve symptoms related to diarrhea, upset stomach and constipation. Whenever good bacteria in the intestines decrease due to antibiotic usage or stress, harmful bacteria grow unchecked and cause all of these problems. LGG helps balance out those bad bacteria and return the body to a more healthy state.
Usage and Dosage
The Lactobacillus cultures within Culturelle can be taken by people of every age group, from infants to elderly and even pregnant women. It is very versatile and can be taken with food, or on an empty stomach. Capsules can even be opened and mixed with cool or cold foods such as pudding or applesauce, or mixed into beverages. Avoid mixing Culturelle with hot foods that could kill the bacteria, rendering it ineffective. Culturelle should be taken any time you are under stress, are taking an antibiotic and when you are experiencing digestive issues. Individuals over the age of 13 can take one capsule per day. Children can take one packet of the children's formulation per day.
Side Effects
Side effects may occur when taking Culturelle with Lactobacillus, just like with any other medication. Sometimes, symptoms such as bloating, gas and stomach gurgling can occur when you first begin to take the product. This occurs because your digestive system is getting used to having the good bacteria added back to your system. These symptoms usually subside within a week of initiating use of the product. Contact your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
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