BY JOYCE WONG JIN YI
PROBIOTICS have gained immense popularity in recent years for their potential health benefits. These live bacteria and yeasts promote a healthy balance of gut flora and offer a wide range of advantages, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, and supporting overall well-being. However, with the abundance of probiotic supplements available on the market, choosing the right one can take time and effort. To help you make an informed decision, here are some handy tips for selecting the right probiotic supplement.
Label Transparency: When evaluating probiotic supplements, label transparency is crucial. Look for products that specify the strains of bacteria present. For example, you might come across names like Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium longum. Identifying the strains enables you to conduct further research and understand their potential benefits. You can choose a probiotic supplement that suits your specific needs by aligning the strains with your health goals.
Types of Probiotics: Probiotics encompass a wide range of bacterial strains, each with its characteristics and potential benefits. It’s important to note that not all strains provide the same advantages. For instance, certain strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum have been proven beneficial for digestive health, preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, alleviating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms, and improving vaginal health. Other strains, such as S. salivarius, target our oral health, while Saccharomyces boulardii is a probiotic yeast commonly used to treat diarrhoea. Look for specific strains that have been studied. and shown to provide the desired benefits
