Probiotics for digestion
Understand what probiotics are, why the specific strain matters, and when they may be useful.
What it does
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide a health benefit when taken in an appropriate amount. They are different from digestive enzymes and fiber. A strain is a particular type of microorganism, identified by letters and numbers after its name.
When it may help
Some probiotics can help with particular digestive problems. The evidence depends on the condition, strain and amount; a benefit from one probiotic cannot be assumed for all others.
What to keep in mind
There is no single probiotic that everyone needs. More strains or a larger bacterial count does not automatically mean better digestion.
How this relates to energy
A probiotic may be considered for a specific digestive concern. If that concern improves, daily life may feel easier, but this is not proof that the product treats fatigue.
Tiredness alone does not identify a probiotic need. If it persists, consider other causes with your clinician rather than repeatedly changing gut supplements.
Read more: Choosing a probiotic — NIH · Probiotics: benefits and safety — NIH
What to look for
The full strain name
Look for the letters and numbers after the microorganism name so you can compare it with the research.
A count through expiry
CFU, or colony-forming units, estimates the number of live microorganisms. Look for the count at the expiry date and follow storage directions.
A specific purpose
Choose around the problem being addressed, not a general promise to improve every aspect of gut health.
Independent quality testing
Look for independent quality testing, such as NSF or USP verification. It checks aspects of product quality, not whether you will benefit.
Food and supplements are not interchangeable
Yogurt and other fermented foods can fit a varied diet. They do not necessarily contain the same strains or amounts as a studied probiotic supplement.
Before taking it
People with serious illness or a weakened immune system should ask their clinician before taking live probiotics.
Gas or bloating can occur, especially when a product also contains added fiber.
Further reading
- Choosing a probiotic — NIH
- Probiotics: benefits and safety — NIH
- Supplement labels, testing and safety — NIH
These sources provide general education. They do not endorse the product below.
Optional product recommendation
Recommended by Dr. Brittany Snustad
Dr. Brittany Snustad recommends Nutrilite Balance Within Probiotic. Whether it is appropriate for you depends on your needs, medicines and other supplements.
Nutrilite™ Balance Within™ Probiotic
Probiotic powder
30 stick packs · 30 daily servings
Item 120571
What it contains
- Five strains—HN019, NCFM, La-14, BL-04 and Lpc-37—totaling 6.3 billion CFU, a measure of live microorganisms, through expiry when stored as directed.
- 1 gram of fiber from chicory root inulin per stick pack.
Where this product fits
Balance Within is an optional probiotic blend for a digestion-focused discussion. It should not be expected to improve low energy, and its five strains are not a reason to assume it suits every digestive problem.
How it is taken
Label directions: use daily, directly on the tongue or mixed into cold food or a cold, noncarbonated drink. Avoid hot food and drinks.
Before ordering
- Inulin and probiotics can cause gas or bloating.
- Ask your clinician before use if you have a medical condition, particularly a weakened immune system or serious illness.
- Stress Relief Probiotic also contains probiotics. More strains or a higher bacterial count does not automatically mean a better result.
Products are optional and purchased separately from the Reset Method membership. Member discounts are applied manually while paid membership access is active. Opening the link does not apply the discount.
Impact Health and Dr Snustad earn money from product purchases made through our online store.
If you prefer another brand, we recommend looking for a product with comparable ingredients, amounts and 3rd party testing.
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