Probiotics 

What are probiotics? 

Probiotics are beneficial live microorganisms that can help support a healthy balance of bacteria in the digestive system. Different probiotic strains may support different areas of digestive, immune and overall wellness. 

How do I choose a probiotic? 

Start with your specific needs. Some probiotics are formulated for everyday digestive support, while others target concerns like bloating, occasional constipation, immune health or women’s wellness. Look at the strains included - not just the CFU count - and consider features like shelf stability, delayed-release capsules and added prebiotics. 

What does CFU mean in probiotics? 

CFU stands for colony-forming units and indicates the number of live microorganisms in a probiotic serving. A higher CFU count is not automatically better; the strains included and how the formula is designed also matter. 

Are more probiotic strains better? 

Not necessarily. Different strains have different characteristics, so a well-designed formula with strains selected for a specific purpose may be more important than simply having the greatest number of strains. 

What's the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? 

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, while prebiotics are fibers and other compounds that help nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut. Products that combine both are often called synbiotics. 

When should I take probiotics? 

Timing depends on the specific formula. Many probiotics are designed for daily use, with or without food. For best results, follow the storage and suggested-use directions on the product label.