Probiotics — Worth Supplementing and How to Choose the Right Strain?

What exactly are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that — when administered in adequate amounts — confer a health benefit to the host (WHO). Key: "live" and "adequate amount."

Important rule: health benefits are strain-specific. What works for Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG for antibiotic-associated diarrhea may not work for L. rhamnosus from another manufacturer.

Strains and their applications

Strain	Documented effect
L. rhamnosus GG	Antibiotic-associated diarrhea, IBS
S. boulardii	Traveler's diarrhea
L. plantarum 299v	IBS with abdominal pain

The gut-brain axis

Growing research confirms the link between gut microbiome and mental health — 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. "Psychobiotic" strains may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms. This is still an emerging field, but the biological foundations are solid.