Generalizing about probiotics and their health benefits is widespread…and this is something that we should all be careful about. You see, this trend erroneously assumes that all strains of probiotics deliver the same health benefits, which is NOT the case as you will see later. While it is true that it can be burdensome for manufacturers of probiotic supplements to define which probiotics strains and at what doses should they be taken to get the claimed health benefits, it is a MUST…it is essential to avoid misrepresenting a product.

Along with that, many experts suggest that commercial products that are being marketed without any specific human studies supporting them and backing their claims should NOT be marketed as probiotic supplements BUT as potentially beneficial cultures. HOWEVER, since those amendments so to speak are still on going, knowing the different probiotic strains – especially their health benefits, should help you decide which probiotic products and supplements to go for.

Let’s take a closer look at these brief lists that I have compiled…

Probiotic Strains – Tested In Single Strains And In Blends

Lactobacillus rhamnosus – this probiotic strain, just like its cousins, have been proven to be effective when it comes to enhancing one’s immunity against different diseases and disorders. Along with that, it was also discovered to work very well against infectious diarrhea in children and can prevent atopic dermatitis.

Bifidobacterium infantis – this specie of the Bifidobacteria probiotics, which are found flourishing in the large intestines, alleviates the symptoms caused by Irritable Bowel Syndrome (known as IBS for short) and also reduces the duration of diarrhea experienced by infants down to 2 to 3 days…a great relief from the usual 4 to 5 days of excruciating pain.

Bifidobacterium longum – If you are someone who is suffering from allergies and its symptoms and are looking for quick relief, then this is the probiotic strain to take. Along with that, B. longum also restores the balance between good and bad bacteria in your intestinal tract by producing compounds that inhibit the production of not so friendly bacteria.

Lactobacillus acidophilus – So you are suffering from lactose intolerance and can’t withstand the symptoms it brings? If you answered yes to that, then you should take dietary supplements containing L. acidophilus. This strain has been proven to alleviate the symptoms of the said digestive disorder. Along with that, it also reduces the effects of small bacterial overgrowth.

Lactobacillus plantarum – Are you someone who just gone through surgery and needs supplements to maintain your gut’s health? If you are, then you should take Lactobacillus plantarum. Along with that, it also reduces the symptoms of IBS or irritable bowel syndrome.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR 1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 – Oral consumption of this blend of probiotics leads to colonization of vaginal tract. Along with that, studies also revealed improved therapeutic results for those women who are being treated with bacterial vaginosis.