More and more people in Singapore take probiotic supplements to boost their gut health nowadays. There’s definitely a growing trend towards foods and other health products that do more than just provide essential nutrients.
But did you know that probiotics come in many kinds? Each of them has its own speciality over the other, so you have to choose which one suits you best at the moment.
Here’s a quick guide to help you pick the right type of probiotic for your health needs.
Common Probiotics and What They’re Known For
Probiotic bacteria come in hundreds of species and thousands of strains. It would take us forever to discuss each one in detail! To make it easier for you, let’s stick to the genus instead.
We’ll discuss three popular ones: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacteria, and Saccharomyces.
- Lactobacillus – This is probably the most well-known genus and is typically found in yoghurts and fermented food. It’s also the main probiotic used for constipation and other digestive issues. You may also benefit from this bacteria if you’re lactose intolerant, as it’s effective at breaking down lactose.
- Bifidobacterium – Another helpful probiotic for digestive health is Bifidobacterium, which is generally located in our intestines. This genus helps break down dietary fibres and alleviate irritable bowel syndrome. Certain strains are also used to boost your immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Saccharomyces – If Lactobacillus is found in yoghurt and fermented food while Bifidobacterium is in our colon, then Saccharomyces is found in yeast. It’s particularly useful in treating diarrhoea caused by antibiotics and can restore your gut’s balance after antibiotic treatments.
How to Choose Your Probiotic Supplement
Each type of probiotic has its own purpose, so here are some tips so you can decide on the right one.
What is Your Health Goal?
Always determine what you need it for so you can get the appropriate product. For instance, the best probiotic supplement for weight loss might be different from the strains needed for older adults. It’s better to speak with your healthcare provider on what specific strains to take. However, if you only want to improve your overall health, a broad-spectrum probiotic supplement may suit you just fine.
Check the CFU Count
The CFU or Colony Forming Units specifies how many live bacteria are in each dose. For a product to at least be considered a probiotic, it should contain at least 1 billion CFUs. However, do take note that the general daily recommendation to maintain your gut health is to take at least 10-20 billion CFUs.
Look for Strains Backed by Research
When you’re buying probiotic supplements in Singapore, always check the label for the strains they contain. Reputable brands use those that have already been scientifically tested and proven, so you have more reassurance that you’re getting the benefits you want.
Consider Your Lifestyle
It might not be convenient to buy refrigerated probiotics if you’re frequently travelling. Look for products that have a stable shelf life even if stored at room temperature — they’ll be easier to carry with you in your bags.
Probiotic Foods are Still Important
Probiotic supplements can certainly help boost our gut health, but we can’t completely rely on them. It’s best to strive for a diet rich in probiotic foods to give our microbiome more variety.
We shouldn’t forget to eat prebiotic-rich foods too. If you want the good bacteria to thrive in your digestive system, you need to feed them properly.
Related Infographic: 5 Benefits of Taking Daily Probiotics
Take Care of Your Gut With Probiotics
Picking a probiotic supplement in Singapore isn’t a complicated task if you know what you’re looking for. Just take the time to learn the strains you need, and you can buy what you need, regardless of whether it’s a probiotic for constipation or your immunity.
And remember to buy from trusted brands if you want to stay safe. A healthy gut is always worth spending a little extra.
