So, you have decided to add some more probiotics into your diet, but where do you start? Choosing a quality supplement can be tricky since so many are available on the market.
One issue is finding supplements containing enough beneficial bacteria, so they have a good chance of being effective. When looking to buy probiotic supplements, it is important to buy supplements that are safe and free of contaminants. Many good-quality probiotics like the Mega spore probiotics contain five strains of Bacillus and are created with care, keeping the well-being of the consumers in mind.
The following article discusses some issues to consider when buying probiotic supplements.
Features To Check While Buying Probiotics
According to Statista, the global market value of probiotic dietary supplements is projected to grow to $7 billion by 2025. Here are the things you must check while buying these health supplements.
Genuine Probability of Beneficial Effects
Many studies indicate that some probiotics can help with specific health problems. Still, it is crucial to find out what strain of bacteria has the most significant probability of helping you.
For example, lactobacillus acidophilus may not be effective against Crohn’s disease.
Potency and Number of Live Bacteria
The potency of a probiotic is usually measured in colony-forming units or CFUs. The number of live bacteria should also be high to ensure that the probiotics survive passage through the acidic stomach and reach the intestines. Spore-based probiotics are probiotics encased in a special shell called a spore that helps them survive stomach acid. Spores are designed to be activated in the intestines where they can then help populate good bacteria.
Shelf Life
Probiotics are living organisms that can die if they are not properly stored. So, it is crucial to choose a supplement with fresh bacteria. A product that is past its expiration date is no longer likely to be effective. Many probiotics require refrigeration so keep that in mind when purchasing. Spore-based probiotics can have a longer shelf life and don’t require refrigeration which can be a benefit especially for those that travel.
The Brand
There are many good brands of probiotics on the market, but some aren’t so trustworthy. You must trust the manufacturer and check if its products have undergone third-party testing by reputable laboratories.
The company should also have a good reputation for quality control and should offer easy access to customer service.
Ingredients List
The ingredients list will tell you what is in the supplement. Ensure that it contains beneficial bacteria rather than specific types of sugars or fillers.
Dosage
The dosage should be clearly stated on the label, and it is crucial to follow the instructions.
Probiotics should not be taken in high doses as this could cause unpleasant side effects, such as gas and bloating. It’s best to start with a smaller dosage and increase it over time per the manufacturer or your health care practitioner’s instructions.
The Number of Probiotic Strains
Some probiotics contain a single strain of bacteria, while others contain multiple strains. It is thought that a combination of strains is more likely to be effective than a single strain.
The Form of The Probiotic
Supplements like Mega Spore Probiotics can come in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, or powders. Some people find one form more convenient than another.
Animal Studies
Animal studies can be helpful to determine if a supplement is safe and effective. However, not all supplements have been tested on animals, so information may not always be available.
Clinical Studies
Clinical studies are the most reliable way of finding out if a supplement is effective. They usually involve human volunteers and are conducted in a controlled setting. However, not all supplements have been tested in this way.
Price
The price of probiotics can vary quite a lot, so it is essential to compare prices before you buy. Some brands charge high prices for probiotics, but they may not necessarily be better than cheaper brands.
The Country of Origin
The country of origin is important as some countries have stricter manufacturing standards than others.
Reviews
Customer reviews can give you an indication of customer satisfaction with the product and its effectiveness. It is important to find reviews from people who have used the product, not just reviews from the manufacturer or retailer.
Tips to Consume Probiotic Supplements
Here are some tips for using while consuming these nutritional supplements.
1. Take the supplement as recommended by your doctor or health practitioner.
2. Start with a low dosage to see how it affects you and gradually increase the dose if there are no side effects.
3. Swallow pills whole without breaking them apart, crushing them, or chewing them up, since this could damage the bacteria in the pill and reduce its effectiveness.
4. Empty the contents of a probiotic powder sachet into a glass of water and stir well before drinking. Most powders are excellent and will dissolve easily in water or juice.
5. Some liquids such as milk (except goat milk) and fruit juice may interfere with the growth of beneficial bacteria, so check that there are no added sugars or other ingredients which could inhibit the probiotics.
6. If you are taking a probiotic supplement for the first time, start with a small dose and increase it gradually over several weeks to allow your body to get used to it.
7. Store probiotics in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. High temperatures and humidity can damage the bacteria.
8. Discard any probiotic supplement that has been open for more than two weeks since the beneficial bacteria may have died off.
9. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before taking a probiotic supplement. Some supplements are not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
When choosing a probiotic supplement, it is essential to pay due attention to the above-listed factors to ensure the best results.
