Your gut does more than just digest your food. The digestive system is home to trillions of microorganisms that make up whatâs known as the gut microbiome, and maintaining a healthy balance of these microorganisms plays an important role in digestive health and overall wellness.
Thatâs one reason probiotics have become a frequent topic of conversation at Cushing Family Pharmacy.
One option we frequently recommend is Replenish Biotic, a probiotic supplement designed to support a healthy balance of beneficial microorganisms in the digestive system.
But before grabbing just any probiotic off the shelf, it helps to understand what probiotics actually do, and why they arenât all the same.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in appropriate amounts, may provide health benefits.
Youâll commonly see probiotics marketed for digestive health, especially for people looking to support a healthy gut microbiome.
But thereâs something important to understand:
âProbioticâ is a broad category.
Different products can contain different microorganisms, strains, and amounts. The evidence for a particular probiotic can depend on the specific strains it contains and why you’re taking it.
In other words, the bottle with the biggest number on the front isnât automatically the best choice.
What About Probiotics with Antibiotics?
This is one of the most common reasons we talk to patients about probiotics.
Antibiotics are important medications used to treat bacterial infections, but while doing their job, they can also disrupt some of the bacteria normally living in your digestive tract.
Certain probiotics have been studied for their potential to help reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
If you’re considering taking a probiotic during a course of antibiotics, ask your pharmacist about the best way to use it. Depending on the antibiotic and probiotic, we may recommend separating when you take them.
And remember: a probiotic doesn’t replace your antibiotic. Always take your antibiotic exactly as prescribed unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
Can Probiotics Help with Digestion?
Certain probiotic strains have been studied for digestive concerns such as occasional bloating and some types of diarrhea.
The important word there is certain.
Results from one probiotic strain shouldn’t automatically be applied to every probiotic product. A probiotic that may be useful for one digestive concern isn’t necessarily the best choice for another.
That’s also true for conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some probiotic strains and combinations have been studied in people with IBS, but results vary.
If you’re dealing with persistent abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or another ongoing digestive problem, don’t simply continue trying different supplements indefinitely. Talk with your healthcare provider about what may be causing your symptoms.
Not Every Probiotic Is the Same
Walk down the supplement aisle and you’ll see probiotic bottles with all kinds of numbers, strains, and claims.
It can get confusing quickly.
When comparing probiotics, there are several things worth considering, including:
- The specific microorganisms and strains included
- The amount provided
- Recommended use
- Storage requirements
- Expiration date
- Why you’re considering a probiotic in the first place
More isn’t automatically better. What matters is choosing a product that makes sense for your individual needs.
That’s where your pharmacist can help.
Is a Probiotic Right for Everyone?
Probiotics are generally well tolerated by many healthy people, although some people may experience temporary gas, bloating, or digestive changes when beginning a new product.
However, probiotics aren’t necessarily appropriate for everyone.
People who have significantly weakened immune systems, serious illnesses, or complex medical conditions should talk with their healthcare professional before beginning a probiotic supplement.
If you’re unsure, ask us before you start one.
Why Replenish Biotic?
With so many probiotic products available, we understand why choosing one can feel overwhelming.
Replenish Biotic is one of the probiotic options available through Replenish Nutrition and one we carry for patients looking to support their digestive and gut health.
Rather than choosing a probiotic based solely on advertising or the largest number printed on the bottle, we encourage you to talk with us about why you’re considering one.
Are you taking an antibiotic? Are you looking for general digestive support? Are you experiencing a specific digestive concern?
Those questions can help us have a much more useful conversation about whether a probiotic, and Replenish Biotic specifically, makes sense for you.
Let Us Help You Choose
Choosing a probiotic doesn’t have to mean standing in the supplement aisle comparing bottles and wondering which one is actually right for you.
Whether you’re considering a probiotic during or after antibiotics, looking for digestive support, or simply have questions about gut health, talk with the team at Cushing Family Pharmacy.
We can review your medications, answer your questions, and help you determine whether adding a probiotic to your routine may be appropriate.
Your gut health matters. Let us help you find an option that makes sense for you.