Probiotic Supplementation

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As future healthcare professionals, we are aware of the benefits of probiotics from whole foods such as yogurt, kefir, miso, or kimchee.  However, those who cannot consume enough of these foods to meet their needs or need a certain dosage for a certain medical diagnosis, supplementation may be the way to go.  The following six probiotic supplements may be used for specific conditions:
1.     Align- used to reduce symptoms of bloating, cramping, and stool frequency in those with IBS
2.     Bio-K+- reduces incidence of antibiotic associated diarrhea
3.     Culturelle- has been shown to reduce severity and duration of acute infectious diarrhea and antibiotic associated diarrhea
4.     Florastor- prevents “traveler’s” diarrhea and antibiotic associated diarrhea
5.     Mutaflor- has been found to be as potent as mesalazine (anti-inflammatory drug) in remission patients with ulcerative colitis
6.     VSL#3- A probiotic medical food that contains eight different strains of bacteria.  Alleviates symptoms of IBS, ulcerative colitis, and pouchitis

The article highlights the specifics of probiotics and even though they are not for everyone, it is recommended for people during times of stress and illness, taking antibiotics, or have a history of antibiotics.  Dietitian Wendy Jo Peterson states that she recommends probiotics to her clients because of the multiple strains of beneficial bacteria that can help with a lot of conditions from gut to mental health.

Collins, S. (2015). Improve gut health with probiotic supplements. Today’s Dietitian, (17)2, 14-16.

-DH

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