As with most areas of health, companies are always trying to find a quick fix to sell; the gut microbiome is no different. One supplement that seems to be everywhere is probiotics.  We do not know yet exactly which bacteria we need.  Lactobacillus and bifidobacteria have generally been recognized as beneficial; however, we do not know yet which strain(s) we need for which condition.

 

Marketed as “nutraceuticals”, probiotics cannot make health claims nor does the FDA regulate them.  That makes it hard to regulate quality and quantity of bacterial strains.  Everyone’s gut microbiome is unique; therefore, we do not know yet which probiotic would be best for your gut health. 

 

The best thing you can do is to continue to eat lots of complex carbohydrates, especially when given antibiotics. Choose whole food sources of naturally occurring probiotics like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.