14-11-2023

What Are The different types of probiotics Strains/Forms?

(various formulations, capsules, gummies, suspension, powder, vial)

Most Common types of probiotics - Probiotics come in various strains depending on the user’s preference and the health needs. Each probiotic strain offers unique health benefit, which makes it important to understand the role each strain plays in maintaining good gut health and overall wellness of the user. Here are some of the common types of probiotic strains:

Lactobacillus Acidophilus: One of the most common probiotic strains usually found in curd and food supplements. It is found in the intestines and used to support good digestive health and vaginal health. It also helps in countering lactose intolerance.

Lactobacillus Casei: It contributes to digestive health and boosting the immune system. This strain is found in dairy products and supplements.

Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: This strain can help in prevention of diarrhea, promote gut health, and improve the immune system.

Bifidobacterium Bifidum: This probiotic strain plays a crucial role in maintaining balanced gut microbiota, improves digestion and boosts immune function.

Bifidobacterium Infantis: Commonly found in infant intestines, this probiotic strain assists in maintaining good gut health and alleviate and digestive discomfort.

Saccharomyces Boulardii: Although it’s a yeast, it is considered a probiotic. This strain is used to prevent and treat diarrhea and manage various types of digestive issues.

Probiotics are available in various forms to suit varying needs and preferences of its users. Some of its common forms are:

Dietary Supplements

Capsules: The probiotic is encapsulated in an edible coating which has longer shelf life compared to others.

Tablets: This is similar to capsules except its entirely solid.

Powder: This variant of probiotic can be mixed with water, milk, or juice and consumed directly. It is useful for those having issues with swallowing pills.

Chewable tablets - Gummies: This probiotic comes in chewable form which is preferred by children since its more palatable and comes in various flavours.

Drinks/Food Items

Curd/Yogurt: This food item contains live bacterial cultures such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains.

Kimchi: This is a spicy, fermented Korean dish made from cabbage and other vegetables. It is rich in probiotics.

Kombucha: A Chinese origin fermented tea that contains probiotics and available in various flavours. It has seen immense popularity in younger generation in recent years.

Kefir: Similar to curd but with a thinner consistency and texture. This food item is rich in probiotics and suited for those with digestive problems.

Pickles: Pickles are also a good source of probiotics since many of its constituents are fermented and contain good amounts of probiotics.

Tempeh: This is a fermented soya bean-based food item rich in probiotics.

Skincare

Probiotics are also incorporated in skin care products in many forms, which includes creams, serums, cleansers, lipsticks, and so forth. It helps in promoting health skin microbiome and counters various skin issues.