Probiotics have become increasingly popular in recent years as more people recognize the importance of gut health for overall well-being. But with so many options available, it can be confusing to know which types of probiotics to take and how to incorporate them into your daily routine. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of different probiotic combinations, discuss the pros and cons of spore-based probiotics, and provide guidance on when to take these beneficial bacteria for maximum impact.
One common question that arises when considering probiotic supplementation is whether it's beneficial to combine different strains, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. The good news is that these two probiotic powerhouses work well together and are often found in high-quality professional formulas.
Dr. Justin Marchegiani, a renowned functional medicine practitioner, explains, “We use those together all the time. You get different nutritional benefits in the gut from different species.” This combination approach allows for a more comprehensive support of gut health, as each strain offers unique benefits to the microbiome.
While there are some cases where practitioners might recommend using just one strain – either Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium – these situations are relatively rare and typically involve highly sensitive individuals. For the majority of people, a combination approach is well-tolerated and can provide more robust support for digestive health.
In certain situations, particularly when addressing issues like mold exposure or Candida overgrowth, practitioners may recommend adding a third probiotic strain to the mix: Saccharomyces boulardii. This beneficial yeast, often marketed as a probiotic, can work synergistically with Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium to provide even more comprehensive support for gut health.
Dr. Marchegiani notes, “We're often throwing in Saccharomyces boulardii in there too. So then, now you're doing Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and you're doing Saccharomyces. That triple combo… will often work that into the protocol, and it does so much better.”
While traditional probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium have a long history of use, spore-based probiotics have gained attention in recent years. These probiotics, derived from soil-based organisms, are known for their ability to survive harsh conditions in the gut. However, experiences with spore-based probiotics can vary significantly from person to person.
Dr. Evan Brand, another respected functional medicine practitioner, shares his personal experience: “They give me just terrible gas. My God, it just hurts my tummy. I've tried them, I went on them, I went off of them, I went low dose, I went high dose. I mean, we even manufactured some, too, and I'm like, ‘God, I just don't feel that good with them.'”
On the other hand, Dr. Brand acknowledges that some people have remarkable results with spore-based probiotics: “I've had some people that are like, ‘Hey, this thing is a miracle cure. This is the best I've ever felt.' And good for them, but for me, it just did not go well.”
Dr. Marchegiani offers a more balanced perspective, noting that spore-based probiotics can be particularly beneficial for certain patients: “Patients that don't do well with your Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium – I definitely have a good bunch that do better with the spore-based probiotic. So depending on the level of SIBO [small intestinal bacterial overgrowth] that's going on, some patients do really great with it.”
He also points out an interesting potential benefit of spore-based probiotics: “Supposedly, the spore-based probiotics really help potentiate the growth of these other beneficial flora. So it does help a lot of the other beneficial flora, and they do hang out a lot longer, too.”
When it comes to taking probiotics, timing can be an important factor in maximizing their effectiveness. Dr. Marchegiani shares his approach: “I personally take them on an empty stomach, and I'll do them first thing in the morning like before breakfast. I'll just pop all my supplements, or I'll take them before bed.”
The rationale behind this timing is to give the beneficial bacteria the best chance of surviving and colonizing the gut. Many professional-grade probiotic supplements use acid-resistant capsules, which help protect the bacteria from stomach acid. As Dr. Marchegiani explains, “We're using an acid-resistant capsule, so it's actually going to bypass the stomach acid and deliver the beneficial microbes to the gut.”
By taking probiotics on an empty stomach, there's less competition with food, potentially allowing for better colonization of the gut. However, it's important to note that if you're taking binders (substances that help remove toxins from the body), you may want to separate these from your probiotic intake to avoid potential interference.
Understanding the state of your gut health is crucial for determining the most effective probiotic regimen. Functional medicine practitioners often employ a variety of lab tests to assess gut function, microbial balance, and overall digestive health. Here are some common tests used in functional medicine to evaluate gut health:
Comprehensive Stool Analysis: This test provides a detailed look at the gut microbiome, including beneficial and harmful bacteria, yeast, and parasites. It also assesses digestive function, inflammation markers, and short-chain fatty acid production.
Organic Acids Test: This urine test can reveal imbalances in gut bacteria and yeast, as well as provide information about nutrient deficiencies and oxidative stress.
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Breath Test: This test helps diagnose SIBO by measuring hydrogen and methane gases produced by bacteria in the small intestine.
Food Sensitivity Testing: While not directly a gut health test, food sensitivity panels can help identify foods that may be contributing to gut inflammation and dysfunction.
Intestinal Permeability Assessment: Also known as a “leaky gut” test, this assesses the integrity of the intestinal lining, which is crucial for proper nutrient absorption and immune function.
These tests provide valuable insights into gut health and can guide practitioners in developing personalized probiotic and treatment protocols. By identifying specific imbalances or issues, functional medicine doctors can tailor recommendations to address each patient's unique needs.
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Are you struggling with gut health issues or curious about how probiotics could benefit your overall well-being? Dr. Justin Marchegiani and his team at Just In Health are here to help. With years of experience in functional medicine and a deep understanding of gut health, Dr. J can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your unique needs.
Don't let digestive issues hold you back any longer. Take the first step towards optimal gut health by scheduling a free consultation with Dr. J. During this consultation, you'll have the opportunity to discuss your concerns, learn about functional medicine approaches to gut health, and explore how targeted probiotic supplementation could benefit you.
To schedule your free consultation, visit www.justinhealth.com/free-consult today. Your journey to better gut health and overall wellness starts here!
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