How to Choose a Probiotic: A Simple Guide

Walk down any supplement aisle and you will see dozens of probiotics. The labels are full of terms like CFU, strains, prebiotics and postbiotics. This guide explains what those words mean so you can compare products with confidence.

Probiotics, prebiotics and postbiotics

• Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as certain bacteria or yeasts.
• Prebiotics are fibers and compounds that serve as food for beneficial microbes.
• Postbiotics are compounds produced when microbes ferment, such as certain short-chain fatty acids.

Some formulas focus on a single probiotic strain, while others, like Gundry MD Bio Complete 3 and BIOMA, combine all three.

Look for the strain, not just the species

A strain name has three parts: genus, species and a strain code, for example Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, the probiotic yeast found in Florastor. The strain code matters because research is usually done on specific strains.

What CFU means

CFU stands for colony-forming units, an estimate of the number of live microbes per serving. A higher number is not automatically better. The right strain and a format you will take consistently matter more.

Format and storage

• Capsules are the most common and easy to take daily.
• Drink mixes with fiber, like Unicity Balance, fit into a pre-meal routine.
• Check the label for storage directions, since some products should be kept cool and dry.

Consistency is key

Most people take probiotics daily as part of a routine. Pick a product and format that fits your day so you can stick with it.

Talk to your healthcare provider

If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition or take medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist before starting a new supplement.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for general information only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.