Which probiotic strain is best for me?
As we discover that everyone has an enteric (gut) type, it is becoming increasingly important to shift away from broad-spectrum probiotics because these may contain strains that aren’t welcome in our particular gut environment.
Not only that, but specific strains can support particular health goals.
This is by no means a comprehensive list, but it outlines a few of the beneficial probiotic strains that can help you in your wellness journey.
SPECIFIC PROBIOTIC STRAINS AND ACTIONS
Saccharomyces boulardii helps the gut to ward off pathogenic bacteria and is antibiotic resistant, thus a good strain to use if you are needing to take antibiotics.
Lactobacillus helveticus boosts mood and helps the nervous system adapt to stress.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a profound blood sugar balancer and helps reduce the body’s tendency towards insulin resistance. It can be supportive to type 2 diabetics and Parkinson’s Disease patients.
Lactobacillus reuteri supports the body’s innate capacity to grow its own healthy colonies of beneficial gut flora and thus promotes a healthy immune response as well.
Lactobacillus plantarum is abundant in lacto-fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi. It lines the intestinal wall and keeps pathogens and undigested food from leaking into the blood stream.
Streptococcus salivarius is excellent for preventing upper respiratory infections and can be supportive during cold and flu season. It colonizes everyone’s mouth, regardless of enteric type.
Bifidobacterium longum supports healthy fat metabolism and has been shown to help balance cholesterol.
Bifidobacterium bifidum and lactobacillus paracasei are excellent supports for liver and skin health.
Bifidobacterium lactis is excellent for weight management and blood glucose balance.
REFERENCES
To learn more, you can reference these studies.