top of page
Working at home

How to Choose the Best Probiotic for You

Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria and yeast, that can positively influence the balance of bacteria in your digestive system and offer various health benefits. In recent years, their potential benefits for women's health—particularly in gynecological conditions—have gained attention.


Benefits of Probiotics for Women

Probiotics have long been known to support gut health, but they are now being explored for their impact on women's reproductive health. Here are some of the potential benefits:


1. Treating Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

The vaginal microbiome is primarily composed of Lactobacillus bacteria, which help maintain a slightly acidic environment that protects against harmful bacteria. In people with BV, the balance of bacteria in the vagina shifts. Research shows that probiotics can help restore this balance and may be as effective as antibiotics in treating BV.


2. Preventing Yeast Infections

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), a common yeast infection, occurs when the fungus Candida grows excessively in the vagina. Some studies suggest that Lactobacillus probiotics may help prevent and treat yeast infections, although more human studies are needed to confirm these findings.


3. Managing Vulvovaginal Atrophy (VVA)

VVA, common during menopause, involves the thinning of the vaginal lining. A combination of estriol, an estrogen hormone, and Lactobacilli probiotics may help manage VVA by supporting the vaginal lining and restoring the balance of healthy bacteria.


4. Alleviating Period Pain

Probiotics may help reduce the need for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in women with painful periods. Some research suggests that probiotics may also improve mental health during menstruation, although more studies are needed.


Food Sources of Probiotics

Probiotics can be found in fermented foods, but not all fermented foods are considered probiotic. Yogurt and kefir, for example, contain well-studied strains of bacteria, such as *Lactobacillus bulgaricus* and *Streptococcus thermophilus*, which can survive in the gut. Other fermented foods, like cheese, kimchi, and kombucha, may also offer health benefits, but their probiotic effects are less established.


How to Choose a Probiotic Supplement

When selecting a probiotic, consider the following:

- Strain specificity: Probiotics are classified by genus, species, and strain. Different strains serve different purposes. For example, *Lactobacillus rhamnosus* HN001 is often recommended for vaginal health, while other strains target gut health or immune function.

- Colony-forming units (CFU): This number indicates how many live microorganisms are in each dose. Most supplements contain 1 to 10 billion CFU per dose, but more isn't always better. Make sure the CFU count reflects the number of live cells at the end of the supplement's shelf life.

- Supplement form: Probiotics come in capsules, powders, and liquids. Choose the form that fits best into your routine and budget.

- Quality: Since supplements aren’t strictly regulated, look for products certified by third-party organisations like U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP) or NSF International to ensure quality and safety.


Side Effects and Considerations

For most healthy individuals, probiotics are safe, and side effects, such as mild gastrointestinal issues, are temporary. However, for people with weakened immune systems, probiotics may cause infections. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking probiotics, especially if you have an existing health condition.


A Quick Review

Probiotics, often associated with gut health, may also offer benefits for women's gynecological health. Whether from food or supplements, choosing the right probiotic for your specific needs is key. For best results, seek guidance from a healthcare professional knowledgeable about probiotics.


Note: Originally Published By Johna Burdeos, RD, https://www.health.com. Medically reviewed by Emily Dashiell, ND



2 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page