What variations of probiotics exist?

Live beneficial microbes that support digestion, regularity, and immune balance. Effects depend on the specific strain. It comes in 5 forms, and they aren't all the same. Here's how they differ.

For education only. What's right for you depends on your health and your medications, so check with your provider before you start or switch. Book a consult

Our top pick

The traceable one

Strain-specific label (e.g. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG)

Names the exact strain, so you can match it to published research.

Good for: Everyday use

Also consider
Gas & bloating: the antibiotic buddy (Saccharomyces boulardii)
Easy to take: the tough one (Spore-based (Bacillus) probiotics)

Every form, in plain words

Our top pick

The traceable one

Strain-specific label (e.g. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG)

Names the exact strain, so you can match it to published research.

Good for: Everyday use

Also good

The antibiotic buddy

Saccharomyces boulardii

A helpful yeast that survives antibiotics. Well studied for diarrhea that comes with antibiotics.

Good for: Gas & bloating

Also good

The tough one

Spore-based (Bacillus) probiotics

Keeps without refrigeration and survives stomach acid.

Good for: Easy to take

Usually skip

Counted too early (CFU listed 'at time of manufacture' only)The count can drop over time. You want one that's guaranteed until the expiration date.
The mystery mix (Huge multi-strain blends without strain IDs)More strains isn't automatically better, and there's no way to check the research.

Spotting a good one on the shelf

Look for

Look for 'Strain-specific label' on the label (the traceable one)

Watch out for

Lists only the general name, with no strain ID (the letters and numbers after the name)
The live count (CFU) is only guaranteed 'at manufacture'
Unclear storage instructions (fridge or shelf)

Check with your provider first if…

You have a weakened immune system, a central IV line, or a serious illness
You might have SIBO (an overgrowth of gut bacteria), since some probiotics can make bloating worse
You take antifungal medicine (this matters for S. boulardii, which is a yeast)

In Dr. Lesher's store

14 products in Dr. Lesher's dispensary have probiotics. Here's which form, where the label says.

Check with your provider before taking any of these, especially if you're pregnant or take medications.