Decoding Probiotics

Probiotics play a huge role in supporting women’s microbiomes and can influence everything from hormones and mood to bones, digestion, immunity, oral and even vaginal health.

Deep diving into the world of probiotics this week, I found out probiotics are far more specific than most people realise. So, let’s bust a few myths and unpack what really matters when it comes to choosing the right probiotic.

Myth #1 – Probiotics recolonise the gut
Truth – They’re just passing through (but still doing great work)

A common belief is that probiotics move in and start rebuilding the microbiome. But that’s not actually how they work. Most probiotic strains don’t stay in the body. Instead, they pass through and interact with your cells, triggering positive healing responses along the way.

This is one reason I always like to support and “prep” the gut, oral or vaginal microbiome before throwing in probiotics, so they can do their job effectively while they’re there.

Myth #2 – Fridge-stored probiotics are better
Truth – Not necessarily

You’ve probably heard someone say, “I only buy probiotics that live in the fridge”. While this may have been true years ago, new research shows it’s less about the temperature and more about keeping them dry.

The fridge is dry, yes, but so is your pantry. What’s more important is that the probiotics are stored away from moisture, not necessarily in the cold.

Myth #3 – Just grab a multi-strain probiotic and you’re sorted
Truth – Probiotics are like medicine: specific strains for specific jobs

Asking for “a probiotic” is kind of like walking into a pharmacy and asking for “some medicine.” There are thousands of probiotic strains and each one has a specific job. To really get the benefit, you need the right strain for the right purpose.

Let’s break it down:

• Genus: e.g., Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium

• Species: e.g., rhamnosus, casei, infantis, breve

• Strain: e.g., GG, GR-1, HN001

For example:

• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG is commonly used for IBS and diarrhoea.

• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GR-1 is ideal for supporting vaginal health and preventing UTIs.

That’s why choosing a multi-strain probiotic isn’t always better. Targeted probiotic strains can be one of the one of the easiest ways to support your specific health concern.

Some key strains for women’s health you might want to know:

·       L. rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus crispatus are excellent for preventing bacterial vaginosis (BV) and urinary tract infections (UTIs).

·       Lactobacillus fermentum LF10 and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA02 have been shown to be helpful in reducing the recurrence of vaginal thrush.

·       L. rhamnosus HN001is effective in supporting mood, anxiety and help reduce the risk of gestational diabetes during and after pregnancy.

·       Lactobacillus plantarum 229v has been shown to boost iron absorption by up to 23%.

If all of this feels a little overwhelming, don’t worry that is where working with a naturopath can help. By understanding your body, symptoms and health goals, we can help decide what is best suited for your current needs.

If you would like to talk further about probiotics or any other health concerns, please get in contact with me. I would love to hear from you!