“All gut microbiomes are not made the same,” says functional-medicine nutritionist Katie Morra, MS, RD, IFMCP. “They’re just like a fingerprint. Everyone has their own gut profile, so how can we all need the same probiotic blend?”
Certain probiotic strains also seem to be more beneficial for certain conditions. Fundamental essentials three main species of probiotics that are currently available in the United States:
- Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium-based probiotics are the best-studied. They produce lactic acid and may especially support those with IBS and depression.
L. acidophilus and B. longum are some of the most common species found in probiotics. - Saccharomyces boulardii is actually a yeast, not a bacteria. Morra calls it a “yeast-fighting yeast.” Research suggests
S. boulardii may mitigate the harmful side effects of antibiotics and help keep pathogens, such as Clostridium difficile and Helicobacter pylori, under control. - Bacillus, also known as a spore-forming or soil-based organism (SBO), might help replace the bacteria that’s gone missing from our guts because of our reduced contact with soil. These include Bacillus coagulans, subtilis, and clausii. Some experts worry that SBOs may dominate other gut bacteria, especially in people who are immune-compromised; other practitioners, like Ruscio, believe they’re not only safe but essential, citing 20 numerous studies that support their use. (For additional on the safety of SBOs, see “Are soil-based probiotics safe?” below.)
Ruscio recommends a pro-biotic supplement or regimen which contains all three categories for maximum benefit, noting that they each support the gut inside a slightly different way. “It’s quicker to balance the gut and find out a resolution of symptoms using the complete support provided by the 3 probiotic categories.”
To test your tolerance of three types of probiotics, start by taking one of each type a few days apart. In the event that any single probiotic category creates constipation, diarrhea, gas, or bloating that lasts longer than a few days, quit taking it and continue taking the other two.