What To Look For When | Buying A Probiotic

To buy a high-quality probiotic, look for (genus, species, and a specific alphanumeric strain code), a CFU count guaranteed through the expiration date , and third-party certification for purity and potency . Because probiotics are regulated as dietary supplements, manufacturers are not required to prove safety or efficacy before selling them, making independent verification and reputable branding essential. 1. Strain Specificity: The "Full Name" Rule

A "proper" probiotic label must list three names for each organism. If a product only lists the genus and species (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus ), it lacks the transparency needed to verify clinical benefits. The group name (e.g., Lactobacillus ). Species: The specific type (e.g., rhamnosus ).

CFUs indicate the number of live, active microorganisms per dose. A Pharmacist's Guide to Choosing the Right Probiotic

Specific health benefits are linked to specific strains. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is well-studied for diarrhea and gut health, while other strains of the same species may not have the same effect. 2. Potency and CFU (Colony-Forming Units)

The alphanumeric code that identifies the specific variant (e.g., GG ).