Health
Unlock the Secret to Gut Health: Doctor Reveals Must-Have Probiotic Features

Understanding the importance of gut health is crucial for overall well-being, as the gut is central to the immune system and mental health. Factors like stress, poor dietary choices, and certain medications can disrupt the balance of the gut microbiome, but probiotics offer a beneficial solution to maintain gut health. Naturopathic doctor Janine Bowring, MD, highlights three essential components that every high-quality probiotic should possess.
The first key element Bowring mentions is the inclusion of specific strains that can thrive in the small intestine. “This strain is known to give yogurt its sour taste,” she explains, emphasizing its role in maintaining acidity and eliminating harmful bacteria in the microbiome. This is vital because stomach acid, while essential for digestion, can cause discomfort if present in excess. As Healthline notes, “Your stomach’s job is to help digest the food you eat. One way that it does this is through the use of stomach acid, also known as gastric acid.” Probiotics, alongside a balanced diet, help manage stomach acid levels effectively.
Next, Bowring recommends opting for probiotics containing Bifidobacterium bifidum. This strain not only aids digestion but also bolsters immunity by reducing inflammation and signaling the presence of infections to white blood cells. “I love this strain,” Bowring states, “Make sure that it’s been tested to survive your hydrochloric acid in your stomach [so it can] actually get to the large intestine where it needs to go.” Research supports its benefits in alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), making it a valuable component of a probiotic.
Lastly, a high-quality probiotic should include a prebiotic, such as fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which serve as nourishment for probiotics. “One of my favorites is called FOS, fructooligosaccharides. It’s actually food for those probiotics, so that they have that food to grow and propagate on their own,” Bowring explains. FOS are naturally found in foods like onion, chicory, garlic, and bananas, and they play a protective role against toxic bacteria that can cause food poisoning.
Incorporating these elements into a probiotic regimen can significantly enhance gut health. Probiotics and prebiotics work together to support the digestive system, with probiotics providing beneficial microorganisms and prebiotics fostering their growth. By choosing a probiotic that includes these three components, individuals can maintain a healthy gut and, consequently, overall well-being.
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