How to Pick Your Probiotic

There are varying opinions on whether or not probiotics should be rotated. Some practitioners prefer to rotate probiotics with some patients while others may not. However, one thing is certain—the needs and timing of probiotic supplementation may vary considerably based on the individual, depending on the types of foods they eat, their age, activity levels, etc.

We know that as we get older our microbiome can become less diverse. We lose beneficial microbes that help break down food and keep our gut intact, and gain pathogens. Alternating or rotating different multi-strain products can achieve a greater diversity because a different set of strains over time can enhance the many benefits of probiotics like nourishing the gut lining.

Transformation’s founder Dr. DicQie Fuller was one of the first in the industry to start using probiotic supplements. At the time, there were just a few strains to be found for human consumption. The oldest and most studied were Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium longum. These strains are still used in our formulas to this day due to their longstanding clinical efficacy and supported research.

Today we have four unique formulas that can be implemented into a healthy rotation of “good bugs” for the microbiome. These can can be rotated throughout the year to ensure your clients are providing the microbiome a lush environment of good bacteria.

The Genesis of Good Health®

Dr. Fuller’s first probiotic supplement and part of her original Genesis of Good Health® product line, Plantadophilus remains one of our most popular options. It’s called “Plant”-adophilus because it’s the single bacterium Lactobacillus plantarum, which has been studied in ages 4 and up and integrates perfectly into our Thrive for Kids program alongside our Zymes for Kidz™ products.

The plant based, vegetarian friendly L. plantarum is well tolerated, time tested, antibiotic resistant, survives the pH of the stomach with ease, and is one of the most versatile probiotics. That’s why it’s considered a “starter” due to its ability to support the growth of other good bacteria within the gut promoting normal digestive health. It has the ability to help preserve critical nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants and has shown the rare ability to produce L. lysine, a beneficial amino acid. This is a great formula for those who are sensitive and are unable to tolerate “pre”-biotics.

Professional Protocol™

The next formula that can be brought into probiotic rotation is our Professional Protocol™ Probiotic. It is a comprehensive base of specific bacteria that work together synergistically to support a healthy digestive tract.* One capsule includes six strains and offers over 5 billion cfu. A balanced product for intestinal bacteria, these base strains working together is more important than the actual total number of cfu. It is well tolerated and provides excellent clinical outcomes.

Some unique aspects of this formula is the whey/lactoferrin which can be confusing for some. This ingredient is key in this formula’s immune support ability.* Although the “lacto”-ferrin is derived from milk, it actually supports the breakdown of lactose and is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant.* This formula also includes a prebiotic. Jerusalem artichoke was selected for this formula as it is a whole food form of inulin, an FOS prebiotic that serves as food for probiotics.

Maximum Strength Formula

The next formula that can be considered in probiotic rotation is Probiotic 42.5. This is our maximum strength Professional Protocol™ formula with ten different strains of bacillus, lactobacillus, and bifidobacterium microorganisms totaling 42.917 billion cfu of activity per capsule. In addition to the L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, B. coagulans, B. longum, L. salivarius, and L. casei in Probiotic, our Probiotic 42.5 also includes B. bifidum, B. infantis, L. bulgaricus, and L. rhamnosus.

Our most comprehensive option, this is an ideal formula to consider during times of increased need or after extensive antibiotic use. The strains in this formula were selected to enhance the balance of friendly bacteria to support intestinal health and encourage timely elimination thereby supporting overall health.*

Our Newest Option

And finally, our last formula to include in probiotic rotation is our newest formula, Transbiotic™. This product was formulated with an innovative prebiotic in the form of bacteriophages that was developed to support the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut through a mechanism that is neither fiber nor starch based. The unique blend of bacteriophages works synergistically with probiotic strains to achieve their effects.

Another standout to this probiotic formula is that it is spore based with the strain of focus being Bacillus subtilis, an endospore forming bacteria which can withstand extreme temperatures and environments. The hardiness of the Bacillus subtilis attributes to a longer shelf life, no need for refrigeration, and lower cfu count to reach maximum effectiveness.

The bottom line? Each patient’s microbiome is different and has different needs. There is no doubt that taking a multi-strain probiotic has its benefits. Most strains have been demonstrated to colonize in the gut for up to a few weeks, during which time they improve the intestinal environment and encourage the recovery of our natural gut flora. They are transient, so continuous supplementation is necessary to maintain a healthy ratio of good and bad bugs.

If a patient’s response to one blend of probiotic is lackluster and does not show the benefits you hoped for, exposing them to different probiotic blends over time on a rotational basis can gradually expand diversity and help move the needle toward microbiome health and overall GI health.

While supplies last through November 3, 2024, save 20% on 90-capsule bottles of Plantadophilus and 30-capsule and 60-capsule bottles of Probiotic 42.5 when using this coupon code. Cannot be combined with other offers.