Multi-Strain, Multi-Species Probiotics (July 2008)

Dr. Hoberman's picture

Submitted by Dr. Hoberman on Tue, 07/01/2008 - 00:00

Many of you already know or have heard about the benefits of probiotics. However, reviewing the various types of probiotics at your local health store will reveal quite an array of options. Some probiotics are refrigerated while others aren't; some are tablets or capsules and others are liquid. The decisions don't stop there! There's also the question as to which specific bacteria is the best for your individual symptoms.

Probiotics fall into the following categories:

  • Mono-strain - comprised of just one Lactobacillus strain
  • Multi-strain - more than one strain (type) of the bacteria
  • Multi-species - more than one species of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria

Given this information, which probiotic should you choose?

Obviously, I recommend a probiotic that is both multi-strain and multi-species.

Research studies have shown that each type of bacteria has unique qualities that can benefit intestinal function. Additionally, a combination of diverse bacteria strains can create a mutually beneficial or symbiotic relationship.

The following are some of the many ways probiotics can aid in digestion:

  • Breaking down the sugar lactose in dairy products.
  • Aiding in the digestion or fermentation of fiber and producing short chain fatty acids that can improve the function of the colon lining cells.
  • Altering the amount and type of gas that is produced; one gas that is decreased by certain probiotics is called methane, which in turn can lessen bloating and constipation
  • Varying the immune reaction in the intestines, thereby helping to lessen intestinal inflammation and to protect against intestinal viral and bacterial infections.

An article(1) published in 2004 reviewed scientific literature about humans and animals, comparing the "functionality and efficacy" of mono-strain, multi-strain and multi-species probiotics. The conclusion determined that multi-strain, multi-species probiotics were superior in treating intestinal infections.

Another study(2) published in April 2008 compared three different probiotic bacteria in their ability to stop inflammation in the intestinal lining. The conclusion stated each probiotic bacteria has a specific and different mechanism to suppress inflammation. This is important when choosing a probiotic for someone with Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease; it's better to choose a probiotic that contains more than one organism.
 
The take home message is when deciding on a probiotic, chose one that contains several different strains and species…like EndoMune.

Thank you for your interest in EndoMune.

Eat healthy, exercise and live well!
Dr. Hoberman

 

1) Internatl J of Food Microbiol 2004; (96): 219-233
2) World J Gastroenterol 2008; 14(13): 2029-2036