Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, offer health benefits to the host.
These microorganisms, primarily bacteria, are identified by their genus, species, subspecies (if applicable), and an alphanumeric classification corresponding to the strain, each with unique properties.
| Gender | Species | Subspecies | Strain designation |
| Lactiplantibacillus | plantarum | plantarum | UALP-05TM (NCIMB 30432 |
| Lacticaseibacillus | rhamnosus | ninguna | (DSM 33560) |
Accurate identification of probiotic strains is crucial to ensure that the most effective and health-specific strains are used.
How do probiotics work?
Probiotics exert their main action by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the microbiota, decreasing the population of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Some of the mechanisms they perform to achieve this include:
- Digestion of food and competition with pathogens for nutrients
- Modification of local pH to create an unfavorable local environment for pathogens
- Production of bacteriocins that inhibit the growth of pathogens
- Induction of tolerance to food antigens
- Improvement of intestinal barrier function
- Competition for the adhesion of pathogens
Which probiotic is best for me?
Here are some factors you can consider when choosing the best product for you:
- Determine your specific health goals: It is essential to define the purpose for which you are looking for a probiotic, as different strains offer different benefits. Common applications include:
- Prevention and treatment of acute diarrhea: Studies have shown that the use of certain probiotic strains can reduce the duration of diarrheal episodes thanks to the production of lactic acid in the large intestine by these strains, thus modifying the pH to levels restrictive for the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Antibiotic-associated diarrhea: This adverse effect can affect 1 in 5 people during or after treatment with antibiotics. Certain combinations of strains (or species) contribute to the balance and repopulation of the intestinal microbiota after treatment with antibiotics, in turn decreasing the incidence of diarrhea under treatment with antibiotics.
- Constipation: Certain probiotic strains can support intestinal transit and relieve constipation by improving the balance of the microbiota and increasing bowel regularity.
- Identify genus, species and strain: Once the objective for which the product could be helpful has been determined, it is important to identify which probiotic has the clinical benefits we are looking for, since each probiotic strain has unique properties, with specific effects on the digestive, immune and even neurological systems. It is important to ensure that the product you choose clearly mentions the genus, species and strain on its label, following the appropriate scientific nomenclature.
- Check the amount of living organisms (CFU): Colony Forming Units (CFU) indicate the amount of viable bacteria present in the probiotic at the end of its shelf life. For proven clinical benefits, a minimum dose of 1 billion CFU (109 CFU) per day is recommended.
- Probiotic stability and viability: The effectiveness of a probiotic depends not only on the strain and dosage, but also on its ability to survive the conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly stomach acid. Some products use gastro-resistant capsules to ensure that the bacteria reach the intestine intact. It is essential to follow the product’s storage instructions to maintain the viability of the microorganisms.
- Check additional ingredients and dietary compatibility: Before purchasing a probiotic, check its ingredient list to ensure that it does not contain allergens or other components that may interfere with your diet or dietary restrictions. For example, some products may contain gluten, lactose or soy, which can be problematic for people with intolerances or allergies.
Selecting the right probiotic requires careful evaluation of your health goals, the correct dosage of live microorganisms (CFU), the quality and stability of the product, and its compatibility with your diet and medical condition. Consulting with a physician or pharmacist will help you make an informed decision, ensuring that the chosen probiotic is the most beneficial for you. By incorporating the right probiotic into your daily routine, you can significantly improve both your digestive health and overall well-being.
Sources
World Gastroenterology Organisation. (2017). Guías de práctica clínica sobre probióticos y prebióticos. Recuperado de https://www.worldgastroenterology.org/UserFiles/file/guidelines/probiotics-and-prebiotics-spanish-2017.pdf
Sociedad Española de Medicina Interna. (2024). Anales de microbiota
