There is a delicate balance of bacterial flora existing within our intestinal tract. There are “good” bacteria that we want to support, and in return will help defend the proper functioning of our digestive tract. And there are the “bad” bacteria which lead to sluggish digestion, gas, bloating, poor nutrient absorption, poor elimination, and even intestinal lining deterioration. These bad bacteria need to be kept in check by the good. You can support your probiotic gut guardians with quality probiotic supplementation and plenty of prebiotic-rich fruits and vegetables!

Probiotics, or the “good” bacteria, are formed by the prebiotic fibres inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS), and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) found in fruits and vegetables. These prebiotic fibres cannot be digested in the body and are instead used by healthy bacteria to feed and grow. Healthy gut flora contributes to proper metabolism of food and subsequent nutrient absorption. When there are inadequate amounts of healthy bacteria and food is improperly digested, food particles and metabolic wastes build up and fermentation can occur. If you excessively burp, are bloated or pass gas, this could be a sign of this digestive disruption.

Taking a regular probiotic supplement helps prevent occasional constipation and/or diarrhea, improves stool form and mental wellbeing. As research continues to come out about the gut-brain connection, it is more important than ever to make gut health a priority for our mental health. By pairing a diverse, whole foods diet with real-food powered supplements, you can ensure that you are maintaining good health and happiness for now and into the future!

Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated Probiotic line provides the essentials to support a healthy microbiome and help achieve optimal health and overall wellbeing. These probiotic formulas designed by renowned neurologist and Human Microbiome expert, Dr. David Perlmutter, M.D., feature clinically validated, researched strains of bacteria, tested for acid, bile and antibiotic resistance to ensure proper delivery and adherence.

One of the distinguishing aspects of the Dr. Formulated line is that it uses organic acacia and organic potato starch for the prebiotic – the food source for the bacteria. These specific prebiotics, considered superfoods, can culture beneficial bacteria and nourish our digestive tracts. Acacia and potato starch do not cause gas, bloating and diarrhea which are side effects of other commonly found prebiotic forms, such as inulin.

Garden of Life knows that probiotic health is essential for the entire family, so the Dr. Formulated line includes shelf-stable Women’s and Men’s probiotics formulated exist with specific strains to meet the needs of women and men, as well as the chewable Organic Kids+. This is a 3-for-1 immune system and digestive support with 5 billion CFUs, 30 mg vitamin C from organic amla and 400 IU of food-based vitamin D.

The entire line of probiotics does confer digestive and immune benefits, but the Once Daily and Once Daily Ultra formulas have been specifically formulated for supporting the digestive tract and immune system. The Once Daily provides 30 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) probiotics with 14 different strains to support optimal digestion and immune health, while the Once Daily Ultra provides 90 billion CFUs with 15 different strains for those looking for a more potent formula.

As mentioned, the benefits of probiotics do extend beyond digestion and immune health, with studies showing that our microflora affects certain neurotransmitters and hormones that regulate and influence our state of mind. The Dr. Formulated Mood+ was specifically formulated with 50 billion CFUs and 16 different strains of bacteria, including clinically studied strains support a balanced mood. The formula has additional organic Ashwagandha extract, an adaptogenic herb shown to further support stress management, and organic Alaskan blueberries for antioxidant support.

Garden of Life does not believe in one-size fits all type of supplements. The Dr. Formulated Probiotic line focuses on each individual’s needs and requirements by offering a wide selection of age, gender and condition specific probiotic formulas. Individuals with food allergies and sensitivities need not worry, as the Dr. Formulated line of probiotics is unique in offering Non-GMO Project Verified, hypoallergenic, vegetarian-friendly, gluten, dairy and soy free formulas. With the use of innovative and patented packaging, Dr. Formulated Probiotics are also available in shelf-stable alternatives for added convenience and traveling.

About the Author: Garden of Life

Garden of Life is certified B Corporation and provides food and supplements that contain only clean, organic, non-GMO, and whole food ingredients that are traceable back to the seed. Whether they are making a vitamin, probiotic, or protein powder, Garden of Life always starts with real food and these foods provide their formulas the power to be their best.