From the Guidelines
For daily probiotic use, a dose containing 1-10 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) is generally recommended for adults. This recommendation is based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the importance of clearly stating the daily dose and duration for each probiotic strain 1. When selecting a probiotic supplement, it is essential to choose a product that provides a specific strain or blend of strains, as different strains may have varying effects on different health conditions.
Some key points to consider when taking probiotics include:
- Starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing as needed
- Taking the probiotic supplement consistently each day, preferably with a meal to improve survival through stomach acid
- Choosing a product that provides a specific strain or blend of strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, or Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
- Being aware that some strains may be more effective for specific health conditions, such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea or irritable bowel syndrome
It is also important to note that while probiotics may be beneficial for certain health conditions, the evidence is not always strong, and more research is needed to fully understand their effects 1. Therefore, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations on probiotic use. Additionally, probiotics should be used in conjunction with other therapies, such as dietary changes and exercise, to achieve optimal benefits for overall health and well-being.
From the Research
Recommended Daily Dose of Probiotics
The recommended daily dose of probiotics for therapeutic use varies depending on the specific strain and condition being treated.
- A study on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) found that a dose of 1 × 10^9 CFU/day of Bifidobacterium bifidum for 4 weeks was effective in improving symptoms 2.
- Another study on IBS found that a dose of 10^9 CFU/day or above was effective in relieving symptoms, with a significant benefit seen at 4 weeks 3.
- A study on the prevention of pediatric antibiotic-associated diarrhea found that a high dose of probiotics (≥ 5 billion CFU per day) was more effective than a low dose (< 5 billion CFU per day) in preventing diarrhea 4.
- A study on functional bowel disorders found that a dose of 2 × 10^11 CFU/day of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 for 8 weeks was effective in improving symptoms of bloating 5.
Effective Probiotic Strains
Some effective probiotic strains for therapeutic use include:
- Bifidobacterium bifidum 2, 3
- Lactobacillus acidophilus 2, 6, 5
- Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 5
- Saccharomyces boulardii 4
Duration of Treatment
The duration of treatment with probiotics can vary depending on the condition being treated.