Gut Health: Why Targeted Probiotics Are Key to Feeling Your Best

Why Targeted Probiotics Are Key to Feeling Your Best

Your gut does more than digest food. Often touted as “the second brain”, your gut influences immunity, energy, and even your mental stat. At the heart of this connection is your microbiome: a thriving community of bacteria that, when balanced, helps you feel your best. If you’re looking to support your gut health with probiotics, it’s well worth investigating what type you need. Targeted strains of probiotics can restore balance of the good gut bugs, and help you feel your best.

Probiotic Strains That Can Transform Your Gut Health

Different probiotic strains offer different benefits – here are some of our go-tos:

Saccharomyces boulardii

This beneficial yeast isn’t a typical bacteria-based probiotic, but it plays a vital role in gut health. Saccharomyces boulardii supports digestive balance by combating harmful pathogens, calming inflammation, and restoring microbiome health after antibiotics or illness. It’s particularly effective for reducing diarrhea (great if you’re travelling) and supporting a healthy gut barrier.

Bacillus Subtilis

This spore-forming bacteria is resilient enough to survive harsh stomach acids and make it to your intestines, where it supports digestive function, promotes healthy bacteria growth, and strengthens your immune system. Bacillus subtilis is ideal for maintaining balance in the microbiome, particularly during or after periods of stress on the gut.
  • Best for: Gut resilience, immune support, and balancing the microbiome.
  • Found in: MegaSporeBiotic and HU58

Bifidobacterium Longum & Lactobacillus Plantarum

Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus plantarum are powerhouse probiotic strains celebrated for their ability to support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and calm inflammation. Together, they play a crucial role in promoting a balanced gut microbiome and addressing sensitivities.

Bifidobacterium longum helps strengthen the gut lining, and is particularly beneficial for those with histamine sensitivity, as it does not contribute to histamine production. This makes it ideal if you’re prone to digestive discomfort or inflammatory-type responses.

Lactobacillus plantarum is valued for its ability to regulate digestion, reduce bloating, and ease discomfort from food sensitivities. It also helps maintain a balanced gut environment and promotes gut barrier integrity, making it a versatile strain for overall gut health.

  • Best for: Reducing bloating, supporting digestion, histamine-sensitive individuals and addressing food sensitivities.
  • Found in: ProBiota HistaminX

How to Maximise the Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics work best when paired with certain lifestyle habits. Here’s how you can support a balanced microbiome:
  1. Feed the good bacteria: Include prebiotic-rich foods like asparagus, garlic, onions, and bananas to nourish your microbiome.
  2. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for gut health and digestion. Drink plenty of water and add a mineral-based electrolyte to enhance your hydration and replenish essential trace minerals.
  3. Be consistent: Probiotics need time to work, so take them daily and give your body a few weeks to adjust.

A Balanced Gut for a Healthier You

Understanding how specific probiotic strains support your gut helps you to make more tailored decisions to improve your wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to reduce inflammation, restore balance after antibiotics, or ease digestive discomfort, there’s a strain suited to your needs. Explore the options available through 5EW to find the right fit for your health journey.
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5th Element Wellness Team

Our team of holistic coaches have a background spanning sports science, biomechanics, allied health, functional nutrition, breathwork, yoga and more! We love sharing bite sized information that demystifies the health and wellness industry, so you can easily add more well-being to your routine.
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