Can you have too much of a good thing?
When it comes to probiotics, can you have too much of a good thing? Inside each of us, there are about one hundred trillion bacteria, most of which live in the gut. That's 10 times the number of cells in our body! Research shows that good bacteria play a key role in the digestive system by improving gastrointestinal functions and immunity, helping to regulate hormone balance, protecting us against foodborne illnesses like food poisoning, controlling the proliferation of bad bacteria and fungi, protecting us against the development of allergies, and promoting vitamin production and nutrient absorption. Probiotics are like an army in your gut that works very hard to protect your health.
We all naturally have a balance of "good" and "bad" bacteria in our gut. Generally, good bacteria far outweigh bacteria that can cause problems. There are several health and lifestyle factors that can create an imbalanced state called dysbiosis:
- Overuse of broad-spectrum antibiotics
- Use of steroids, anti-inflammatories, antacids, and oral contraceptives
- A diet rich in refined carbohydrates
- Aging
- Stress
Using a probiotic
The good news is that taking a powerful probiotic daily can ensure that your gut remains balanced and your health stays on track. Not all probiotics are created equal. Recent research has revealed that different strains of bacteria are unique in their effects on the body and their place of work in the digestive tract. Some offer natural defense against pathogens, while others can help reduce inflammation. There are two main known bacterial strains: lactobacilli for the small intestine and bifidobacteria for the colon. It is important to choose a probiotic formula containing multiple strains with plenty of lactobacilli for the small intestine and bifidobacteria for the colon.
Renew Life's Ultimate Flora Probiotic® delivers 100 billion beneficial bacteria to the intestines. It contains 10 strains with a potency of 50 billion lactobacilli and 50 billion bifidobacteria (amounts rarely seen in formulas due to cost). While 100 billion bacteria per capsule may seem like a lot, remember that there are 100 trillion bacteria in the body. Renew Life's Ultimate Flora Probiotic is ideal for people suffering from chronic digestive issues, who tend to get sick often, or those who are using or have used antibiotics, to help replenish gut flora. The capsules have an enteric coating to ensure safe delivery beyond the hostile environment of the stomach. This way, you can take them anytime, and they will go where they need to go. When it comes to probiotics, potency is only one part of the equation. You won't necessarily get the same results by taking two 50 billion probiotic capsules unless the formula is identical. Each has its unique combination of bacteria. That's why one probiotic might work very well for you and not as well for your friend. That's why it's so important to take a product with multiple strains. Renew Life's Ultimate Flora Probiotic offers the highest potency allowed in Canada in a protected capsule and an award-winning formula. It's the obvious choice for those looking for the ultimate in probiotic potency.