probiotics?

Hi Kelly,
I was reading about this last week but I have to warn you that there is so much literature out there that it's a little overwhelming. Unfortunately, I haven't found a single meta-analysis that would help to synthesize the information into a usable/general format. I attached one article that also has links to a dozen others that might interest you. In my experience as a nurse, we tend to use probiotics to replace bacteria that is known to be killed by specific antibiotics. Since I'm not on any antibiotics I really wasn't sure what would be best. I eat yogurt regularly and even have kefir occasionally so I know I get some into my diet already. I chose to purchase a mixed formula that had probiotics of multiple strains. I'm using one called "Ultimate Probiotic 12/12 Formula" by Natural Factors for about $18. Flora-Q is another well-known brand which is frequently given to patients taking long-tern antibiotics or who have issues with diarrhea or irritable bowels. Again, it's not cheap! (twice the cost of the one I take) Personally, I've found that I have decreased gas and less constipation. I know of patients who have had improvement in irritable bowel symptoms, psoriasis, and even allergies. So, I tend to be a fan because it has helped me and others I know. This is of course not scientific but it's my experience. Hope this helps.

Link to article(s):

http://www.ajcn.org/content/73/2/430S.short

I haven't had my surgery yet but I have gotten a probiotic from a naturopathic doctor called MindLinx.  It comes in either capsules or a powder you can mix with your foods and it is GOOD stuff.  You can purchase it through Pure Formulas but until it cools down a little more, you should request the shipping to be done with dry ice.  That will be an option when you get to the check out.  After you get it, it should ideally be kept refrigerated as well.  It is a bit expensive but I think it has been worth it.  I originally used it for my son who has extensive special needs issues. 

ps....

This research study used, "Puritan’s Pride® probiotic supplement with each pill containing 2.4 billion live cells of Lactobacillus species" and seemed to have good results.

Here's the link:

http://www.springerlink.com.mutex.gmu.edu/content/m21j21645701k911/fulltext.html

 Ok I took my first pill 2 hours ago and I just went to the bathroom and I've been constipated for almost a week.. coincidence? not sure !! totally awesome if they work!

I like and use the Vitamin shoppe brand.   They have multiple strains and big count (13 billions)

I keep mine in a fridge.  Prolongs the life of the bacteria.

I am pre-surgery. I have taken pro-biotics for a year now and they really work. i havent been to the store in a month because i just slacked off taking them and there is a huge difference. im more bloated and constipated. I usually get mine at walgreens. the generic Walgreens brand but there are many there. My Chiropractor actual turned me on to them. He said they help with digestion and intestional stuff...

When I was having that problem I bought a bunch of them...Mostly Walmart...but then I went to high end and bought really expensive one that was NATURAL.  Nothing really changed but it's worth a try..I'm going to look and see what I have because alas I still have more!  I can't find but I think it started with a D.  I do have the expensive one from Renew Life Critical Life Flora in my frig.  Good Luck Patty

Our gastroenterologist recommended them for dh he has Chron's he recommended Culturelle years ago (can be found at walmart, drug store, etc). He has recently taken florestor and flora q due to the medications he was on.

When I first had surgery I was taking cuturelle but since I'm not taking it for antibiotic use and the brands I mentioned are all expensive I have been switching which one I buy each time I buy it- I find it helps me best with the constipation to switch them around. I have taken Align, Phillips colon health and another one Sam's club sells. If I am on antibiotics or have a stomach bug then I would make sure to take one of the pricery ones with more bacteria.

2 years ago my husband I were going to the Dominican Republic for vacation and I was worried about having stomach issues so I started taking Acidophilus and it worked so well we've continued taking it!