To separate fact from fiction, we asked Brooklyn–based dietitian Maddie Pasquariello, MS, RDN to share the key facts about probiotics to know before you buy to ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck.
Myth #1: Any probiotic will work for anyone
The reality: Not all probiotic supplements offer the same benefits.
Not all probiotic supplements are created equal. Different strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium offer unique benefits, targeting specific health concerns. It’s crucial to match the right probiotic with your specific health goals to maximize its potential benefits.
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While probiotics can be an effective, worthy part of your wellness regimen, it pays to get clear about your specific goals, investigate the strain(s) and counts demonstrated to achieve said goals, and incorporate any supplements into a healthy diet. Remember to consult a healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your routine.
Deep dives, fact-checks, and meticulous label-readings aside, she suggests prioritizing brands that are third-party tested, tested for contaminants like pesticide and herbicides, and vegan-friendly, as well as have a certificate of analysis (COA) available for every product.
Well+Good articles reference scientific, reliable, recent, robust studies to back up the information we share. You can trust us along your wellness journey.
- Kothari, Damini et al. “Probiotic supplements might not be universally-effective and safe: A review.” Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie vol. 111 (2019): 537-547. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2018.12.104
