Probiotics For Candida, Leaky Gut, & IBS

Probiotics For IBS, Candida & More

What Are Probiotics?

Did you know that our skin and digestive systems are home to about 2,000 different types of bacteria? And while we tend to think of bacteria as harmful germs, that isn’t the case for all bacteria. Indeed, probiotic bacteria are extraordinarily beneficial and required to support the body’s myriad functions. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), probiotics are “live microorganisms (in most cases, bacteria, but also fungi (including yeasts,) viruses, and Protozoa) that are similar to the beneficial microorganisms naturally found in the human gut.” Let's explore probiotics for IBS, leaky gut & candida.

Who Needs Probiotics?

Science has long established that probiotics are essential for proper digestive health, strong immune function, healthy mood balance and skin health, and the prevention of allergies. They are, however, especially critical for individuals with Candida, Leaky Gut, and IBS since they promote a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut and help modulate the immune system. However, the specific strains of probiotics that may be helpful to each condition can vary from person to person since no two microbiomes are the same (in fact, even identical twins do not have identical gut microbial populations). Moreover, it's important to understand that probiotic strains have a certain degree of organ/tissue specificity – meaning that not all probiotic strains offer the same benefits to the same organs and tissues. This is why choosing a probiotic formula with strains explicitly targeted to the health condition or physical/mental symptoms you want to address is vital to successful supplementation. 

Probiotic Strains For IBS, Candida & Leaky Gut

For candida overgrowth, certain strains of probiotics, such as Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, have been studied for their ability to reduce candida colonization and promote a healthy balance of gut flora. It's worth noting, however, that effectively addressing candida overgrowth requires a comprehensive approach that includes dietary changes and lifestyle modifications. Therefore, working with a healthcare practitioner who can guide you through the appropriate treatment plan is important.

In the case of leaky gut, specific Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains have shown great potential in improving gut barrier function and reducing intestinal permeability, which are hallmarks of leaky gut syndrome. More specifically, some of the strains that have been studied include Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium infantis. Indeed, these strains have been shown to help leaky gut by maintaining normal mucosal function and protecting the lining from harmful factors such as toxins, infections, and allergens. They have also been shown to strengthen epithelial junctions, thus preventing substances from leaking in or out inappropriately.

Strains that have shown promise in managing symptoms of IBS include Saccharomyces boulardii, Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, Bifidobacterium infantis 35624, Bacillus coagulans Unique IS-2, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, and Lactobacillus plantarum Lp299v. While no strain has been shown to heal IBS per se, many have shown significant benefits by slowing down the transit time of the colon, reducing the number of bowel movements per day, improving stool consistency, and improving overall symptoms and quality of life.

Benefits Of Probiotics For IBS

• Boost Immune Function
• Enhance Nutrient Absorption
• Help Rebalance The Intestinal Microbiota
• Improve digestive health
• Reduce the Risk of Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea

Final Thoughts On Probiotics For IBS, Candida & Leaky Gut

Probiotics are widely available as dietary supplements and sold in capsules, powders, liquids, and chewable forms. They come in a wide variety of strains and potencies and, more often than not, feature a blend of different strains of live microorganisms as opposed to just a single strain. 

Beyond microbial strains, an effective probiotic supplement should also provide a minimum of 1 billion CFUs (colony-forming units or viable cells) per dose, with adult doses typically ranging between 1 billion and 100 billion CFUs. Higher doses are usually called for in the case of Candida, Leaky Gut, and IBS. When making your selection, choose a probiotic supplement that aligns with your specific goals or health concerns. If you aren't sure what product may be right for you, speak with a qualified healthcare practitioner for case-specific advice.