Probiotics

Probiotics: products with live bacterial cultures

Probiotics are products that contain live microorganisms, usually in the form of bacterial cultures. The amount is expressed in colony-forming units (CFU), which indicates the number of live microorganisms per serving. In this range, you will find various probiotics, from products with one specific bacterial strain to complexes with dozens of strains.

The products differ in the number of bacterial strains, the amount of CFU, and the presence of additives such as fiber or digestive enzymes. Below you will read how probiotics are formulated, what forms are available, and what to look out for when comparing.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are products with live microorganisms, usually bacterial cultures that also occur naturally in fermented products such as yogurt and sauerkraut. Well-known genera in supplements are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. In supplement form, these cultures are dried and incorporated in a fixed amount per serving, so you know exactly how many live microorganisms a product contains.

CFU: colony-forming units

The amount of microorganisms in a probiotic is indicated in colony-forming units, abbreviated CFU. This number, for example 3 billion or 21 billion CFU per serving, indicates how many live microorganisms are in a dose at the time the product is produced or until the expiration date. When comparing products, it is useful to look at both the number of CFU and the number of strains.

One strain or a complex with multiple strains

Probiotics are available with a single bacterial strain or as a complex with multiple strains. In this range, for example, you will find a product with only Lactobacillus gasseri and complexes with 16, 20, or even 25 different strains. A product with one strain is targeted and straightforward; a complex combines multiple types in one product. Which approach you choose is a personal decision.

Probiotics with fiber or enzymes

Some probiotics are combined with other ingredients. For example, some complexes contain inulin, a plant-based dietary fiber. Other products combine probiotics with digestive enzymes in one capsule. These combinations are convenient for those who want multiple ingredients in one product, instead of separate supplements taken together.

Forms and storage

Most probiotics in this range are capsules, which makes dosing easy. Live cultures are sensitive to heat and moisture, so it is wise to follow the storage instructions on the packaging. Some products can be stored at room temperature, while others are best kept cool. Therefore, always check the label.

What to look out for when choosing

When comparing probiotics, look at the number of CFU per serving, the number and type of strains, any additives such as fiber or enzymes, and the storage instructions. The number of capsules per package and the daily dosage are also practical factors to consider. Follow the directions for use on the packaging and, if in doubt, seek advice from a doctor or therapist.

Buy probiotics at LUTO Supplements

In the probiotic range at LUTO Supplements, you will find complexes with multiple bacterial strains and products with a single strain, from brands such as Vit4ever, Swanson, and Osavi. Use the filters on this collection page to choose by composition or brand. All products are shipped from the Netherlands.