10 best probiotics for the intestines: advantages and disadvantages, reviews

Updated: 02/01/2021 16:57:45
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*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

Many people without medical education are often confused by such specific terms as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics. However, in the case of a visit to the pharmacy and when purchasing similar products to stimulate the immune system and improve digestion without a prescription, you need to know the difference between these terms. Let us explain them in accessible language.

Probiotics

- these are preparations that contain various beneficial living microorganisms, most often bacteria, cocci, yeast. As for prebiotics, the prefix “pre-” means “before”, and “bio” means “life”.

Prebiotics

- these are drugs that do not contain strains of living bacteria, but they help them settle in the intestines and improve the functioning of normal microflora, helping it defeat pathogenic microorganisms. In other words, prebiotics stimulate the activity of probiotics. It is advisable to prescribe these drugs in turn. An example of a prebiotic is Hilak Forte, which contains a ready-made medium for the growth and reproduction of beneficial microorganisms.

Let's take a look at some of these exceptionally beneficial probiotic supplements that help support healthy digestion. Strictly speaking, these substances are not drugs, since they do not contain chemicals that interfere with the metabolism of the human body. They simply help us become healthy, increase our immunity, and get rid of dysbacteriosis. Let's consider the products included in the popular rating of “health assistants”.

How to choose probiotics

Digestive problems often occur after antibiotics. Why is this happening? The fact is that they kill not only harmful, but also beneficial bacteria. Probiotics restore their quantity and increase the activity of existing ones, and also strengthen intestinal immunity. Here is a brief overview of their selection criteria:

• General health. Many probiotics cannot be taken, for example, if you are lactose intolerant or in combination with antibiotics. Read the instructions for use carefully.
• Having allergies. An allergic reaction can occur to any component of the drug, so people prone to allergies need to carefully study the composition and take medications with great caution.
• Lifestyle. A single dose of a probiotic depends on lifestyle: for gastrointestinal diseases, higher doses are required than for preventive use. Healthy people usually take them when there is a change in climate or errors in diet.
• Dosage form. For young children, probiotics in the form of drops are recommended due to the anatomical features of the esophagus. Any shape is suitable for adults.
• Compatibility with other drugs. Some antibiotics destroy probiotics, some have no effect on them, so the dosage regimen varies from drug to drug. More details about compatibility are written in the instructions for use.

New generation probiotics are distinguished by the fact that they contain sorbents - particles that “absorb” harmful substances and toxins formed as a result of the activity of pathogenic bacteria. A simple example is activated carbon, familiar to everyone. When selecting a list of the best probiotics, we took into account all the criteria listed above, as well as customer reviews and expert opinions. The top includes the highest quality drugs.

Useful materials to choose from

TOP 5 drugs in tablets

In this section we have collected the best synbiotics in tablets. The drugs are sorted by cost per serving.

#5 Nature's Secret – Bliss Probiotic

Nature's Secret, Bliss Digestive Probiotic, 30 Proprietary Gelatin Tablets

★★★★☆

1 467 ₽

Buy at a discount

Price for 1 serving – 41 rub. 21 kopecks

Brief information:

• package volume – 30 tablets;
• daily dosage – 1 pc.

This supplement contains prebiotics and 18 types of bacteria. It cleanses and restores beneficial intestinal flora and improves well-being.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement has no contraindications and does not cause adverse reactions.

Minuses:

• No

№4 Bion 3

from 359 ₽

The cost of 1 serving is 35 rubles. 90 kopecks

General characteristics:

• package volume – 10 tablets;
• dosage per day – 1 pc.

In addition to a complex of living bacteria, the drug contains vitamins and minerals. This supplement has many indications.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement has a quick effect.

Minuses:

• has contraindications and causes adverse reactions;
• should not be taken concomitantly with supplements containing vitamins A and D.

#3 Hyperbiotics – PRO-15, the perfect probiotic

Hyperbiotics, PRO-15, The Ultimate Probiotic, 5 Billion CFU, 60 Patented Slow Release Tablets

★★★★☆

1 954 ₽

Buy at a discount

Price for 1 serving – 27 rubles. 43 kopecks

General information:

• package volume – 60 tablets;
• daily dosage – 1 pc.

The drug contains 15 strains of bacteria. There are 5 billion CFU in one serving. There are no restrictions on its use.

Pros:

• The product is suitable for vegetarians.

Minuses:

• many buyers complain about the lack of effect.

No. 2 Bifidumbacterin 1000

from 106 ₽

The cost of 1 serving is 21 rubles. 20 kopecks

General information:

• package volume – 30 tablets;
• daily dosage – 6 pcs.

The manufacturer of the drug is Ecco Plus LLC (Russian Federation). The supplement contains dried bacteria Bifidobacterium bifidum and lactulose, suitable for adults and children. It can be taken for intestinal diseases to eliminate the symptoms of dysbiosis.

In pediatric practice, dietary supplements are used to facilitate the transition of infants to artificial feeding.

Pros:

• Dietary supplements are allowed to be given to infants.

Minuses:

• may provoke allergic reactions.

No. 1 Jarrow Formulas – Prebiotics XOS+GOS (Xylooligosaccharides and galactooligosaccharides)

Jarrow Formulas, Prebiotics XOS+GOS (Xylooligosaccharides and Galactooligosaccharides), 90 Chewable Tablets

★★★★☆

1 036 ₽

Buy at a discount

The price of 1 serving is 20 rubles. 80 kop.

A brief description of:

• package volume – 90 chewable tablets;
• dosage per day – 3 pcs.

This supplement improves intestinal function, normalizes its microflora, eliminates flatulence and bloating. Prebiotics XOS + GOS contained in the preparation increase the number of bifido- and lactobacilli. The dietary supplement is designed for children over 5 years old.

Pros:

• the product is suitable for vegetarians and vegans;
• has no contraindications.

Minuses:

• unpleasant taste;
• large tablet size.

Types of Probiotics

Probiotics can be found not only in medications, but also in dietary supplements and foods such as yogurt, kefir, and even pickles. An important point: vinegar-based marinade kills these bacteria, so they will not help with digestive problems. This section will focus on medications. They come in 4 different forms, let's see how they differ

• Dry - available in powder form, which must be diluted with water. As the name suggests, these are dried bacteria. However, during the drying process they lose some of their properties, which are restored only after 8-10 hours. Also, when passing through the stomach, up to 90% of microorganisms can die, so the effect of such forms of probiotics is weak and short-lived, so currently preference is given to liquid and capsule options, more about them below.
• Liquid - contain not only the bacteria themselves, but also a nutrient medium that provides them with conditions for survival when passing through the stomach and preserves all the beneficial substances that they produce. An important feature is that the liquid form can also be used in children, for example, with colic.
• In capsules - the main advantage of probiotics in capsules, as the name implies, is the presence of a gelatin capsule, which protects the drug from the negative effects of the acidic environment of the stomach. Inside the capsule there is a powder with properties similar to dry forms of probiotics. Such forms are undesirable for use in children - there is a risk of the capsule getting into the respiratory tract, but they can also be diluted with water and taken as a solution, but in this case you need to remember the disadvantages of powder forms.
• Sorption drugs are a new generation of drugs due to the presence of a sorbent in the composition, which provides effective relief from the symptoms of intoxication of the body during intestinal infections caused by pathogenic bacteria - relieves pain, temperature, and removes toxins. Therefore, sorption probiotics have a complex effect on the intestines - they restore normal microflora and relieve symptoms caused by the disease. Prebiotics can be used as a sorbent.

From the above, we can draw the following conclusion: at present, liquid, capsule and sorption forms are most often used, which are practically not destroyed when passing through the gastrointestinal tract and retain all their beneficial properties, providing an effective fight against the disease.

TOP 5 drugs in capsules

Below is a list of the best capsule products that contain probiotics and prebiotics. Dietary supplements are sorted by price per serving.

No. 5 Dr. Ohhira's – Original Formulation Probiotics

Dr. Ohhira's, Probiotics, Original Formulation, 60 Capsules

★★★★☆

3 627 ₽

Buy at a discount

The cost of 1 serving is 52 rubles. 73 kopecks

Short description:

• package volume – 60 capsules;
• daily dosage – 2 pcs.

The supplement is made according to the unique recipe of Dr. Iichiro Ohira. In addition to pro- and prebiotics, the dietary supplement contains postbiotics - waste products of probiotics.

The drug strengthens the immune system and restores microflora in the gastrointestinal tract.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement produces a quick effect;
• Suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Minuses:

• No

No. 4 Danisco – Maxilak

Maxilak Synbiotic capsules 10 pcs.

from 424 ₽

Buy

Price for 1 serving – 42 rubles. 80 kop.

Brief information:

• package volume – 10 capsules;
• daily dosage – 1 pc.

The dietary supplement contains nine strains of gut-healthy bacteria at a concentration of 4.5 billion CFU. It is intended for adults and children over 3 years of age. The manufacturer recommends drinking it in the evening.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement does not contain casein.

Minuses:

• No

No. 3 Synbiotic Consumed

from 399 ₽

The cost of 1 serving is 39 rubles. 90 kopecks

General characteristics:

• package volume – 10 capsules;
• dosage per day – 1 pc.

The supplement contains bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, as well as inulin and oligofructose. The dietary supplement eliminates the imbalance of flora in the intestines, maintains the body's resistance, and participates in the synthesis of vitamins and metabolism. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as well as in case of individual intolerance to the strains included in the composition.

Pros:

• ease of use.

Minuses:

• the supplement is contraindicated in children under 14 years of age;
• contains a low concentration of beneficial bacteria;
• The packaging volume is not enough for the course.

No. 2 Evalar – Synbiotic Bifilar

from 389 ₽

Price for 1 serving – 12 rubles. 97 kopecks

Short description:

• package volume – 30 capsules;
• daily dosage – 1-2 pcs.

The drug normalizes intestinal microflora, strengthens the immune system, promotes the reproduction and growth of beneficial organisms. It is recommended for adults and children over 3 years of age.

The product has contraindications: individual intolerance to the components present in its composition, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Pros:

• the product is produced jointly with the American company UAS Labs;
• Up to 97% of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli enter the intestines.

Minuses:

• insufficient bacterial content (1×108 CFU).

#1 21st Century – Acidophilus Probiotic Blend

21st Century, Acidophilus Probiotic Blend, 100 Capsules

★★★★☆

442 ₽

Buy at a discount

The cost of 1 serving is 3 rubles. 80 kop.

General information:

• package volume – 100 capsules;
• daily dosage – 1 pc.

The drug supports the health of intestinal microflora. It contains a strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus and other bacteria, as well as inulin.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement does not contain gluten, sugar, salt or preservatives;
• Each capsule contains 1 billion CFU.

Minuses:

• No

FAQ

Prebiotics or probiotics?

Probiotics (synonym - eubiotics) are live microorganisms that inhabit the human intestines. Prebiotics are chemicals that create a nutrient environment for the development of “good” bacteria and stimulate the formation of natural microflora. These drugs are often taken together and may be present in sorption probiotics.

How are probiotics different?

There can be a lot of differences. This includes what bacteria are in them and their quantity, and the presence of other excipients. Globally, all drugs, depending on the time of creation of the probiotic, are divided into several generations:

• Monocomponent - 1st generation of drugs, the simplest in their action, since they contain only 1 type of microorganisms (bifidobacteria, lactobacilli).
• Antagonists - 2nd generation, contain bacterial spores or fungi that are not normally found in the intestines, but suppress pathogenic microflora and are eliminated from the body over time.
• Multicomponent (Symbiotics) - 3rd generation, contain several types of bacteria that enhance each other's effects.
• Synbiotics - 4th generation, contain 1 type of bacteria and a nutrient medium for their reproduction.
• Multicomponent synbiotics - 5th generation, contain several types of bacteria and a nutrient medium.

Currently, probiotics of all generations are used, but the choice depends on the cause of the disease and the severity of the condition. It is very difficult to choose the right category on your own; we recommend doing this together with a specialist.

Which probiotics are best to take after antibiotics?

An important point: it is better to take probiotics along with antibiotics while changes in the gastrointestinal tract are not very pronounced. If you are late, the violations will be more serious and the course of treatment will take longer. Food products (yogurt, kefir, cheese), as well as medications, can be used as probiotics.

In such cases, products containing lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are often prescribed.

Ask your question

TOP 5 drugs in other forms: powder, liquid

Below we present a ranking of the best synbiotics in powder and liquid form, sorted by price per serving.

№5 Renew Life, Ultimate Flora Probiotic

Renew Life, Ultimate Flora Probiotic, Special Care, 200 Billion, 7 Packets, 0.86 oz (24.5 g)

★★★★☆

1 916 ₽

Buy at a discount

The cost of 1 serving is 230 rubles. 60 kopecks

General characteristics:

• packaging volume – 7 bags;
• dosage per day – 1 pc.

This preparation contains all the bacteria, fructooligosaccharides and fibers necessary for the body. It restores digestive balance, supports immunity, improves intestinal function, and gives vigor and strength.

There are 200 billion living organisms in 1 serving.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement does not cause side effects;
• Free of gluten, dairy proteins and soy.

Minuses:

• No

No. 4 Normoflorin-B biocomplex

from 205 ₽

Price for 1 serving – 41 rub.

General description:

• volume – 100 ml;
• daily dosage – 20 ml.

The supplement contains live bacteria, organic and essential acids, and vitamins. It should be mixed with liquid and taken 30 minutes before meals.

Pros:

• Dietary supplements can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding;
• does not contain lactose, preservatives or dyes.

Minuses:

• There is not enough volume for the course.

No. 3 Biovestin lacto emulsion for oral administration

from 420 ₽

The cost of 1 serving is 35 rubles.

General information:

• packaging volume – 7 bottles;
• daily dosage – 12 ml.

This drug contains bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. It can be taken to restore intestinal flora in the treatment of dysbiosis, dysbacteriosis, long-term antibiotic therapy, and prenatal preparation.

Pros:

• The dietary supplement does not cause an overdose.

Minuses:

• has contraindications;
• may cause allergies.

#2 Country Life – Realfood Organics, probiotic powder for every day

Country Life, Realfood Organics, Daily Probiotic Powder, 3.1 oz (90 g)

★★★★☆

2 325 ₽

Buy at a discount

The price of 1 serving is 31 rubles. 32 kopecks

A brief description of:

• weight – 90.0 g;
• dosage per day – 1 scoop.

The powder contains 9 strains, fermented whole food blends and Aloe Vera. The drug provides a natural nutrient medium for beneficial intestinal bacteria.

Pros:

• the product can be taken with food, sprinkled on food or added to drinks;
• Suitable for children and adults.

Minuses:

• The drug should only be stored in the refrigerator.

№1 Nature's Way – Primadophilus, Reuteri Superior Probiotic, powder

Nature's Way, Primadophilus, Reuteri Superior Probiotic, Multi-Strain Powder with scFOS, 141.75 g

★★★★☆

1 341 ₽

Buy at a discount

The cost of 1 serving is 23 rubles. 69 kopecks

Short description:

• weight – 141.75 g;
• daily dosage – 1 tsp.

This supplement improves intestinal microflora. Dietary supplements can be given to infants, but only after consultation with a pediatrician.

Pros:

• minimum restrictions on admission.

Minuses:

• No

The best monocomponent probiotics

Biovestin

• A special type of bifidobacteria
• Country Russia
• Price: 569 RUR
• Rating (2020): 9

The Bio-Vesta company was founded by scientific employees, which initially inspires confidence in the drug. The probiotic Biovestin contains bifidobacteria and belongs to the first generation. Its main feature is the high rate of reproduction and activity of bifidobacteria, which promotes accelerated recovery after infections and restoration of intestinal microflora, so Biovestin cannot be compared with other drugs. If the bottle is stored open, children should not take it; for adults, an open bottle is good for 24 hours.

• Advantages
  Wide range of applications

Lactobacterin

• Best for allergies
• Country Russia
• Price: 168 RUR
• Rating (2020): 8

NPO Biomed is the Perm branch of Microgen. The drug Lactobacterin belongs to the first generation and contains lactobacilli. It has a wide spectrum of action: treatment of dysbacteriosis, sexually transmitted infections, allergic reactions. This probiotic also helps improve immunity, so it is also suitable for the prevention of ARVI in people prone to frequent respiratory diseases.

• Advantages
  Can be used in children from birth
• Suitable for pregnant women

Bifidumbacterin

• The cheapest
• Country Russia
• Price: 81 R
• Rating (2020): 8

Such an inexpensive drug as Bifidumbacterin, a first generation probiotic, contains bifidobacteria and is used to treat not only intestinal infections and dysbacteriosis, but also some gynecological diseases, bronchitis and pneumonia. It can be taken in combination with vitamins (especially B vitamins) to enhance the effect. The only side effects that occur are an allergic reaction, and according to some reports, drowsiness. Can be used in children from birth, as well as in pregnant women and for the prevention of mastitis in nursing mothers.

• Advantages
  Budget
• There is no strict application plan

Comparison of the presented funds

In order to compare the presented drugs, we recommend that you look at the table with their characteristics.

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Probiotics and prebiotics in one preparation

Average rating: Number of reviews: 0

Synbiotics are in great demand. Most people suffering from dysbacteriosis and poor digestion have experienced their effectiveness and claim that these drugs:

• normalize intestinal microflora;
• improve skin condition;
• relieve acne and pimples;
• give strength and vigor.

But there are also disadvantages: some patients are allergic to the drug.

Beneficial features

• Regulate acidity in various parts of the digestive system. During their existence, bifidobacteria secrete biologically active compounds (various types of acids - lactic, acetic, formic and succinic), which help reduce the pH in the intestinal lumen to 5.0. Lactobacilli also produce lactic acid, which creates an “acidification” zone in the lower digestive tract (pH reaches 4.0).
• Antimicrobial action. Symbiotic bacteria displace competitive microorganisms - pathogenic and opportunistic pathogens of gastrointestinal infections - from their habitat. This property is achieved by an acidic reaction in the intestines at a low pH. Such conditions are unfavorable for the life of pathogenic microorganisms. In addition, the main representatives of beneficial microflora secrete antibiotic-like substances (lysozyme, bacteriocins, alcohols, lactocidin, lactolin, acidophilus and others). These compounds inhibit the growth and reproduction of putrefactive and pyogenic bacteria.
• Synthesize vitamins. Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli are involved in the formation of ascorbic, nicotinic, pantothenic and folic acid. Biotin, vitamins K and group B are also actively synthesized.
• Digestive action. Symbiotics participate in the metabolism of protein compounds and bile acids. Break down high molecular weight carbohydrates, lipids and dietary fiber. Due to this, the main representatives of normal microflora improve the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients. Beneficial bacteria also form end products of protein breakdown, which stimulate the contractile activity of the intestinal wall - peristalsis. They utilize undigested food residues and inactivate biologically active substances secreted with gastrointestinal juices.
• Immunomodulatory property. Bifidobacteria and lactobacilli stimulate the production of immunoglobulins and interferon. Antibiotic-like substances are released that create a nonspecific factor of the body's immune defense.
• Metabolic action. Beneficial bacteria enhance the absorption of calcium ions, iron and vitamin D. They synthesize biologically active substances - estrogens, promazine, colchicine, digoxin and others.
• Detoxifying property. Symbiotics immobilize and remove toxic products with feces, including metals, phenols and other xenobiotics.

Contraindications and side effects

Individual sensitivity to the active ingredients of multicomponent probiotics, as well as allergic intolerance to cow's milk protein (lactose), impaired absorption of galactose.

Side effects:

• Diarrhea in the first 2-3 days of taking symbiotics. It occurs in people with sensitive intestines and goes away on its own. You can reduce the dose of the drug for the duration of the stool disorder. After normalization of the condition, the volume of the drug is adjusted to the original value (within a week).
• Allergic manifestations (rash).

Parameters of normal microflora

In a healthy woman, only 95% of lactobacilli are detected in a smear. Normally, in addition to lactobacilli, the presence of candida and gardnerella is allowed in small quantities. Below is a table with normal microflora indicators in women.

What is better: suppositories, vaginal capsules or gel?

All forms of drugs are intended to restore damaged vaginal microflora. If we compare tablets, gel and suppositories, the former are more convenient to use. After all, there is much less discharge after their administration, so they can be used at any time of the day without discomfort.

The use of lactobacilli to normalize female microflora prevents serious complications and gynecological pathologies. Self-medication will harm health and worsen a person’s condition, so you need to visit a doctor to select the right remedies.

Article design: Vladimir the Great

Prebiotics

It should be taken into account when using prebiotics that this is a remedy that is used to treat various pathological conditions of the intestinal flora. Prebiotics are drugs that are prescribed in a probiotic correction regimen as an additional treatment. Prebiotics for children and adults are prescribed for constipation and other pathological conditions.

For children, as a rule, Lactulose is used, as well as its analogues, Hilak forte , Lysozyme , pantothenic acid , inulin preparations , etc. A more complete list of prebiotic drugs, as well as information about which one is best for children to drink, can be found at doctor