How Long Does It Take For Probiotics To Work?
If you’ve just started consuming probiotics, you may be wondering how long it takes to feel the potential benefits of the micro-organism. With all the effects that probiotics have to offer, we wouldn't blame you for wanting these rewards sooner rather than later.
So, how long does it take for probiotics to work? In this article, we’ve covered everything you need to know about probiotic supplementation, along with some tips on how you can make the probiotics you take work even better. Take a look!
How Long Does It Take For Probiotics To Work?
The time it takes for your probiotics to work largely depends on the probiotic strains you’re consuming, the effect you are looking for and how consistent you are with supplementation.
Take the probiotic strain Lactobacillus Casei as an example. Clinical data from studies using this particular probiotic has indicated it may have beneficial effects in the gastrointestinal and immune areas at a recommended dosage of one billion colony forming units (CFUs). These studies were generally conducted over a period of 5-6 weeks.
Similarly the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium Lactis, which has been described in over 300 publications, has been shown to potentially support immune and bowel function at a daily frequency of one billion or more CFUs over a period of 2-4 weeks.
In conclusion, the time it takes for a probiotic to work will depend on the strain consumed and its associated clinical trials. A great rule of thumb is to stick to the one billion (or more) CFUs per day, for anywhere from three to six weeks. It's worth noting that everyone's experience with probiotics is unique, and it is best to evaluate your own results on a regular basis.
How To Make Probiotics Work Better
With the right habits by your side, it’s easy to get more from your daily probiotic. Learn how to make probiotics work better for you with these 4 simple tips below!
1. Pick The Right Probiotic For You
One of the best ways you can make your probiotics work better is to pick a supplement that is right for you. Luckily, choosing the best probiotic for your gut is a very easy process - you’ll just need to keep a few points in mind while shopping.
Start by asking yourself - why are you taking probiotics? Each strain offers specific benefits, so you can get more from a probiotic by knowing what you want to achieve - whether it’s to support gut health and immunity or ease discomfort.
Once you know why you’re using a probiotic, look for a product with one billion or more CFUs, containing live strains and with a targeted release function. This will help your probiotic work harder for you.
2. Look For Acid Resistant Probiotics
As nourishing as probiotics can be for our body, their journey to the intestines can be rough - especially as they pass through the stomach. In fact, some studies show that 99% of non micro-shield probiotics can die off in the first 30 minutes of exposure to a low pH environment.
Look for a robust probiotic that is micro-shielded to protect and nourish it as it travels through the stomach and into the gut.
3. Store Them Correctly
To maintain your probiotic’s quality and efficacy, you’ll need to store the bacteria properly.
Storage requirements will often vary between products, as it depends on the type of strain and supplement. To keep your probiotics in tip-top shape, be sure to carefully read the storage instructions.
Generally, storing probiotics in warm, humid locations will poorly impact the bacteria and reduce its potency. For the best results, aim to keep your supplements in a cool, dry location. Products with living probiotics (like PERKii Probiotic Drinks for example) will also need to be kept refrigerated, so keep an eye on this when choosing a probiotic.
4. Take Them Regularly
This may sound simple, but taking your probiotics regularly is one of the easiest ways to make your probiotics work better. After all, You can’t expect to reap these rewards if you aren’t taking your probiotics regularly or consistently. To reap the benefits of probiotics, you’ll need to consume them regularly.
Try setting a daily reminder on your phone, or keep your probiotics front and centre. Whether that's in the fridge, or in a dry cupboard, depending on the product itself.
PERKii Probiotic Drinks
If you’re on the hunt for a top of the range probiotic product for your gut, we’d suggest getting your hands on PERKii Probiotic drinks.
PERKii Probiotic Drinks are naturally flavoured, only 45 calories per serving and bottled with one billion or more probiotic CFUs. Head to our online store to shop the PERKii range now!
*The information in this article is provided as general knowledge only. Before adjusting your diet, it is always great practice to speak with your healthcare professional.