What are probiotics? Probiotics are living microorganisms, also known as “good bacteria,” that are found in various fermented foods or formulated in supplements. Probiotics help support a healthy gut microbiome, which is located in our digestive tract and comprised of trillions of microorganisms.* These microorganisms include bacteria, fungi, and yeast, and play key roles in digestion, immunity, and absorption.* Probiotics are known by their genus, species, and strain. The genus is a family grouping of several similar types of bacteria; the species further specifies the type of bacteria within that family; and the strain represents the unique individual bacteria. For example, a common probiotic strain is Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM. In this case, Lactobacillus is the genus, acidophilus is the species, and NCFM refers to the specific strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus present. How do probiotics work in the body? Probiotics work in a variety of ways. As “good bacteria,” probiotics work to help manage levels of potentially harmful microbes by contributing beneficial microbes and supporting microbial balance in the digestive tract.* There are various probiotic strains that have different benefits for the body, including promoting regularity, supporting immune health, or even promoting vaginal health.* For example, Lactobacilli cultures have been shown to support healthy vaginal microflora.* General benefits of probiotics Probiotics offer various benefits for our general health when taken consistently each day.* Main benefits of probiotics: Supports a healthy gut microbiome* Supports digestive balance* Supports immune health as 70% of the immune system lies in the gut* Can help maintain vaginal and urinary tract health* Can help reduce occasional gas, bloating, and constipation* Probiotics FAQs Q: What time of day should I take probiotics? A: Choosing when to take your probiotic supplements is entirely up to you. Most can be taken with or without food. Some probiotics that don’t require refrigeration are ideal for an on-the-go lifestyle and can be taken anytime, anywhere. Others that require refrigeration must be taken when you are at home. That being said, it’s crucial to take your probiotic supplements consistently and establish a regular daily routine. Q: What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics? A: Probiotics are beneficial living microorganisms, while prebiotics are the foods that “feed” them. Prebiotics promote the growth of healthy microorganisms in the gut and are naturally present in foods like beans, onions, bananas, and whole grains. Since prebiotics aren't digested, they can travel through your system to reach and feed the gut bacteria. Q: How long do probiotics take to work? A: Probiotics take time to work, and everyone’s internal microbiome is different. While there’s no set timeline, it’s important to maintain consistency with your probiotic supplements and find a regular time each day when you can take them. Nature’s Way probiotic supplements Nature’s Way has a variety of probiotic products, making it easier to find the right one for you and your wellness goals. We offer several forms, strengths, and strains of probiotics in our formulas. Some of our most popular probiotic products include: Women’s Probiotic Pearls®: These small and easy to take probiotics are perfect for a busy lifestyle. Formulated with active Lactobacilli cultures, this probiotic supplement helps support vaginal and urinary tract health, as well as digestive and immune health.* Fortify® Adults 50+ Extra-Strength† Probiotic: This extra-strength daily probiotic made specially for adults 50 and older is formulated with 11 diverse Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria probiotic strains. It supports digestive, immune and colon health and has 50 billion live probiotic cultures per capsule plus prebiotics, food for good bacteria.*†Compared to Fortify Adults Age 50+ 30 Billion probiotic formula Primadophilus® Reuteri Probiotic: Formulated with Lactobacillus reuteri UALre-16™, a unique probiotic strain, this probiotic supplement helps maintain digestive balance and promotes immune health.* Shop Nature’s Way full collection of probiotics here and prioritize your digestive health today.*