FAQ's about Probiotic+

Probiotic+ is our premium probiotic product and you bet we get a lot of queries about it! In this FAQ's, we've collated your most frequently asked questions and answered them.

How do we say Probiotic+?

It's "Probiotic Plus". Ok, this isn't an FAQ, but we've heard some very creative interpretations of the name, so let's ease into the blog by getting everyone on the same page.

What is lactobacillus?

You've probably noticed that most of the probiotics in Probiotic+ have names like L. rhamnosus and L. acidophilus. That 'L' stands for 'lactobacillus'. Lactobacillus is a very common family of bacteria.  They are found everywhere, including our environment, garden produce, fermented foods like yogurt, and in the human digestive system.  The 'lacto' is because they produce lactic acid as a byproduct of their fermentation activities. This lactic acid has many functions, for example it helps preserve the shelf life of fermented foods. In our digestive systems, lactic acid helps maintain the correct pH. This supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and inhibits the growth of pathogens, leading to a more balanced and functional gut microbiome.

Is Probiotic+ gluten free?

Probiotic+ contains no products that contain gluten, nor is there any product containing gluten in our factory.  While we haven't done the testing required to make a gluten free claim, it is unlikely that there is any gluten in Probiotic+.

How does Probiotic+ compare to other products on the market?

There are several features that put Probiotic+ a step ahead in the probiotic market:

• Potency and stability
• Testing
• It is also a prebiotic

Potency and stability of Probiotic+

Probiotic+ contains a massive 30 billion probiotic bacteria in every dose. We've also done our best to make sure every one is alive and kicking when you take delivery. The star of the show is a spore forming bacteria with many names.  On our label you'll see this little superstar featured as Bacillus coagulans.  However, it also goes by Lactobacillus sporogenes (because you were paying attention, you know this means it produces lactic acid).  Lately, due to the negative press that most 'bacillus' bacteria get (say bacillus cereus that causes food poisoning) it's had an identity crisis and become known as Weizmannia coagulans.  No matter the name, we love this beneficial germ. Because it rests in spore form, it is very hardy.  It only germinates and starts metabolising when digested, so you always get the full benefits for gut health, immunity, and nutrient absorption.

Apart from B. coagulans, we have 17 other diverse strains in Probiotic+.  While these are not spore-forming, they are coated for stability using a process called 'algination'.  This doesn't make them invincible, but careful handling during production ensures they will make it to you intact.

Speaking of handling, when you buy Probiotic+ you know it has been looked after. We make all our product onsite, and control every aspect of storage right up to shipping. Can you say that about products in your local health shop?

Testing of Probiotic+

While many probiotic products claim to have high numbers of beneficial bacteria, how do you know that those are still alive when you buy them? With Probiotic+ you can rest assured.  We have a testing programme to ensure that our ingredients and end product deliver what the label states.

Probiotic+ is also a prebiotic

A prebiotic is a type of non-digestible fibre found in many different foods. Prebiotics resist the initial stages of digestion and arrive more-or-less intact to the colon, where beneficial bacteria use the fibres for food.  We've written more about prebiotics and why they matter in this post, and discussed fibre at length in this post.  The prebiotic fibre we use in Probiotic+ is award winning Livaux™, which is made here in New Zealand from golden kiwifruit.  There's an entire blog devoted to Livaux™ here.

What are the main benefits of taking Probiotic+?

Probiotic+ is primarily designed to benefit those suffering digestive symptoms such as bloating, discomfort, diarrhoea and constipation.  However, a good probiotic will also benefit immunity, help balance inflammation and enhance nutrient absorption.

How long will it take to feel the benefits of taking Probiotic+?

The time that it takes to experience benefits from Probiotic+ is quite individual. It depends on what your issue is, how long you have felt like that, and the impact of your overall lifestyle. Some people see improvements in bloating, digestive comfort and bowel movements within days, but for others it can take much longer. With any gut health supplement, it's important to give it a trial period of at least a few weeks.  Keep a symptom diary during this time to monitor your progress.  As well as gut health benefits, watch for improvements in energy and general wellbeing.  One of the benefits of the Livaux™ is an increase in a gut microbe called f. prau. Increased levels of this species and a corresponding increased feelings of wellness have been observed within a month of daily supplementation.

Is there collagen in Probiotic+?

Yes, there IS collagen in Probiotic+, 2000mg of it per dose!

Will I get skin health benefits from Probiotic+?

The amount of collagen in Probiotic+ is enough for skin health benefits. Your skin will also benefit from the anti-inflammatory and general health benefits of the probiotics and prebiotics.

How do I take Probiotic+ and what does it taste like?

Probiotic+ tastes nice! It's a sweet, slightly tangy peach flavour.  The formulation mixes well with water, but you can also add it to smoothies, sprinkle it on your cereal or even stir it into cooked oats.

Can I take Probiotic+ every day?

Yes, Probiotic+ is designed for daily use. When you first take a high-dose probiotic like Probiotic+, there may be a run-in period where you can't tolerate the full dose.  This is normal and is caused by your gut bacteria getting into fermentation mode. You just need to cut back to a half dose then try the full dose again in a week or so.

Is Probiotic+ shelf-stable? Can I keep it in the refrigerator?

Probiotic+ is shelf-stable, however it is best not to let it get too hot or humid.  The Livaux™ and collagen can both absorb moisture and become a bit clumpy.  If this happens, just give the jar a good shake and it will easily loosen up.  Keeping Probiotic+ tightly sealed and in the fridge is a good idea for keeping it free flowing and maximising the shelf-life.

We hope this FAQ roundup has helped answer some of the questions you may have about Probiotic+.  If you have any questions that haven't been answered in this article, please make contact and we can help you.  Keep an eye on this post too, we will update it as more questions come our way.