### Probiotic Products: The Importance of Genus, Species, and Strain Information
#### Essential Information for Choosing the Right Probiotic
When it comes to selecting a probiotic product, one crucial factor to consider is the genus, species, and strain of each probiotic bacterial strain included. According to registered dietitian and nutritionist Marissa Ferira, this information is essential for making an informed decision about the efficacy of a probiotic product. If a product fails to provide these details or only offers a proprietary blend, Ferira suggests reaching out to the company for clarification or opting for a brand that includes the necessary information upfront.
#### The Need for Transparency
Ferira emphasizes the importance of choosing a brand that is transparent and provides the genus, species, and strain information. She compares the lack of specificity in a probiotic product to someone asking for their city, state, and ZIP code, and receiving the response “United States of America.” Without the specific details, it becomes challenging to assess the effectiveness of a probiotic. Therefore, it is crucial to opt for brands that offer transparency and provide the necessary information.
#### Understanding the Label
To illustrate the significance of the genus, species, and strain information, Ferira gives an example. If a label states “Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07,” it reveals that the genus is Bifidobacterium, the species is lactis, and the strain is Bi-07. This trio of information plays a crucial role in identifying the specific probiotic strain, which is a key element in clinical research on probiotics. By knowing the specific strain, consumers can gain insight into the product’s efficacy and make an informed decision.
#### Making Informed Choices
The genus, species, and strain information provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of a probiotic product. Clinical literature often references probiotics by their specific strain names, making it essential to choose products that provide this information. By understanding the strain, consumers can make informed choices about the probiotics they consume, ensuring they select products that align with their specific needs and goals.
Choosing a transparent brand that includes the necessary information upfront allows consumers to evaluate the efficacy of a probiotic product accurately. With the genus, species, and strain information, individuals can make informed decisions about which probiotics to incorporate into their daily routine and potentially reap the benefits of these beneficial bacteria.
In conclusion, when it comes to selecting probiotic products, it is crucial to consider the genus, species, and strain information provided by the brand. By opting for transparent brands that offer this information upfront, consumers can make informed choices about the probiotics they consume and maximize the potential benefits of these products.
Original Story at www.mindbodygreen.com – 2023-10-30 12:56:57
