Buying guide for Best women's probiotics
Probiotics are bacteria that are good for your body, especially your digestive system. Ingesting probiotics through food or daily supplements can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria and ward off infection and disease. For the average woman, getting an adequate level of healthy bacteria through foods can be difficult — that’s why probiotic supplements are so effective. Taking probiotic supplements specifically intended for women can help with weight loss, healthy hair and nails, and other related areas that women deal with in particular.
When shopping for women’s probiotics, you’ll want to consider a few things beforehand. Be mindful of a product’s CFU levels and how many active cultures it contains.
Check what form your supplement comes in: capsule, powder, or chewable. It’s important to have an idea of how large a dose you can safely take daily to get the results you’re looking for. Finally, ladies will want to consider any other active ingredients that specifically target women’s health.
The goal of women’s probiotics
Anyone, male or female, can take a probiotic to help support digestive health. In turn, the health of the gut is thought to support other systems in the body, including the immune system and reproductive system. When shopping for probiotics for women, look for products that specifically target your issues of concern. Some of the better products contain ingredients that provide support for vaginal health, brain and memory function, metabolism, and other health areas of interest to women.
Expert tip
Unless the package indicates that the product needs to be refrigerated, keep probiotics in a cool, dark, dry space.
BestReviews Nutrition Expert
Active cultures and CFUs
When describing how many different types of “good bacteria” are in probiotics, the term “active cultures” is used. You’ll also come across the term or acronym CFUs, meaning colony-forming units. This term is used to describe bacteria levels and how many are capable of dividing and forming colonies. These numbers are important because they determine how potent your product will ultimately be. That said, a higher number doesn’t always mean better; it depends on what your body needs. Your personal goals and overall sense of well-being help determine what CFU level is right for you.
If you’re simply looking to increase overall health and give your digestive system a boost, a good range for a daily probiotic generally falls between 5 and 15 billion CFUs. However, higher levels (like 20 to 50 billion) can be effective when dealing with specific problems.
Supplement forms
Capsules
Capsules are the most common way that probiotic supplements are taken, mainly due to convenience and effectiveness. One of the biggest reasons they’re effective in this form is ease of storage; they can be stored in cabinets or in the refrigerator in capsule form. Many probiotics are not heat and moisture sensitive, so they may not always need refrigeration. However, because they are live bacteria, refrigeration will usually help extend shelf life.
Chewables
For women who prefer not to swallow capsules or pills, chewables work well. They’re also ideal for children. Chewables provide all of the benefits of a capsule but are much easier to take on a daily basis. Chewables tend to contain fewer CFUs per dose and don’t last as long on the shelf. Considering these supplements come in tasty gummy or chewable form, they may also contain extra ingredients, some of which may not be desirable.
Powders
Probiotics also come in powder form. These work well for women with busy schedules, since they’re easy to store and can combine some level of convenience and tastiness. Users can mix the powder (flavored or unflavored) with water or their favorite drink. Some powders come in mini-packet form so users can easily stash them in a pocket or purse.
Common foods
As many people know, probiotics can already be found in some familiar foods. Fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut naturally contain probiotics and are great to include in your diet. The main issue is that they won’t deliver nearly as many CFUs or specific bacteria the way some supplements can.
Dosage and supply
Some products require you to take one capsule daily; others may require four. Because everyone is different, it’s important to understand the recommended dosage amounts. If you want to see results, follow the recommended dosage made by manufacturers or your doctor.
Women’s probiotic prices
Low: $15 to $20
This is where you’ll find your one month’s supply of basic probiotics. Products in this price range contain everything you need to get started but probably not much more. Start here and work your way up if you’re serious about taking the first step toward improving digestive or gut health. Be mindful of storage and expiration, as these products may not have the longest shelf life.
Mid: $20 to $35
Mid-priced items typically contain additional properties to help with specific health areas such as vaginal health, weight loss, and brain health. This is where you can also find many probiotic products that do a great job supporting overall health.
High: $35 to $45
Pricier probiotics for women contain two or three months’ worth of probiotic supplements and likely contain a high number of active cultures, or CFUs. Ingredients geared toward specific feminine needs may also be included. Products like powder tubs and packets will be in this range, as they tend to have a longer shelf life.
Expert tip
Probiotics can be pricey. Some people find that they are really helpful for restoring their gut health, but others find them less helpful. I encourage people to try probiotics out and see if they notice a difference. Some people recommend trying it for 1-3 months and then taking a 1-3 month break to notice if there are differences. This way, you'll know if probiotics are worth the cost for you.
BestReviews Nutrition Expert
Tips
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Probiotics are best taken on an empty stomach when acid levels are low.
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Avoid taking probiotics with chlorinated water. Chlorine kills bacteria and undoubtedly lessens the effect of the probiotic supplement.
- Fiber works wonders in providing a rich environment for your probiotic bacteria to thrive. Keep your microbes fed by consuming foods like onions, garlic, and leeks.
FAQ
Q. Are there any side effects to taking probiotics?
A. Probiotic supplements are generally safe to take. However, there is a slight adjustment period that many new users may have to endure. During the first week of consumption, new users may experience mild stomach pain due to gas. These symptoms should go away as the body regulates.
Expert tip
Probiotics that are at least 10 CFUs are the most effective.
BestReviews Nutrition Expert
Q. What is the main difference between probiotics for men and probiotics for women?
A. Probiotics designed for women focus on vaginal health, mood support, and a healthy immune system. Products vary.though, so be sure to review labeling if you’re looking for help in specific areas.
Q. How long before I notice results?
A. The digestive properties of probiotics should take effect within the first few days of use. Some may experience mild adverse effects for the first day or two, but within a few weeks, you should begin to feel the benefits.
