It's 2025 and we grown, so probiotics better be apart of your routine!

However, if it isn't yet and you're not sure which one to pick, fret not, for consider this your guide. 

What are probiotics?

They're actually live bacteria that provides you with better gut health and better heart health. These harmful bugs are mostly found in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, etc. 

But, if those foods are not something you have all the time, then you can sub them in the form of supplements!

Here's how you pick the best probiotic!

1. Make sure the strain matches your health goal

Ask yourself what is it you aim to achieve with this probiotic? Knowing what your body needs is a crucial step in getting the right probiotics for you. 

Each strain has their own benefits. For example, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (LGG) is one of the most effective strains for preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea. 

Another strain could support cardiovascular health, alleviate travelers diarrhea or ease symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They're not a one-size-fits-all. 

2. Check the expiration date

Probiotics are live bacteria. This means that they need to be alive for them to do their job. They must also be able to survive the harsh acidic conditions of your stomach acid to reach your intestines alive. 

First check the expiration date, and second make sure that the capsules have an enteric coating or come in protective packaging, like blister packs. 

This will help the bacteria survive the trip to your gut so they can do their job once they get there. 

3. Do your research

- Make sure you know the strain's full name, so you understand the strain's full benefits. 

- Check the label for the species, the strain and the genus. 

- Find strains that have research to back them up, for the full intended results. 

- Choose one which is independently verified to lesser the chances of biasness from the manufacturing company. 

Happy choosing!