Tag: Single strain

The World Gastroenterology Organisation states that probiotic benefits are strain-specific and linked to adequate dosage, not the total number of strains. Therefore, the correct answer to "How many strains should I look for in a probiotic?" is complex, focusing more on your health needs than a simple number.

A 2020 meta-analysis of probiotic efficacy revealed that single-strain probiotics were often equivalent to multi-strain mixtures, challenging the common belief that more strains are best in a probiotic. This suggests that the quality and specific function of a strain are more crucial than the sheer number.

While many high-quality probiotics contain a blend of 5 to 10 different strains, the idea that more strains automatically means better results is a misconception. The most effective probiotic for an individual often depends more on the specific strains included and their documented effects than the total number of strains in the capsule.

Scientific studies show that in some cases, a mixture of probiotic strains was more effective at producing benefits, while in others, single-strain options performed better. This mixed evidence challenges the common assumption that more strains in probiotics are universally better, highlighting the importance of understanding specific health goals when choosing a supplement.