The ingredients in BioGaia probiotic products center around patented strains of Limosilactobacillus reuteri, but the overall formulation changes depending on the delivery method, such as drops, chewable tablets, or capsules. Understanding these differences is key for consumers with dietary sensitivities or specific health goals. For example, the oil-based drops for infants contain only a handful of ingredients, while the chewable tablets for adults include sweeteners and flavors.
The Primary Probiotic Strain: Limosilactobacillus reuteri
At the core of almost every BioGaia product is the patented probiotic strain Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly Lactobacillus reuteri). This bacterium is naturally found in the human digestive tract and, in some cases, breast milk. BioGaia uses several specific strains, each identified by a unique number, because probiotic effects are highly strain-specific.
What is L. reuteri Protectis (DSM 17938)?
BioGaia's most common strain, L. reuteri Protectis, is also known by its identification number DSM 17938. This strain is often used in products aimed at general digestive health and addressing infantile colic. It was originally isolated from the breast milk of a Peruvian mother and has been extensively studied for its ability to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract without requiring special encapsulation.
Ingredients in BioGaia Protectis Drops
BioGaia Protectis drops are formulated for infants and young children and have a simple, gentle ingredient list. There are two main versions: a standard drop and one with added Vitamin D3.
Key ingredients typically include:
- Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938: The core probiotic strain, with each dose delivering a minimum of 100 million live bacteria.
- Sunflower Oil: Acts as a carrier oil for the probiotic cultures.
- Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) Oil: Another carrier oil that helps suspend the probiotic bacteria.
- Silicon Dioxide: An anti-caking agent used in some formulations to maintain consistency.
The version with Vitamin D3 will also contain Vitamin D3, while the standard version does not. The drops are typically free from common allergens, including dairy, gluten, and soy.
Ingredients in BioGaia Protectis Chewable Tablets
Designed for older children and adults, BioGaia Protectis chewable tablets have a different formulation to create a pleasant taste and texture. They are often flavored, such as with strawberry or lemon-lime.
Key ingredients typically include:
- Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938: The same core strain as the drops, but in a freeze-dried form.
- Isomalt: A sugar substitute that acts as a bulking agent.
- Xylitol: Another sugar alcohol used as a sweetener.
- Calcium Stearate: A non-medicinal ingredient used as a lubricant or flow agent.
- Citric Acid: Used as a flavor enhancer.
- Flavoring: Natural flavors like strawberry or lemon-lime.
- Vitamin D3: Some tablet formulations also include added Vitamin D3.
Ingredients in BioGaia Gastrus Tablets
For stomach and gastrointestinal comfort, BioGaia Gastrus uses a combination of two L. reuteri strains to provide a different benefit. These tablets are often flavored with mandarin and mint.
Key ingredients include:
- L. reuteri DSM 17938: The same Protectis strain.
- L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475: An additional, well-researched strain known for anti-inflammatory properties.
- Isomalt: A bulking agent.
- Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): Acts as a flavor enhancer and antioxidant.
- Mandarin and Mint Flavoring: Provides a pleasant taste.
Ingredient Comparison: Drops vs. Chewable Tablets
| Ingredient | BioGaia Protectis Drops | BioGaia Protectis Chewable Tablets |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Probiotic | L. reuteri DSM 17938 | L. reuteri DSM 17938 |
| Other Strains | None | None |
| Carrier Medium | Sunflower and MCT Oil | Isomalt (bulking agent) |
| Sweeteners | None | Xylitol, Isomalt |
| Flavoring | None (unflavored) | Strawberry, Lemon-Lime |
| Primary Use | Infantile Colic & Digestive Health | General Digestive Health |
| Format | Liquid drops | Chewable tablets |
The Importance of Strain-Specific Ingredients
As noted by BioGaia, the effects of probiotic bacteria are strain-specific, not just species-specific. This means that the unique ID, such as DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475, is crucial because it defines the specific properties and documented health benefits of the bacterium. A product containing Lactobacillus reuteri is not interchangeable with a BioGaia product unless it contains the exact, clinically proven strains used by the company. The specific ingredient blend is what allows the product to target conditions like colic, constipation, or general digestive comfort effectively.
Are BioGaia Products Free From Common Allergens?
For many consumers, especially those with infants, knowing about allergens is a priority. BioGaia Protectis drops are often considered free from common food allergens, including milk, gluten, and soy. The L. reuteri Protectis culture used in the drops is typically grown on a barley-based media, but the final product's gluten level is below the EU's limit for gluten-free products. Some BioGaia products, particularly capsules, are also explicitly labeled as vegan. Always check the specific product label for the most accurate allergen and dietary information.
Conclusion
While a single organism, Limosilactobacillus reuteri, is the star ingredient across many products, the complete list of what are the ingredients in BioGaia probiotics varies significantly based on the specific formulation. From the simple oil and probiotic mixture in infant drops to the flavored chewable tablets for adults, BioGaia tailors its ingredients to suit different user needs. Consumers should always read the product label to ensure the formulation aligns with their dietary preferences and specific health goals. The high degree of scientific research backing the specific strains used underscores the importance of choosing the correct product for the desired health benefit. BioGaia's Product List
