Understanding the Fortify Probiotic Formula
Fortify probiotics are developed with a specific, multi-strain approach to support overall digestive wellness and immune health. Instead of just one or two types of good bacteria, the formula incorporates a proprietary blend of bacterial cultures, which can vary depending on the specific Fortify product, such as the Daily 30 Billion, Daily 50 Billion, or Women's formulas. These blends are primarily composed of two main families of probiotics: Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria.
The Probiotic Blends: Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria
The core of the Fortify product line is its proprietary probiotic blend. The proportions and specific strains within this blend differ based on the product's intended purpose, such as everyday care, women's health, or for adults over 50. However, most formulas feature a significant number of both Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria strains.
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Lactobacilli Blend: This group of bacteria is a cornerstone of Fortify probiotics. Common strains include Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus plantarum. These strains are often associated with supporting digestive balance and are commonly found in fermented foods. Some formulations, like the Daily 30 Billion, can have a Lactobacilli blend with billions of CFUs (Colony Forming Units).
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Bifidobacteria Blend: The Bifidobacteria blend works alongside the Lactobacilli to support the colon. Common strains found in various Fortify products include Bifidobacterium bifidum/lactis, Bifidobacterium lactis, and HOWARU® Bifidobacterium lactis HN019™. This blend is particularly noted for supporting regularity and overall colon health. The specific CFU count for the Bifidobacteria blend also varies by product.
Additional Ingredients: Prebiotics and Capsule Components
Beyond the live cultures, Fortify probiotics include other ingredients to ensure the efficacy and delivery of the product. These include:
- Chicory (root) Fiber: Included as a prebiotic, this plant-based fiber serves as a food source for the good bacteria in the supplement, helping them flourish and survive. Prebiotics are non-digestible components that promote the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
- Plant-Derived Capsule: The capsules themselves are a key component of Fortify's delivery system. Made from ingredients like hypromellose and gellan gum, the delayed-release capsules are designed to survive the harsh stomach acid. This ensures that the live probiotic cultures are distributed where they are needed most—in the intestines and colon.
- Other Ingredients: Minor additions include cellulose, magnesium stearate, and silica, which serve various functions in the manufacturing process, such as preventing clumping.
Comparison of Fortify Probiotic Formulas
To understand how the ingredients can differ, comparing a few common Fortify formulas is helpful. This table provides a general overview, as specific strain counts can vary.
| Feature | Fortify Daily 30 Billion CFU | Fortify Daily 50 Billion CFU | Fortify Women's 30 Billion CFU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | General adult digestive and immune health. | General adult digestive and immune health, higher potency. | Women's digestive, immune, and vaginal health. |
| Total CFU | 30 Billion | 50 Billion | 30 Billion |
| Proprietary Blend | Features a blend of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria strains, including the doctor-preferred strain for regularity. | Higher concentration proprietary blend of Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria. | Blend targeted for women's needs, including specific Lactobacilli strains for vaginal health. |
| Prebiotic Fiber | Chicory root fiber. | Chicory root fiber. | Chicory root fiber. |
| Key Strains | L. rhamnosus GG, B. lactis HN019™. | L. casei Lc-11®, L. rhamnosus GG, B. lactis HN019™. | L. rhamnosus GG, L. acidophilus La-14®, B. lactis HN019™. |
Conclusion: A Multi-Ingredient Approach to Gut Health
Fortify probiotics are more than just a single bacterial strain; they are a multi-ingredient supplement built on a foundation of diverse probiotic cultures. By combining multiple beneficial bacteria from both the Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria families, Fortify aims to support a balanced intestinal tract. The inclusion of prebiotic fiber provides nourishment for these cultures, and the delayed-release capsule ensures they are delivered effectively to the gut. The specific combination of ingredients varies across the product line, allowing consumers to choose a formula tailored to their individual health needs. Understanding what are the ingredients in Fortify probiotics is crucial for anyone looking to make an informed decision about their digestive health supplements.
- How Probiotics Work: The Office of Dietary Supplements at the National Institutes of Health provides comprehensive information on probiotics and their functions in supporting overall health.
