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Probiotics benefit the gut in several different ways

    — Replenish beneficial bacteria for healthy digestion
    — Promote a healthy gastrointestinal environment
    — Relieve abdominal discomfort and bloating
    — Alleviate indigestion and nausea
    — Promote regular bowel movements
    — Reduce flatulence
    — Support overall wellness and vitality

Are you taking the right probiotic—or throwing money down the drain?

Probiotics are all the rage—and rightly so. We're experiencing an epidemic of digestive disorders today, which is caused in large part by a lack of beneficial bacteria in our guts.

However, not all probiotics on the market are created equal. In fact, there's a tremendous variation in the quality and efficacy of the products you can buy at your local store or on the internet.

The criteria to focus on when choosing a probiotic is:

• To benefit the passage through the stomach and thrive in the large intestine. One of the roles of stomach acid is to prevent harmful bacteria from entering our bodies. However, stomach acid will also kill good bacteria that we swallow in the form of probiotics-unless the bacteria is protected from that acid in our stomachs.

• To contain a broad spectrum of microorganisms. The most effective probiotics contain several different strains of bacteria that work together synergistically to mimic the natural flora found in the human gut.

• To be effective for both constipation and loose stools or diarrhea. Many probiotics can relieve loose stools or diarrhea, but actually make constipation worse. The ideal probiotic should be effective for both conditions.

• To be gluten- and dairy-free. Gluten and dairy are two of the most common food allergens, and should never be included in probiotics (since people with digestive disorders are often sensitive to these foods)