Why Not All Probiotics Are Created Equal

Walk into any health store or scroll online, and you’ll notice countless probiotic supplements - capsules, powders, gummies, drinks - all promising better gut health, glowing skin, and even improved mood.

When I mention probiotics to clients, I often hear "Oh I do take probiotics, but they didn't work!"

Here’s the truth: not all probiotics are created equal. In fact, choosing the wrong one may do little to nothing for your health.

Let’s break down why.

1. Different Strains, Different Benefits

Just like there are different species of animals, there are different species and strains of probiotics.

For example:

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is well-studied for diarrhea and gut repair after antibiotics.

• Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 may help reduce bloating and symptoms of IBS.

• Saccharomyces boulardii (a beneficial yeast) can be helpful during or after travel-related gut infections.

  
  

If your probiotic label just says “Lactobacillus” without the strain (e.g., GG, CRL1505, or a number at the back), it’s like buying a car based only on the brand without knowing the model. You simply don’t know exactly what you're getting, or if it’s even what your body needs.

2. One Size Doesn’t Fit All

Did you know that you have a microbiome not just in your gut, but also in your nose, mouth, lungs, skin, and genital tract? Your microbiome is as unique as your fingerprint.

What works wonders for one person might not help another, or might even cause bloating, discomfort, or skin flares. That’s why a personalized approach is often best.

For example:

• A person with eczema might need a skin-focused strain like Lactobacillus sakei

• Someone with antibiotic-induced diarrhea may benefit from Saccharomyces boulardii

• If you struggle with constipation, a fiber-rich prebiotic or synbiotic (probiotic + prebiotic) might be more effective.

3. Survivability Matters

A major challenge with probiotics is getting them where they need to go, alive. Many strains are sensitive to stomach acid, heat, or moisture. A poorly formulated product may deliver dead bacteria that offer no benefit.

Look for probiotics that are:

• Encapsulated or enteric-coated for acid resistance

• Stored in temperature-controlled conditions (especially if they’re not shelf-stable)

• Verified to contain the CFUs (colony-forming units) stated on the label at expiry, not just at manufacture.

4. Quality Control and Transparency

Supplements are not tightly regulated in many countries. Some products don’t contain what they claim — or may contain unwanted ingredients like fillers, allergens, or even contaminants.

When choosing a probiotic, look for:

• Clinically tested strains

• Clear strain identification on the label

• Third-party testing or certification

• Transparent company practices

I only stock or recommend probiotics that have undergone rigorous third-party testing and are sourced from reputable practitioner-only brands.

Shop here

5. Probiotics Are Only Part of the Puzzle

No probiotic can out-supplement a poor diet or high stress. You can’t take a capsule, yet keep eating the same processed foods, and expect significant results.

Supporting your gut also means:

• Eating diverse, fiber-rich whole foods (especially prebiotics like garlic, onions, leeks, and bananas) - these are foods for the beneficial gut bacteria

• Managing stress and sleeping well (yes, it affects your gut)

• Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics

Probiotics can be powerful allies, but only when chosen wisely. If you're not seeing results, don’t assume they "don’t work." It might just be the wrong strain, the wrong dose, or the wrong delivery.

At Glow Health, I help you take the guesswork out of gut healing. Through functional testing and a personalized plan, we get to the root of your symptoms and find what truly works for your body.

Ready to find the right probiotic for you — or to know if you even need one? Book a virtual coaching session today.

Book online

Our new Gut Reset Group Coaching Program is launching soon!

Click the button below to join the waitlist, and be the first to know when doors open.

Join the waitlist