What to look for when choosing a probiotic for yourself and your family

Gut health is so important and goes beyond just helping with digestion. In fact, within our gut is trillions of bacteria that not only ​​process the food we consume, but also help our body to stay healthy¹. 

Our gut is home to bacteria, yeasts, viruses and fungi viruses, which are collectively known as the gut microbiota, and there is now compelling research showing that the gut microbiome is fundamental in shaping our health. In fact, a healthy gut can boost our mood, our energy levels, our brain health and even our immunity.

What are the signs of poor gut health?

Everyone’s gut microbiome is unique, but the typical signs that your gut might need some attention include:

• Gut symptoms including pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, excessive wind

• Feeling tired all the time

• Getting ill more frequently

• Low mood

• Skin changes, like psoriasis and acne

How can you improve your gut health?

There are simple and easy ways to improve your gut’s health, from a balanced diet to regular exercise and stress management. The key tips are:

• Improve the quality of your sleep

• Try to reduce your stress levels

• Stay hydrated

• Get regular exercise 

• Eat more fiber

• Avoid ultra-processed foods

• Eat foods rich in probiotics

Probiotics are believed to promote better gut health as they can work to restore the natural balance of bacteria. But what are they? And how can you implement them into your everyday routine?

What are probiotics and how do they help?

Probiotics, according to ISAPP, are “live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” 

Most probiotics come as supplements (e.g. liquids, sachets, tablets), but some are contained within foods, such as certain yoghurts. Probiotics can help with certain health conditions by changing the balance of bacteria in our gut. 

Fermented foods may or may not contain bacteria. Many plant-based fermented foods (such as sauerkraut, kimchi, miso) also contain prebiotics and polyphenols that can support your gut microbiome.

A lot of foods in your diet are already rich in probiotics 

Probiotic supplements are not a requirement for a healthy gut, but many of our Mumsnet community have praised the benefits, with user georgarina sharing: “I take a daily probiotic and it helps me prevent UTIs.”

“I've taken probiotics from Holland and Barrett for the last 15 years,” romany4 added. “It's helped my IBS and I never get stomach bugs or UTIs.”

A lot of our Mumsnet community are fans of Symprove, which is a once-daily ​​water-based supplement containing 10 billion live and active bacteria per daily dose. The brand’s dairy free liquid solution is the result of 15 years of testing - independently trialled by some of the brightest minds at UCL and King's College London.

HundredMilesAnHour shared recently: “I've been taking Symprove for almost a year now and I definitely notice a significant difference.”

“I tried it for three months two years ago and it helped my symptoms massively - calmed my stomach, no more bloating, wind or discomfort after eating certain foods,” Noodle421 added.

What kind of probiotic should you take?

When deciding what one could be good for you, it's important to consider the strain as this usually determines what health issue the probiotic can target. 

The most common types of probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. Different probiotic supplements contain different strains, which may be classified under the same species and genus. 

The strain Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM has been shown in studies to improve the symptoms of IBS, such as bloating. Meanwhile, studies show that the Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 strain may support immune function.

The four active ingredients in Symprove’s liquid solution are types of live lactic acid bacteria that have a good safety profile. These are: 

• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus

• Enterococcus faecium

• Lactobacillus acidophilus

• Lactiplantibacillus plantarum

How should you store probiotics?

The right way to store probiotics depends on whether they’ve been dried - and put in sachets or capsules - or whether they’re in liquid form, according to Symprove. 

How to store probiotic supplements

The right way to store probiotics depends on whether they’ve been dried – and put in sachets or capsules – or whether they’re in a liquid.

Supplements with dried microbes can usually be stored in a dry, cool place, like a cupboard. Through the drying process, microbes become “dormant” and are activated once consumed and reach your gut. 

Liquid probiotics fare best in the fridge, as the cool temperature helps keep the microbes alive.

Are probiotics safe for children?

Research indicates that probiotics are generally safe and well-tolerated in children. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for children who are seriously or chronically ill².

When should you not take probiotics?

While probiotics have a good safety profile and are deemed safe in the vast majority of individuals, there may be exceptions to this rule. 

For example, probiotics may not be suitable for people who are severely immunocompromised or critically ill. Always speak with a healthcare professional if you are unsure.

What else should I be aware of with probiotics?

Probiotics are classed as food supplements, not medicines. This means they don't go through the same level of rigorous testing as medicines. 

If you’re looking for a probiotic, check out this ISAPP guide to help you find the right one. And to help navigate the probiotic label, ISAPP have shared this information. 

Choose a probiotic for the health condition or symptom you're hoping to target. If you’re still not 100% sure, it’s worth contacting the probiotic manufacturer to ask for their research.

About Symprove

Symprove’s powerful liquid solution is the UK’s no.1 water-based live and active bacteria supplement and most recommended by health care professionals in the UK. It’s a firm favourite with our Mumsnet community. It's dairy free and water based, plus it's safe for children (always check dosage instructions) and those on antibiotics.

About the author

Kat Romero is a writer and journalist with over a decade’s experience in the industry. Hailing from London, she has become experienced in scouring the market to find the latest and best products, services and events that are worth your purchase. As a mother herself, she knows all too well how hard it can be to plan Christmas events with children. So, you can trust that she’s fully invested in making sure you receive the best recommendations.

Away from her desk, Kat can be found consuming far too much coffee and spending her weekends with her toddler and partner - soaking up the sights of London and sampling anything new and exciting that has opened up within walking distance.

¹ Healthline, “How Does Your Gut Microbiome Impact Your Overall Health?”

² Healthline, “Are Probiotics Healthy for Children?”