Probiotics are live, “good” bacteria that help support a healthy and balanced microbiome. Learn more about probiotics
The microbiome consists of tiny living cells (like bacteria) and the surrounding habitat—in our digestive tracts, on our skin, and in our mouths. These cells help metabolism, digestion, and immune function. Stress, unhealthy diet, traveling, and antibiotic use can cause our microbiomes to become out of balance.
Probiotics work by maintaining a healthy balance of “good” and “bad” bacteria in your body. When you have too much bad bacteria, your health is affected. The good bacteria in probiotic supplements can restore the balance within your body, helping you feel better.
Different probiotics work in different ways. For example, some of them can:
- Help improve digestion
- Keep a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut for ideal wellness
- Produce vitamins
- Help support the cells that line your gut to promote gastrointestinal (GI) health
No, prebiotics aren’t the same as probiotics. Probiotics are “good” bacteria that you can take in supplement form. Prebiotics are types of fiber and other nondigestible carbohydrates that feed the friendly bacteria in your digestive system.
No, probiotics come in many different forms, or “strains.” Each probiotic strain has a specific job to do, so choosing the right strain for the right job is important. For example, if you are looking to maintain digestive health, there are specific strains that help address how your gut functions. Learn more about probiotics
HOWARU® probiotics are found in many manufactured products. For a list, please check out our Where to Find page.
Always follow the instructions on the product label, and ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Yes, children can benefit from probiotics. There are a number of HOWARU® probiotics that have been specifically studied in children. Visit our Children’s Health section for more information.