What are Probiotic Capsules?
Probiotic capsules or supplements are medications available at places like health food and natural foods stores. Each capsule contains tiny bacteria that is alive and that may have some benefit to human health. In particular, people may take probiotic capsules to reduce incidence of yeast infection, to regulate digestion or to assist with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, chronic diarrhea or spastic colon. There is some evidence from the scientific community that some sorts of bacteria are helpful for these conditions, though there are provisos too about taking probiotic supplements.
Many of the probiotic supplements have bacteria that are already found in various areas of the body, like lactobacillus acidophilus or bifobacterium bifidus. There are other ingredients that may be present in probiotic capsules and these can include some common yeasts or other bacteria types. The US Food and Drug Administration does not regulate amount or type of bacteria used or relative safety of these capsules, and there are several questions raised about each different brand’s ability to be effective.
While scientific research has shown some benefit to health of certain forms of bacteria, it isn’t always the case that probiotic capsules contain exactly the same types. This would mean if people are looking for benefits ascribed to a certain bacteria, they ought to look for capsules or supplements that have the same kind and not assume that all supplements will be equal in this respect. It isn’t always necessary to take supplements in order to gain access to these beneficial bacteria. Many foods have them in abundance and may be a more natural and enjoyable means of obtaining them.
There is also some question about probiotic capsules in regard to how well they will travel to areas that require help. A woman taking them to treat a yeast infection may not find this adequate because the bacteria may never reach the vagina. Still, there is much anecdotal evidence that certain probiotic foods and supplements may potentially be helpful in this respect, though there are few clinical double-blind trials to prove this completely.
A significant variety of probiotic capsules exist. Early forms usually required refrigeration to maintain life of bacteria, but some companies now make pills that don’t require this. Many people find that a lot of the supplements available are cultured on things like milk. There are vegetarian and vegan capsules, and most people can find these with a little searching.
Cost on capsules runs from very low priced ones to those quite expensive. Consumers should be aware of inflated claims on supplements that come with higher prices. While probiotic capsules may be helpful, those brands with outlandish claims suggesting they will improve all aspects of health should probably be avoided.
Though most probiotics are thought safe, people who plan to take probiotic capsules regularly should consult their physicians. In particular, those who have other medical conditions or who take other medications should make sure any supplements won’t exacerbate illnesses or interfere with other drugs. Pregnant women should also talk to their doctors about probiotic supplements and parents should ask pediatricians for guidance before giving them to children.
Written by Tricia Ellis-Christensen
