Probiotics for ENT
We are going to review some probiotics that are helpful specifically for symptoms and diseases I see commonly as an ENT. However, let me be clear that I consider probiotics a supplement. As in, not the primary source, but an additional source…a “helper” if you will. Your nutrition, time outdoors, sleep and daily exposures are key to a healthy gut microbiome (and as you’ll see, a healthy airway microbiome). You can’t probiotic your way out of bad habits! But back to the basics…
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, may confer a health benefit for the person taking them. They support the bacteria that already live inside of us. This is particularly relevant when we need additional support, such as in the setting of nutritional deficiency or after antibiotics (when necessary).
Some basic terms to know:
Strains- examples include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus or Saccharomyces boulardii are among the most studied
Dose (often in CFU-colony forming units)-generally want 1 billion or more
Form (pill, powder)-personal preference, but may be important in children or those who have trouble swallowing pills
Need for refrigeration-some organisms are sensitive to heat and with time the number of CFUs (active organisms) will decrease
Other ingredients-some probiotics are packaged with prebiotics (which is like food for the organisms), but pay attention to amount of sugar added or possible food allergens (check the ingredient label)
Brand reliability, accuracy, safety-Due to the absence of FDA regulation (meaning no required proof of quality, effectiveness, or safety), third party organizations such as US Pharmacopeia and NSF International set standards, test and certify supplements. Other organizations include Consumer Lab and UL. Look for this third party verification on labels. The FDA does suggest standards, and products that meet those requirements will have a GMP (good manufacturing practice) label.
DISCLAIMER:
Probiotic strains were included if there was a study conferring strong evidence to support the health benefits of the probiotic. We considered a positive outcome from a systematic review and meta-analysis, randomized trial or an observational study with a dramatic effect to be considered strong evidence. Specific brands are not provided as they may change and this table is not meant to be a direct endorsement of any particular brand. This table is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice of any variety. The decision to use probiotics should only be made after a conversation with a qualified health provider. This document will be updated as new information becomes available. Please contact me and share the relevant supporting study if you are aware of a probiotic that should be included in this table and is not.
