PlayInfoBox

Home /Education /Probiotics Basics: What They Are and How They Work

Probiotics Basics: What They Are and How They Work

Click a card to learn more about probiotics and gut health.

Probiotics vs. prebiotics

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that provide a health benefit when consumed in adequate amounts, while prebiotics are fiber-type compounds that feed those beneficial bacteria and help them multiply in the gut.

The gut microbiome and digestion/immunity

The gut hosts hundreds of species and tens of trillions of microbes. This gut microbiome aids digestion, and since roughly 70% of immune cells are located around the gut, it also broadly influences immune function.

Common probiotic strains

Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the genera most commonly used in yogurt and probiotic supplements. Different strains vary somewhat in how well they survive in the gut and in their expected effects.

Fermented foods vs. supplements

Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and miso deliver probiotics alongside a range of other nutrients naturally, while supplements let you consistently consume a specific strain at a chosen concentration β€” the right choice depends on your goal.

Why surviving stomach acid matters

For beneficial bacteria to have an effect, they need to survive the highly acidic stomach environment and reach the intestines alive, so it helps to check whether a product has enteric coating or acid-resistant strains listed.

General guidance on timing

Taking probiotics on an empty stomach or before a meal, when stomach acid is relatively lower, is commonly thought to improve the odds of live bacteria reaching the intestines β€” though recommended timing can vary by product, so check the label.

Probiotics: a key partner for gut health

Tens of trillions of microbes live in the human gut, and the balance of this ecosystem strongly affects digestion and immune function. Probiotics are the beneficial bacteria that help support this balance, which is why it helps to know which foods and habits support a healthy gut environment.

A note on this information

This page summarizes general nutrition knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or individualized dietary counseling. If you have digestive conditions or other symptoms, consult a doctor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take probiotics every day for them to work?

Probiotics generally do not colonize the gut permanently and are often cleared out over time, so consistent, ongoing intake is typically recommended if you want a sustained effect.

Can I take probiotics while on antibiotics?

Antibiotics can reduce both harmful and beneficial bacteria indiscriminately, so many people take probiotics alongside them β€” but it is generally recommended to space out the dosing times, so check with a doctor or pharmacist about how to take them.