Our body naturally houses billions of living microorganisms (primarily yeasts and bacteria), most of which reside in our intestines and are known as probiotics. They form our gut microbiota, an essential element of our health. It is therefore important to take care of them, and dietary supplements are part of the solutions. Here’s everything you need to know.
What do probiotics do for your body?
The primary action of probiotics is to strengthen the number of beneficial bacteria in our gut, which influences our overall health. When consumed in sufficient amounts, they help maintain a healthy balance of the intestinal flora. This supports good digestion and optimal nutrient absorption.
The probiotics also stimulate the production of minerals, vitamins, and substances like certain fatty acids that have beneficial effects on intestinal health. They can also strengthen the intestinal immune barriers and thus help prevent infections.
Some dietary supplements are specifically designed to help you care for your microbiota. They can be taken in cycles at certain periods of life.
What are the benefits of probiotics?
The benefits of probiotics are numerous:
- They boost the body’s immune defenses, helping it fight everyday infections. They also help reduce inflammation in the body and fight diseases more effectively.
- They improve digestion, making it smoother, and help combat bloating. They also reduce constipation and diarrhea.
- They promote the absorption of essential nutrients, thereby improving overall well-being.
- They help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and contribute to better mental health.
- They help regulate appetite and satiety, improve metabolism, and assist with weight management when combined with a varied and balanced diet.
- They contribute to healthier skin and a glowing complexion by reducing skin inflammation.
- They support a balanced vaginal flora and help counter discomfort such as yeast infections or bacterial vaginosis.
It is important to note that not all probiotics have the same effects. Indeed, the benefits observed depend on the strains used, their combinations, and their dosage.
When should you take a probiotic supplement?
It is recommended to take probiotics in certain situations:
- During periods of fatigue or stress: to support the body.
- After an antibiotic course: to restore the microbiota balance.
- In case of digestive issues: to prevent bloating, gas, constipation, etc.
- In winter, to boost the immune defenses and better protect against infections.
- After an infectious episode or a illness such as gastroenteritis: to strengthen the intestines.
- During pregnancy and breastfeeding: to maintain a healthy gut microbiota in pregnant or nursing women and their babies.
- In cases of food intolerances: to improve the digestion of fiber and lactose.
- To maintain general health: supporting healthy weight, clear skin, mental well-being, and more.
Overview of the Lescuyer Laboratory Probiotic Range
With more than 30 years of expertise, the Lescuyer Laboratory offers a line of probiotics designed to address a wide range of issues:
Stomach discomfort, antibiotic use, SIBO* (gastrointestinal disorder characterized by an excessive proliferation of bacteria in the small intestine): BACTIVIT Equilibre ATB
- Combination of probiotics + yeast to help preserve the balance of the intestinal microbiota
- Three rigorously selected probiotic strains: Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp lactis
- One yeast strain among the most studied in the world: Saccharomyces boulardii
- Scientifically proven efficacy: 90% satisfaction within 10 days for digestive comfort (1)
- Easy to take: capsule
Bloating, difficult digestion, irritable bowel syndrome: BACTIVIT Confort
- Combination of probiotics + prebiotics to help limit intestinal discomfort
- Four rigorously selected probiotic strains: Streptococcus thermophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus delbrueckii ssp. bulgaricus, Lactobacillus helveticus
- Optimal dose of prebiotics
- Scientifically proven efficacy: 77% report feeling less bloated (2)
- Easy to swallow: sachet to dissolve in water
Constipation, slow transit: BACTIVIT Transit
- Combination of probiotics + fiber to help stimulate transit and promote regular bowel movements
- Five rigorously selected probiotic strains: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
- Chicory inulin at a clinically effective dose
- Gentle, non-irritating formula
- Easy to swallow: sachet to dissolve in water
Weakened immune defenses: BACTIVIT Defenses
- Combination of probiotics + vitamins C and D to support normal immune system function.
- Three rigorously selected probiotic strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium bifidum Rosell-71, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis LAFTI B94
- Twofold action: prevent and act at the first signs
- Practical and portable format: orodispersible stick, take without water
- Suitable for the whole family from age 4
Dysbiosis in intimate areas: urinary discomfort, heightened sensitivity to infections, irritation, dryness: HARMOLINE Intimate Flora
- Clinically tested combination (3): probiotics + lactoferrin
- Three rigorously selected probiotic strains: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (HN001®), Lactobacillus crispatus, Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14®)
- One yeast strain studied for vaginal balance (4): Saccharomyces boulardii
- Local and systemic action: vaginal and intestinal microbiota
- Impact on bacterial and fungal microbiota
- Easy to take: capsule
The expertise of the Lescuyer Laboratory also guarantees the stability and viability of probiotic strains, notably thanks to formats such as gastro-resistant capsules or sealed sachets/sticks.
References:
(1) Study conducted by an independent institute among 150 subjects supplemented with BACTIVIT Equilibre ATB for 1 month.
(2) Study conducted by an independent laboratory among 105 subjects supplemented for 3 months with BACTIVIT Confort.
(3) Clinical study on the effect of the strains Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (HN001®) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14®) with lactoferrin on intimate comfort, Superti F & De Seta F. Microorganisms (2020).
(4) Bohbot JM & Zhioua F. Gynecol Obstet Fertil Senol (2021). 49(9): 716-723.
