Types of probiotics


Types of Probiotics :

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are most commonly from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera but include other types as well.

Classification of Probiotics :

Probiotics can be classified based on:

1. Microbial type (bacteria or yeast)
2. Genus and species.
3. Form (single strain, multi-strain, or synbiotic)


1. Bacterial Probiotics

a. Lactobacillus species

> Most widely used probiotics

> Commonly found in the gut, mouth, and fermented foods

Examples:

Lactobacillus acidophilus – improves lactose digestion, reduces diarrhea

Lactobacillus rhamnosus – prevents antibiotic-associated diarrhea

Lactobacillus casei – supports immune function

Lactobacillus plantarum – anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties

Lactobacillus reuteri – helps treat colic and dental health

b. Bifidobacterium species:

> Predominant in infants and colon

> Help in immune regulation and digestion

Examples:

Bifidobacterium bifidum – improves gut flora, immune support

Bifidobacterium longum – reduces inflammation

Bifidobacterium breve – alleviates constipation

Bifidobacterium infantis – helps in IBS

c. Bacillus species (Spore-forming):

> Stable, heat-resistant probiotics

> Found in soil, and some are used in supplements

Examples:

Bacillus subtilis

Bacillus coagulans – improves digestion, reduces bloating

d. Streptococcus species

> Some are probiotic; others are pathogenic

Example:

Streptococcus thermophilus – used in yogurt, improves lactose digestion


2. Yeast Probiotics:

a. Saccharomyces boulardii

> A non-pathogenic yeast

> Resistant to antibiotics

> Effective in treating:

> Antibiotic-associated diarrhea

> Clostridium difficile infection

> Traveler’s diarrhea.


3. Next-Generation Probiotics (Emerging Types):

> Include less traditional species, being studied for broader health benefits

Examples:

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii – anti-inflammatory, gut barrier support

Akkermansia muciniphila – improves metabolic health and gut lining

Clostridium butyricum – butyrate producer, supports gut health

4. Synbiotics (Probiotics + Prebiotics):

> Combine probiotics (live microbes) with prebiotics (nondigestible food ingredients that support probiotics)

Example: Lactobacillus + inulin (a dietary fiber)

> Forms of Probiotic Products

> Yogurt and fermented milk

> Capsules and tablets

> Powders and sachets

> Fermented foods (kimchi, kefir, miso)

Infant formulas:

> Criteria for an Effective Probiotic

> Survive gastric acid and bile

> Adhere to intestinal mucosa

> Colonize and multiply

> Be non-pathogenic and safe

>Exert health benefits

Probiotics vary in strain, function, and efficacy. Selection depends on the target condition (e.g., diarrhea, IBS, immune support). As research evolves, newer and more effective strains are being developed for both gut and systemic health.


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