Debunking Probiotic Myths: What Really Matters for Gut Health

Are You Falling for These Probiotic Myths?

Probiotics are a hot topic in the world of gut health, but with so much conflicting information, it’s easy to get misled. Let’s set the record straight by debunking four common myths about probiotics and learning what actually matters when choosing the right one.

Myth #1: More CFUs Means a Better Probiotic

You might have seen probiotic brands boasting millions or even billions of CFUs (Colony Forming Units), but here’s the truth: higher CFUs don’t necessarily mean a better probiotic.

✔ What actually matters? The type and strain of probiotic and the specific benefits it delivers. A clinically studied strain at the right dosage and for the appropriate length of therapy is far more important than simply packing billions of bacteria into a capsule.

For example, Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745®, the probiotic strain in Florastor®, has been clinically studied for over 70 years and has proven gut health benefits—Reinforcing that the right strain at the right dose matters far more than excessive CFUs! *

Myth #2: All Probiotics Reach the Gut

Many people assume that every probiotic they take will survive digestion and provide benefits—but this isn’t always the case.

✔ The reality? Stomach acid and bile acids create a harsh environment, and some probiotics don’t survive long enough to reach the intestines, where they’re needed most.

That’s why it’s essential to choose a strain that can withstand stomach acid and actually reach the gut—like Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, a probiotic yeast that survives the digestive journey to deliver real gut health benefits.*

Myth #3: The More Strains, the Better

Many probiotic supplements advertise a long list of strains, making it seem like more diversity automatically makes it better better. But that’s not necessarily true.

✔ What’s more important? The quality and proven effectiveness of probiotic strains matter far more than simply adding multiple strains for the sake of variety. A single, well-studied strain with clear clinical benefits is far superior to a mix of unproven strains with little or no scientific backing.

Myth #4: All Probiotics Need to Be Refrigerated

It’s a common belief that refrigeration is necessary to keep probiotics alive, but this is only true for certain bacterial strains.

✔ The truth? Not all probiotics require refrigeration—it depends on the specific probiotic strain and the storage/handling conditions including its stability at room temperature. For example, Florastor’s probiotic strain is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration, making it easy to take anywhere.*

What Actually Matters in a Probiotic?

Instead of focusing on CFU count, number of strains, or refrigeration, look for these key factors when choosing a probiotic:

✅ Clinically studied strains—Probiotics should have scientific research backing their benefits.

✅ Survivability—Choose a strain that can withstand stomach acids & bile salts to reach the intestines.

✅ Proven effectiveness—The strain should be studied at the right dosage for the appropriate length of time to deliver real results.

Florastor’s unique probiotic strain, Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, has over 130 clinical studies and 70 years of research supporting gut and immune health.

FAQs About Probiotics

Q: Do probiotics need billions of CFUs to be effective?

A: No, effectiveness depends on the strain and its clinical research, not just the number of CFUs.

Q: Can all probiotics survive stomach and bile acids?

A: No, some probiotics don’t survive digestion. Choose a strain like Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745, which is naturally resistant to stomach acid.

Q: Do I need a probiotic with multiple strains?

A: Not necessarily. One clinically studied strain can be more effective than multiple unproven strains.

Q: Should probiotics be refrigerated?

A: Not always! Some probiotics, like Florastor, are shelf-stable and do not require refrigeration.

Choose a Probiotic That Works

When choosing a probiotic, quality, survivability, and clinical research are what truly matter. Don’t fall for the more is better myth—look for a strain that’s proven to support gut health.

Want to support your gut health with a science-backed probiotic? Try Florastor today!