This health article has been professionally reviewed by Dt Fiona Lai, a registered dietitian of the Malaysian Dietitians’ Association (MDA).
Probiotics have gained significant attention and increasing demand in recent years across the globe. However, with the vast array of probiotic products available, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. This article provides four essential tips to help you select the right probiotic according to your needs.
1. Identify Your Health Goals
Before choosing a probiotic, determine the specific benefits you seek. Different probiotic strains are associated with various health outcomes.
- Digestive health: For conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or diarrhea, strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium bifidum may be beneficial [1]. These strains help restore the balance of gut bacteria and improve digestive function.
- Immune support: To bolster your immune system during common cold or respiratory tract infections, consider probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium animalis [2].
- Skin health: For skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, probiotics with Lactobacillus may be helpful. [3]
2. Consider the Strain and Species of Probiotics
When selecting a probiotic, three key factors to consider are the genus, species, and strain designation. While the genus name (e.g., Lactobacillus) provides general information, it’s the specific species and strain (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus that determines its unique properties. However, public awareness regarding the selection of probiotics based on specific strain designations remains low, necessitating further educational initiatives.
Research the specific information of probiotic strain in the product you’re considering to ensure they align with your health goals. Probiotics are most effective when supported by clinical research specific to the strain. Research provides evidence of how well a particular strain works for certain conditions. For instance, a 2024 clinical trial published in Digestive Diseases and Sciences found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG significantly improved IBS symptoms, including abdominal pain and bloating [1]. When selecting a probiotic product aligned with your individual health needs, it is advisable to consult the Best Practices Guidelines for Probiotics (2017) created by the Council for Responsible Nutrition and IPA.
Consult a healthcare professional or refer to a relevant probiotic guideline to help determine which probiotic is best suited for your health condition.
3. Check the Quality and Purity of Probiotic
The probiotic matrix, or the medium in which the bacteria are cultured, plays a crucial role in protecting the probiotics during manufacturing, storage, and consumption. A high-quality matrix can help ensure the viability of the bacteria, even at lower CFU counts. While a specific “probiotic quality” certification might not be widely present, look for general quality certifications or GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) certifications on the manufacturer’s website or packaging.
CFU Counts: Refers to the number of alive and active microorganisms in one serving of a probiotic dietary supplement.
Meanwhile, choose probiotics from well-established brands that adhere to good manufacturing practices (GMP). Reputable brands often provide third-party testing results to verify the quality and purity of their products. For probiotic products registered as health supplements, look for a registration number starting with “MAL” followed by eight digits and ending with a letter (e.g., MALxxxxxxxxxN).
Selecting a high-quality probiotic with verified ingredients ensures that you are investing in a product that is both effective and safe for your health.
4. Consult a Healthcare Professional
If you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting a probiotic supplement. They can assess your individual needs and provide personalized recommendations. This is especially important if you have:
- Underlying health conditions: Probiotics may interact with certain medications or health conditions. A healthcare professional can assess your specific situation and provide personalized advice.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Some probiotic strains may not be suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you make informed decisions.
- Immune system disorders: If you have an autoimmune disorder or a weakened immune system, certain probiotics may need to be avoided.
- Digestive issues: A healthcare professional can diagnose underlying digestive problems and recommend appropriate probiotic strains.
Conclusion
A comprehensive assessment of a probiotic supplement should also consider the specific strains and the probiotic matrix. Consult further opinion from healthcare professionals so you can select a product that is tailored to your individual needs and offers the greatest potential for health benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
References
[1]. Kim, H., & Lee, S. (2024). Efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 69(2), 350-359. DOI:10.1007/s10620-023-07654-8.
[2] National Institute of Health. (2025). Dietary Supplements for Immune Function and Infectious Diseases. [Fact Sheet]. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ImmuneFunction-HealthProfessional/
[3] Wang and Xu (2025). The impact of prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics on the prevention and treatment of atopic dermatitis in children: an umbrella meta-analysis. Frontiers in Pediatrics. 13, 2296-2360.
