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Our Probiotic Strains

Specific probiotic strains for specific conditions

At OptiBac Probiotics we specialise entirely in probiotics, and in particular we use specific probiotic strains to target specific health conditions. Recognising that different types of probiotics can have different beneficial effects on the body, we aim to offer each of our customers a specific probiotic formula in order to support your individual health needs.

What is a probiotic strain?

The term ‘strain’ refers to a biological variety of a species; a species in turn exists within a genus.  For example in our product For a flat stomach, the name Lactobacillus acidophilus Rosell-52 tells you the name of the genus (Lactobacillus), the species (acidophilus), and the strain (Rosell-52).  Different probiotic manufacturers use different strains, although these may be of the same species and genera; meaning that one acidophilus supplement is not equal to another acidophilus supplement.  It is hence best to choose a probiotic supplement that uses robust, well researched strains.

Many of our probiotic strain names include 'Rosell' as they originated from, and have been rigorously tested by, the leading probiotic firm, Institut Rosell.  The example above, L. acidophilus NCFM®, is thought to be one of the most researched probiotic strains in the world.  Find out more about Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM®. 

For further clarification on the difference between a genus, a species and a strain, please see the relevant terms in our glossary.

Viable, effective strains

As well as selecting the optimum probiotic strains to target your personal health needs, it is important to consider the viability and efficacy of the probiotic strains themselves.  In order to be an effective probiotic the strains must be live at the time of consumption, and must survive the stomach acidity and biliary salts in order to reach the intestines.  It is furthermore important that the probiotic strains are capable of adhering to the gut wall lining, so that they can in turn multiply and colonise the gut with good bacteria.  The OptiBac Probiotics’ strains undergo numerous tests documenting their viability at room temperature, their ability to survive the acidic stomach environment and bile salts, and their adhesion capabilities inside the gut.

Featured OptiBac Strains

Lactobacillus acidophilus Rosell-52 can be found in 5 of the 9 OptiBac Probiotics formulas.  Acidophilus is one of the most  documented probiotic species, and is often used to reduce the occurrence of yeast infections, to calm the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), and to reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea.  Furthermore, we do a different acidophilus strain, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® which is thought to be the most researched strain of acidophilus in the world.  This strain can be found in our premium probiotic, For daily wellbeing EXTRA Strength.

Bifidobacterium infantis Rosell-33. This strain has been scientifically demonstrated to inhibit the adhesion of harmful strains of E.coli in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby supporting a healthier immune system in infants and children. Unlike in adults, an infant’s intestinal microbiota is susceptible to many changes, and this delicate balance between beneficial (probiotic) and pathogenic bacteria in a child’s gut contributes to their overall health and immunity. Unlike L. acidophilus, B. infantis mainly resides in the large intestine or colon. Bifidobacterium infantis Rosell-33 is one of the key ingredients in For your child's health.

Saccharomyces boulardii Unique28 S. boulardii is an internationally acclaimed probiotic yeast that works in a very different manner to our other strains.  Saccharomyces boulardii is actually transient, and has undergone rigorous clinical research to demonstrate is ability to bind to and flush out pathogenic bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, naturally working against diarrhoea.  S. boulardii can be used For bowel calm and control when you need it most.  It has also shown to have strong anti-inflammatory properties and to help prevent fungal overgrowth from yeasts such as Candida albicans.