Probiotic Supplements For Men


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Probiotic Supplements For MenBy now most of us know that probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help to maintain overall gut health and boost the immune system. But recent research shows that probiotics are also beneficial for preventing and managing health issues specific to men such as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Prostate Cancer.

Probiotics also help to lower the level of cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease in men. So, taking a probiotic supplement on a daily basis is an assured way to improve overall health.

Some of the questions that you might confront while choosing a probiotic supplement are How to select a probiotic supplement for men? What are the best probiotic supplements for men? In this article, we have answered all these questions and rounded up a list of the best probiotic supplements for men to help you make a choice.

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Why Men Need To Take Probiotic Supplement?

1. Maintain Prostate Health

Not many of us know that probiotics play an important role in preventing and managing various prostate conditions such as prostatitis and benign prostatic hyperplasia and it is also used as a part of prostate cancer treatment. The microorganisms help to treat these issues by controlling inflammation and boosting immune function.

In a study conducted on 40 men under radiation treatment for prostate cancer, it was seen that those who were given a capsule containing L. acidophilus twice daily had significantly lower median rectal volume and PVCR values compared to the group that took a placebo. PVCR is an important factor in prostate cancer treatment that has shows the accuracy and effectiveness of radiation treatment. This study showed that L. acidophilus reduced PVCR.

2. Urinary Tract Health

Although, Male urinary tract infection is less common compared to Urinary tract infections in women, but it is an issue all the same. Urinary tract infections in men are one of the main causes of bacterial prostatitis. Although, men can get UTIs at any age, but those aged over 50 are more susceptible due to their already increasing prostate issues. In most cases, UTIs in men are caused due to obstruction in the urinary tract. A growing body of research supports the theory that probiotics can help to prevent recurring UTIs in men. A research review published in the European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences in 2004 investigated the Lactobacillus strains and found promising information about their ability to prevent UTIs.

3. Cardiovascular Health

According to the Center for Disease Control cardiovascular disease is the main cause of death among men in the United States. Men are susceptible to heart disease irrespective of their age. The risk is directly related to their family history, activity level, dietary habits and other factors. But according to experts, probiotic supplements can provide promising assistance in improving cardiovascular health. As per a report in the Oct-Dec, 2010 Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research, probiotics can help to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. Probiotics produce an acid that signals the body to produce less cholesterol in the liver. Another research review published in Experimental Diabetes Research in 2012 also confirms the cholesterol lowering effect of probiotics. According to this review, specific strains of bacteria – L. reuteri, L. acidophilus and L. Plantarum lower the level of triglycerides in the blood, remove cholesterol and reduce cholesterol assimilation respectively.

4. Strengthen the Bones

Although, it is believed that women are more susceptible to osteoporosis and bone diseases after menopause, statics of the National Osteoporosis Foundation show that 1 in every 4 men over the age of 50 years are at risk of breaking a bone due to bone loss. Here also, the humble probiotics can help save the day by improving bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis in men. In a study conducted at the Michigan University, male mice that were fed probiotics showed considerable increase in bone density after 4 weeks. But the results were not same in case of female mice. This is why it’s also equally important for women and pregnant women to take probiotic supplements.

5. Yeast Infections

Although, yeast infections in men are less compared to women, but they do happen and in most causes it spreads to men through sexual intercourse. Powerful antibiotics may weaken the immune system and make men more susceptible to yeast infections. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), taking a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus can empower the body after an antibiotics course and prevent yeast infections.

6. Weight Loss

Taking a probiotic supplement can help to reduce body weight as well as body mass index. In a new meta-analysis published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, researchers combined the findings of 25 randomized trials of over 1900 healthy adults. It was seen that taking more than one type of probiotics for 8 weeks or more resulted in greater amount of weight loss. Probiotics also helped to improve blood sugar control and reduced appetite.

7. Anxiety and Mood Disorders

Research shows that probiotics can reduce anxiety and lower levels of stress and depression in men. This should come as no surprise because a significant level of both serotonin and dopamine, the two mood controlling hormones are found in the gut. In small study involving 40 people with mood disorders, it was seen that people who took a probiotic supplement containing L. Helveticus and B. longum every night for a month felt happier and were less affected by negative events compared to those who took a placebo.

Which Probiotic Strains Are Best for Men?

Some of the most common probiotics included in supplements designed for men are lactobacilli, streptococci, and Bifidobacteria.

1. Lactobacillus acidophilus

This is one of the most beneficial bacteria used in probiotic supplements. It produces an enzyme called amylase that helps to break down carbohydrates. This bacterium also helps to prevent lactose intolerance and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

2. Lactobacillus brevis

This strain possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that can treat oral ulcers. The possible anti-cancer property of this bacterium was seen in animals that had a significant suppression of tumor formation and reduced DNA damage.

  • bulgaricus – This strain serves numerous functions in the digestive tract. It releases a substance that changes the pH of the gastrointestinal tract which destroys the pathogens. It also prevents the pathogens from sticking to the walls of the intestines and reduces the risk of infections. It also boosts immune system function.
  • rhamnosus – Also known as L.rhamnosus GG, it has the ability to support immune system function, maintain healthy digestive tract and fight off germs and bacteria in the urinary tract. This strain is bile stable and highly tolerant of harsh acidic environment of the digestive tract.
  • casei – L. Casei supports the growth of L. acidophilus. It is also combined with other probiotic strains to relieve antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

3. Lactococcus lactis

This strain is widely used in dairy industry for the production of cheese and other fermented dairy products. It produces a specific type of protein and reduces inflammation.

  • paracasei – This strain has the capacity to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and also relieve the symptoms of common cold and flu.

4. Bifidobacterium longu

This is one of the most well-researched stains that helps to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea. It also possesses anticancer properties. A study conducted on rats with colon cancer showed that B.longum stopped the growth of the cancerous tumour and prevent the spread of cancer. It also helps to reduce lactose intolerance and lower the level of cholesterol in the blood.

  • bifidum – This is yet another extensively studied strain that helps to relieve health problems in children and infants. It helps to improve immune response and fight off allergic diseases such as eczema. It also helps to reduce cholesterol level in the blood.

5. Streptococcus thermophile

This strain prevents the conversion of nitrates into nitrites, which can otherwise lead to cancer. It also helps to reduce high cholesterol levels in the blood, specifically harmful LDL cholesterol.

How We Selected the Probiotic Supplements?

We searched for the most popular probiotic supplements from reliable online retailers such as Amazon along with product recommendations from specialists and bloggers.

We Checked Guaranteed Viability – Although, most supplements promise a high CFUs count at the time of manufacturing, but what’s the guarantee that those bacteria will stay alive when we consume the supplement or till its expiry date. Bacteria are living organisms that die over time. So, we have chosen only those supplements that state their level of potency at the time of expiration and have considerable shelf-life, so that you don’t pay for dead bacteria.

We cut out Supplements with Junk Ingredients – There are probiotic supplements that add artificial sweeteners, preservatives, additives and fillers that have no health benefits and some might even be harmful. We rejected the supplements that contain these ingredients.

Best Probiotic Supplements For Men

1. Garden of Life Whole Food Probiotic for Men

It has been specially designed for men that provides prostate support, improves heart health, relieves stress, maintains bowel regularity and supports colon health.

This probiotic supplement has an impressive ingredients list – it contains 31 different microorganism strains along with vitamins C, E, D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12. Each serving of this supplement provides 85 billion probiotic cells.
This is a 100% vegetarian probiotic supplement that is free from binders, fillers, carriers, soy, gluten and allergens.

The manufacturer guarantees the potency and stability of the supplement, but it is recommended to refrigerate the container.

Pros:

  • Contains 31 different microorganism strains
  • Provides 85 billion probiotic cells per serving
  • Contains vitamins C, E, D, B1, B2, B6, B9 and B12
  • Rich in iodine, selenium, magnesium, chromium and molybdenum
  • Supports prostate health
  • Contains enzymes that aids the digestion of dairy
  • RAW, Gluten free and Soy free

Cons:

  • Needs to be refrigerated
  • 1 serving equals to 3 capsules
  • Can cause gas and bloating

2. Udo’s Choice – Advanced Adult’s Blend Probiotic

This probiotic supplement includes 7 specially selected strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that are designed to meet the digestive needs of adults and seniors.

Each capsule has a minimum of 17 billion viable cells at the time of manufacture and at least 10 billion viable cells at date of expiry.

This supplement supports healthy development of flora in the small and large intestine and aid proper digestion.

All the bacteria strains included in this supplement have been specially developed and tested for gastric resistance.

It is recommended to keep the supplement refrigerated to ensure prolong shelf life.

Pros:

  • Specifically designed for seniors
  • Contains 7 different strains
  • Provides 10 billion viable cells per serving till date of expiry
  • Tested probiotic strains have high gastric resistance and can survive stomach acids

Cons:

  • Needs to be refrigerated

3. Renew Life Adult 50+ Probiotic Ultimate Flora

This is a high potency probiotic supplement for adults that contains 10 scientifically studied Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains and provide 30 billion active bacteria per serving.

This supplement not only supports digestive health and promotes regularity, but also improves immune health.

This is a 100% vegetarian supplement free from gluten, soy, dairy, eggs, nuts, GMOs and artificial ingredients.

This supplement has been manufactured in a GMP facility which guarantees the quality, purity and potency of the product.

This supplement needs to be refrigerated to maintain its potency and shelf life.

Pros:

  • Contains 10 scientifically studied strains
  • Provides 30 billion active bacteria per serving
  • Promotes immune system health
  • Free of fillers, allergens and harmful ingredients

Cons:

  • Needs refrigeration

4. Garden of Life Whole Food Probiotic for Men 50

This is a high-potency whole food probiotic supplement that is age and gender-specific.

This unique formulation contains 32 different clinically studied probiotic strains including L. fermentum and B. animalis sub. Lactis that are designed to meet the unique health needs of men aged over 50.

Each serving of this supplement provides 85 billion CFUs of live culture along with vitamins C, E, E, B-complex vitamins, calcium, magnesium, copper, selenium, etc. RAW whole food probiotic blend and dairy-digesting enzyme blend.

This supplement helps to maintain healthy cholesterol level in the blood, support immune function and helps to break down lactose and casein.

Being a RAW probiotic, this supplement is untreated and unadulterated and it contains no binders, fillers or carriers.

It is recommended to refrigerate the supplement to maintain optimum potency.

Pros:

  • RAW Whole Food Probiotic Supplement
  • Targeted for Men over 50 years of age
  • Contains 32 different clinically studied probiotic strains
  • Each serving provides 85 billion CFUs of live culture
  • Contains vitamins, minerals and enzymes blend
  • Arrive Alive Potency Promise
  • No Binders, fillers or carriers

Cons:

  • 1 serving equals to 3 capsules
  • Needs to be refrigerated

5. Udo’s Choice Adult’s Blend Probiotic Capsules

This is yet another age-specific probiotic supplement that features 6 adult-specific strains that support healthy digestive and immune system and ensure overall good health in adults.

It contains the strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that have highest survival and colonization rates.

Each capsule of this supplement contains 17 billion viable cells at the time of manufacture and 10 billion viable cells per capsule at the date of expiry.

This supplement is non-GMO, gluten and corn free.

It is recommended to store the supplement in the fridge to ensure maximum potency and stability of the live bacterial cells.

Pros:

  • Age-specific probiotic supplement for adults
  • Contains 6 adult-specific human-adapted strains
  • The strains have highest survival and colonization rates
  • It delivers 10 billion viable cells per capsule at date of expiry
  • The supplement is non-GMO, gluten-free and corn-free

Cons:

  • Needs to be refrigerated to maintain stability and potency

6. Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Men

This probiotic supplement has been formulated by Dr. David Perlmutter, America’s brain-health expert, an expert in the human microbiome, a board-certified neurologist and Fellow of the American College of Nutrition.

This is a unique shelf-stable probiotic supplement contains 15 different probiotic strains that help to maintain a healthy microbiome in the gut.

This supplement contains diverse strains including Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria that are resistant to bile and stomach acids and help to support colon healthy, boost the immune system and reduce gas and bloating.

Each serving of this supplement provides 50 billion CFUs of live culture.

It is a 100% vegetarian and hypoallergenic supplement that is dairy free, gluten free and soy free.

Pros:

  • Contains 15 raw probiotic strains
  • Each serving provides 50 billion CFUs of live culture
  • Easy one-capsule-a-day formula
  • Shelf-stable potency promise
  • Vegetarian supplement free from dairy, gluten and soy

Cons:

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7. Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic

This is the perfect probiotic supplement for those who need a gentle digestive boost and suitable for everyday long term use.

This supplement contains just 1 strain of bacteria – Lactobacillus GG along with Chicory root extract that supports digestive health, reduces digestive upset and constipation and improves immune function. It also helps to treat liver and gallbladder disorders.

Each serving of this supplement provides 10 billion active probiotic cultures to the intestine.

The manufacturer guarantees the purity and potency of the supplement during manufacturing time and during consumption.

This supplement does not contain any preservatives, gluten, soy, milk or wheat.

Pros:

  • Provides 10 billion active probiotic cultures per serving
  • 100% vegetarian supplement
  • Does not contains soy, gluten, milk, wheat or preservatives
  • Easy one-capsule-a-day formula
  • Contains Chicory root extract
  • Can be given to children

Cons:

  • Contains just 1 strain

So, we know that including a probiotic supplement in your daily routine is one of the best ways to give a boost to your gut microbiome and improve your digestive health, immune system, heart health and prostate health. And when it comes to choosing a probiotic supplement for this purpose, it is best to select a product that is specially formulated for men’s specific health needs.

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