You likely already know that probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to your health, especially your digestive system. These "good" microorganisms help maintain the natural balance of microflora in your intestines. Imbalances can lead to digestive issues, infections, and other health problems.
Most probiotics belong to three genera: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and probiotic yeast.
Lactobacillus species, found in the digestive, urinary, and genital systems, are known for producing lactic acid, which inhibits harmful bacteria and supports the immune system.
Bifidobacterium species, predominantly residing in the intestines, play a crucial role in digestion by breaking down dietary fiber and producing beneficial short-chain fatty acids like butyrate. These probiotics, including Saccharomyces boulardii probiotics, help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, contributing to overall digestive and immune health.
Probiotic Yeast vs. Probiotic Bacteria
Probiotic yeast and probiotic bacteria differ primarily in their type and function within the gut. Probiotic yeast, such as Saccharomyces boulardii, is a resilient fungus that can withstand harsh conditions like stomach acid and antibiotics. It also helps balance the gut flora. In contrast, probiotic bacteria, primarily from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium groups, are live bacteria that support digestion, boost the immune system, and maintain a balanced gut microbiome. While probiotic yeast is more robust, probiotic bacteria play a crucial role in everyday gut health.
While Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are well-known, Saccharomyces boulardii, a unique and beneficial yeast, stands out. Unlike bacterial probiotics, Saccharomyces boulardii is a non-pathogenic yeast extensively studied for its therapeutic properties. The Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic was first isolated in 1923 by French scientist Henri Boulard from lychee and mangosteen fruits in Southeast Asia. He observed that locals used the fruit's skin to treat cholera, a finding that led to the identification of this specific yeast strain.
What exactly is Saccharomyces Boulardii?
Saccharomyces boulardii is a tropical strain of yeast, classified under the larger species of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is widely recognized for its probiotic properties, particularly supporting gastrointestinal health. Unlike typical yeasts associated with fermentation, such as S. cerevisiae used in baking and brewing, Saccharomyces boulardii is specifically cultivated for therapeutic use as a Saccharomyces boulardii supplement.
One of the key differences between Saccharomyces boulardii and bacterial probiotics is its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. Saccharomyces boulardii exhibits unique mechanisms of action distinct from bacterial probiotics. It competes with pathogenic microorganisms for binding sites on the intestinal mucosa and nutrients, effectively inhibiting their growth. Additionally, Saccharomyces boulardii secretes beneficial enzymes like proteases, which help break down toxins and biofilms produced by harmful bacteria such as Clostridium difficile. This ability to neutralize pathogens while supporting gut integrity makes Saccharomyces boulardii a powerful tool in maintaining digestive health.
Dysbiosis and Saccharomyces Boulardii
Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the microbial community of the gut, which can disrupt normal gastrointestinal function and overall health. The gut microbiome is a complex ecosystem of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms that play crucial roles in digestion, immune function, and metabolic processes. An imbalance in this delicate ecosystem can lead to digestive discomfort, immune system dysfunction, and mood disorders.
Symptoms of Dysbiosis
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Gas and Bloating
One common symptom of dysbiosis is increased gas and bloating. When the gut balance is affected, an overgrowth of gas-producing bacteria can occur, leading to uncomfortable symptoms such as abdominal bloating, distension, and excessive gas. These symptoms can affect daily comfort and digestion, resulting in discomfort and a reduced quality of life.
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Mood Changes
The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system between the gut and the brain, playing a crucial role in mental and emotional well-being. You can click here to read an article that will explain your gut-brain axis in greater detail, but here’s brief overview. When it comes to your mental health, your gut microbiome is vitally important. A deficiency in your biome can disrupt this balance, potentially leading to mood changes such as irritability.
Imbalances in gut bacteria can affect the production and signaling of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which play a key role in regulating mood. This disruption can impact emotional stability and well-being, emphasizing the importance of a balanced gut microbiome for both digestive and mental health.
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Skin Issues
Gut health has a profound impact on skin health, as the gut microbiome influences inflammation and immune responses. Saccharomyces boulardii plays a role in maintaining this balance, and its deficiency can contribute to various skin issues. Inflammatory skin conditions or rashes may arise as a result of dysbiosis. The imbalance of gut bacteria can lead to systemic inflammation, which manifests in the skin as irritations, redness, or outbreaks.
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Toenail Fungus
Did you know that Toenail fungus can be influenced by gut health? Saccharomyces boulardii can help regulate the growth of fungal organisms in the gut, and its deficiency may lead to an imbalance that promotes fungal overgrowth, including toenail fungus. This condition is characterized by thickened, discolored (yellowed or browned), and brittle toenails, which can be both uncomfortable, malodorous and unsightly.
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Bowel Pattern and Consistency
Probiotic yeast supports healthy bowel movements and stool consistency. A deficiency may lead to changes in bowel patterns, affecting digestive health and overall comfort. Restoring balanced levels of beneficial yeast can help normalize bowel function and improve stool consistency.
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Yeast Imbalance in the Gut
Candida albicans is a type of yeast that naturally exists in the human body, particularly in the gut, mouth, and skin. Under normal conditions, Candida is part of a balanced microbiome, coexisting with other microorganisms. However, when this balance is disrupted, Candida can rapidly grow excessively, leading to what is commonly referred to as Candida overgrowth. This overgrowth can occur due to various factors, including diet, stress, or changes in the gut environment.
Saccharomyces boulardii supports a healthy gut environment. Unlike Candida, which can sometimes overgrow, Saccharomyces boulardii helps maintain a balanced microbiome. By promoting a healthy gut flora, it may help keep yeast levels, including Candida, within a normal range.
Best Probiotic with Saccharomyces Boulardii
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Strain Specificity:
When selecting a probiotic supplement containing Saccharomyces boulardii, it is essential to consider strain specificity. The strain Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-3799 is the most researched and has demonstrated positive results. Potency is also crucial, with supplements needing to provide a sufficient colony-forming unit (CFU) count to be effective. Additionally, certified lab testing ensures purity and the absence of contaminants, which is vital for consumer safety.
Superior Quality of the Lynside® CNCM I-3799 Strain
Lynside® CNCM I-3799 is a patented strain of Saccharomyces boulardii, recognized for its exceptional quality and efficacy. Developed through rigorous research, Lynside® stands out due to its genetic identity guarantee, which ensures each batch contains the exact strain clinically tested for effectiveness. Advanced testing methods verify this genetic identity, providing consumers with added assurance. Clinical trials have demonstrated Lynside®’s ability to support gut health, immune function, and overall well-being, making it a trusted choice for both consumers and healthcare professionals.
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Potency:
The potency of a probiotic supplement is typically measured by its CFU count, which stands for colony-forming units. CFUs represent the number of viable microorganisms in each dose that are capable of forming colonies in the gut. A higher CFU count generally indicates a more potent probiotic, but it's crucial that the dosage is clinically relevant. This means the CFU count should match the levels used in scientific studies that have demonstrated health benefits. Choosing a probiotic with an appropriate CFU count ensures that you’re getting an effective dose that can truly support your gut health.
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Probiotic Combinations
Combining Saccharomyces boulardii with other probiotics may enhance its efficacy. For example, pairing it with Lactobacillus or Bifidobacterium species can provide a broader spectrum of benefits, supporting both yeast and bacterial balance in the gut. However, it's important to choose combinations that have been clinically tested to ensure they work synergistically rather than competitively.
Tips for Optimal Use
Proper dosage and timing are critical for the effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii supplements. For daily maintenance, a lower dose may suffice, while therapeutic doses are recommended by medical professionals for addressing specific conditions. Storage is also important; while Saccharomyces boulardii is heat-stable, refrigeration may extend its shelf life.
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Daily Supplementation
Incorporating Saccharomyces boulardii into your daily routine can be simple. For maintenance, a lower dosage, such as 1-2 capsules daily, is often sufficient. In cases of active treatment, higher doses may be recommended, depending on the specific condition being addressed. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the appropriate dosage for your needs.
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Dietary Sources
Although Saccharomyces boulardii is not typically found in non fermented foods, consuming a diet rich in cultured foods (especially kombucha tea) and prebiotics can support its efficacy. Prebiotics, found in foods like garlic, onions, and asparagus, provide the necessary fuel for probiotics to thrive. Combining Saccharomyces boulardii supplementation with a diet high in fiber and fermented foods can enhance overall gut health and improve the balance of your microbiome.
Some common fermented foods include:
Yogurt: Made from fermented milk, yogurt is rich in live bacterial cultures, primarily Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. It's a popular and accessible probiotic food that supports gut health.
Kefir: A fermented milk drink that contains a diverse range of beneficial bacteria and yeasts, offering a broader spectrum of probiotics than yogurt.
Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage that is packed with Lactobacillus bacteria, known for supporting digestion and immune function.
Kimchi: A spicy fermented Korean dish made from cabbage and other vegetables, rich in probiotics that contribute to gut health.
Kombucha: A fermented tea drink that contains a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), kombucha is praised for its probiotic content and digestive benefits.
Pickles: Naturally fermented pickles, as opposed to those made with vinegar, provide beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut (we like the Bubbies® brand found in most health food stores).
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Lifestyle Considerations
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet is essential for supporting the benefits of Saccharomyces boulardii. Stress, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle can all negatively impact gut health, reducing the efficacy of probiotics. By adopting a holistic approach to health, you can maximize the benefits of Saccharomyces boulardii and support long-term well-being.
In summary, Saccharomyces boulardii is a unique probiotic yeast that offers a wide range of health benefits, particularly for digestive and immune health. Unlike bacterial probiotics, S. boulardii is resistant to antibiotics, heat, and stomach acid, making it a robust option for managing gastrointestinal health. Its ability to compete with pathogens, secrete beneficial enzymes, and support a balanced gut microbiota underscores its importance in maintaining overall health.
Our Favorite Option: Pure Thera’s Saccharomyces 10B™
Saccharomyces 10B™ is a next-level probiotic supplement that’s setting new standards for gut health excellence. Each serving delivers a powerful 10 billion CFUs of the patented Lynside® Saccharomyces boulardii strain CNCM I-3799, renowned for its resilience and efficacy. This advanced strain is proven to survive stomach acid and settle in the intestines, where it supports the good bacteria already present, helping to re-establish balanced microflora.
Saccharomyces 10B is clinically studied to support digestion, immunity, and gut health, particularly during times of inflammation or bowel irregularity. Unlike other products, Saccharomyces 10B is made with strain-verified, genetic typing to ensure maximum potency and effectiveness.
Our formula is room temperature stable, vegan-friendly, lactose-free, and non-GMO, with no refrigeration needed. Safe for children and pets, it’s also free from common allergens like soy and gluten, and contains no fillers or potentially inhibitory additives like magnesium stearate.
Saccharomyces 10B offers a reliable daily dose of 10 billion CFUs, providing superior intestinal support and promoting healthy bowel patterns and stool consistency. This probiotic is unaffected by antibiotics and maintains its efficacy even at body temperature and acidic pH levels.
Benefit from intestinal support with Saccharomyces 10B. Developed in a GMP-certified facility in the USA, this advanced probiotic ensures the highest standards of quality and potency.
References
Czerucka, D., Piche, T., & Rampal, P. (2007). Review article: yeast as probiotics – Saccharomyces boulardii. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 26(6), 767-778.
McFarland, L. V. (2010). Systematic review and meta-analysis of Saccharomyces boulardii in adult patients. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 16(18), 2202-2222.
Kelesidis, T., & Pothoulakis, C. (2012). Efficacy and safety of the probiotic Saccharomyces boulardii for the prevention and therapy of gastrointestinal disorders. Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology, 5(2), 111-125.
Szajewska, H., & Kołodziej, M. (2015). Systematic review with meta-analysis: Saccharomyces boulardii in the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 42(7), 793-801.
Edwards-Ingram, L. C., Gent, M. E., Hoyle, D. C., Hayes, A., Stateva, L. I., & Oliver, S. G. (2007). Comparative genomic hybridization provides new insights into the molecular taxonomy of the Saccharomyces sensu stricto complex. Genome Research, 17(12), 1721-1728.
Buts, J. P., Bernasconi, P., Crivellaro, C., & Maldague, P. (1986). Response of human and rat small intestinal mucosa to oral administration of Saccharomyces boulardii. Pediatric Research, 20(2), 192-196.