Optimal Probiotic
60 vegetarian capsules
Buy two or more & save 5%
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13 premium strains
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Balanced, clean formula
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Non-GMO, gluten- and dairy-free
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No prebiotics or soil strains
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For various ages
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For overall gut health and well being
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Ingredients
Bifidobacterium infantis
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Bifidobacterium longum
Lactobacillus casei
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Lactobacillus plantarum
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium lactis
Lactobacillus salivarius
Lactobacillus brevis
Lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus paracasei
Microcrystalline cellulose (base for encapsulation)
Vegetarian capsule
Bifidobacterium infantis
B. infantis is a folate-producing beneficial bacteria, primarily found in the gastrointestinal tracts of healthy infants (and human mouths). It seems to play a critical role in establishing a healthy intestinal lining and a robust and well-regulated immune system.* Research suggests B. infantis regulates the production of tryptophan, the precursor for serotonin (the neurotransmitter associated with a sense of satisfaction and happiness).* A note on folate: it's one of the B vitamins responsible for tissue growth and cell function.*
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Perhaps one of the most prominent Lactobacillus bacteria in the gut, research states L. rhamnosus supports a robust respiratory system, helps keep inflammation in check and encourages a healthy intestinal lining.* It's also used in protocols for children and adults with diarrhea and may support mild cases.*
Bifidobacterium longum
One of the first bacteria to colonize our bodies at birth, B. longum has been associated with helping to digest milk and other challenging foods, as it produces lactic acid from the fermentation of sugar in the gut.* Research suggests that B. longum may support immunity and growth in children.* It's also linked to helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels already within a normal range.* And it's been studied to help alleviate minor stress.
Lactobacillus casei
L. casei is found in the human urinary tract and mouth, and in some fermented foods like yogurt, fermented milk and certain cheeses. This strain is commonly used to prevent and treat mild diarrhea and other inflammatory digestive issues.* Another study showed that L. casei was beneficial for people with constipation.* A later study revealed that regular intake of milk fermented with Lactobacillus casei Shirota may improve bowel habits of people with nerve issues.* And, clinical trial researchers found that L. casei supplements may help alleviate symptoms and improve inflammatory cytokines in women with inflammation of the joints.*
Lactobacillus acidophilus
L. acidophilus is a common probiotic, also found in foods like yogurt. It produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide that some troublesome bacteria don't like. Doing so helps keep the community of microbes in the intestines healthy and balanced.* Clinical research has linked L. acidophilus to keeping the urogenital tract sturdy, and immune system strength.*
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacteria are a group of bacteria that typically live in the human intestines and stomach, that help to perform essential functions like digestion and maintaining beneficial bacteria. One study suggests that B. bifidum may support immunity by staving off colds in the winter months.* Another clinical study indicates B. bifidum may help with abdominal discomfort caused by gas and bloating.* And yet another study states that B. bifidum can help with occasional diarrhea.* Clinical research suggests that B. bifidum can help maintain comfortable joint movement.* There's also a correlation to improved mental health, as bifidobacterium is classified as a "psychobiotic", which affects central nervous system-related functions and behaviors mediated by the gut-brain-axis.*
Lactobacillus plantarum
L. plantarum is a plant-based, beneficial probiotic strain naturally found in fermented foods like sauerkraut. Several clinical trials have shown that L. plantarum helps support comfortable digestion, helping to minimize gas and bloating.* One of the most common probiotics, L. plantarum seems to support immune system health.* Not only does L. plantarum stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10, it also seems to stimulate the production of regulatory T-cells.* And, preliminary studies indicate that L. plantarum may help strengthen memory, concentration and mood.*
Bifidobacterium breve
B. breve is one of the most helpful probiotic bacteria in the human body due to its unique ability to compete with harmful bacteria by digesting many molecules. It's also prevalent in the colons of breastfed babies. B. breve is linked to helping with occasional constipation in children.* When combined with a gluten-free (real food) diet, B. breve may promote microbial balance in the children's digestive tracts.* B. breve seems to play a role in helping to establish a healthy microbiome, based on trials involving preterm babies. Clinical research suggests it may be useful in recolonizing the guts of children who have undergone chemotherapy.*
Bifidobacterium lactis
A transient probiotic bacteria that inhabit the human intestines and the colon, B. lactis breaks down body waste and aids in the absorption of various vitamins and minerals. One study showed that B. lactis helped preterm babies gain weight after taking antibiotics, helping develop their immune systems.* Beyond the babies, extensive research has shown that B. lactis is useful for abdominal comfort and proper digestion, helping to get the colon in shape and potentially easing mild constipation.* Notably, preliminary lab research indicates B. lactis shows exciting potential in neutralizing certain toxins from wheat.*
Lactobacillus salivarius
L. salivarius is one of the most prevalent probiotic species in human saliva. It produces organic acids, such as lactic acid and acetic acid from carbohydrates, which can inhibit the growth of surrounding microorganisms, and produce hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial substances. L. salivarius seems to help keep the microbial population in the mouth healthy.* Also, several clinical trials indicate that L. salivarius seems to help regulate the immune system and, as a result, support healthy skin.* Importantly, researchers state that it may keep the vagina healthy and comfortable by promoting a healthy pH balance to treat minor infections and restore healthy vaginal flora.*
Lactobacillus brevis
First isolated from a traditional Japanese pickle, you can also find L. brevis in many fermented foods. It seems to support healthy brain growth by increasing the production of the brain growth hormone, BDNF. Clinical research suggests it also helps with intestinal health and immune strength.* Preliminary research indicates L. brevis can trigger an increase in the production of interferon (a protein released by cells to heighten antiviral defense) in the body, as well as enhance the activity of T cells (which are produced by the thymus gland and actively participate in immune response). One large-scale clinical study showed that L. brevis seemed to make a significant difference in keeping children healthy over the winter season.* Clinical research also suggests it can help support vaginal comfort and health by adhering to vaginal walls and making it an unfriendly environment for troublesome microbes.*
Lactobacillus gasseri
L. gasseri is naturally found in the human digestive and urinary tracts. It's been shown in clinical trials to help people lose weight.* Preliminary research indicates that L. gasseri may inhibit inflammation signaling at the genetic level.* L. gasseri may also support healthy cholesterol levels already within a normal range.*
Lactobacillus paracasei
L. paracasei is a species of lactic acid bacteria used in dairy product fermentation and probiotics. It's been shown to support comfy digestion in several ways by helping to regulate inflammation.* It's also linked to healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure and a balanced immune system.* Researchers found that supplementing with L. paracasei seemed to shift the entire microbiome toward species associated with good health.*
Microcrystalline cellulose (base for encapsulation)
Microcrystalline cellulose is all-natural refined wood pulp. We chose this ingredient to satisfy the needs of our most sensitive customers.
Vegetarian capsule
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), water. Our vegetable (vegan) capsules consist of only two ingredients: HPMC and purified water. HPMC is derived from vegetable cellulose of either pine or poplar. 100% natural, these capsules contain no preservatives, no gelatin, wheat, animal by-products or starch.
Bifidobacterium infantis
Bifidobacterium infantis
B. infantis is a folate-producing beneficial bacteria, primarily found in the gastrointestinal tracts of healthy infants (and human mouths). It seems to play a critical role in establishing a healthy intestinal lining and a robust and well-regulated immune system.* Research suggests B. infantis regulates the production of tryptophan, the precursor for serotonin (the neurotransmitter associated with a sense of satisfaction and happiness).* A note on folate: it's one of the B vitamins responsible for tissue growth and cell function.*
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Perhaps one of the most prominent Lactobacillus bacteria in the gut, research states L. rhamnosus supports a robust respiratory system, helps keep inflammation in check and encourages a healthy intestinal lining.* It's also used in protocols for children and adults with diarrhea and may support mild cases.*
Bifidobacterium longum
Bifidobacterium longum
One of the first bacteria to colonize our bodies at birth, B. longum has been associated with helping to digest milk and other challenging foods, as it produces lactic acid from the fermentation of sugar in the gut.* Research suggests that B. longum may support immunity and growth in children.* It's also linked to helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels already within a normal range.* And it's been studied to help alleviate minor stress.
Lactobacillus casei
Lactobacillus casei
L. casei is found in the human urinary tract and mouth, and in some fermented foods like yogurt, fermented milk and certain cheeses. This strain is commonly used to prevent and treat mild diarrhea and other inflammatory digestive issues.* Another study showed that L. casei was beneficial for people with constipation.* A later study revealed that regular intake of milk fermented with Lactobacillus casei Shirota may improve bowel habits of people with nerve issues.* And, clinical trial researchers found that L. casei supplements may help alleviate symptoms and improve inflammatory cytokines in women with inflammation of the joints.*
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus
L. acidophilus is a common probiotic, also found in foods like yogurt. It produces lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide that some troublesome bacteria don't like. Doing so helps keep the community of microbes in the intestines healthy and balanced.* Clinical research has linked L. acidophilus to keeping the urogenital tract sturdy, and immune system strength.*
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacteria are a group of bacteria that typically live in the human intestines and stomach, that help to perform essential functions like digestion and maintaining beneficial bacteria. One study suggests that B. bifidum may support immunity by staving off colds in the winter months.* Another clinical study indicates B. bifidum may help with abdominal discomfort caused by gas and bloating.* And yet another study states that B. bifidum can help with occasional diarrhea.* Clinical research suggests that B. bifidum can help maintain comfortable joint movement.* There's also a correlation to improved mental health, as bifidobacterium is classified as a "psychobiotic", which affects central nervous system-related functions and behaviors mediated by the gut-brain-axis.*
Lactobacillus plantarum
Lactobacillus plantarum
L. plantarum is a plant-based, beneficial probiotic strain naturally found in fermented foods like sauerkraut. Several clinical trials have shown that L. plantarum helps support comfortable digestion, helping to minimize gas and bloating.* One of the most common probiotics, L. plantarum seems to support immune system health.* Not only does L. plantarum stimulate the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10, it also seems to stimulate the production of regulatory T-cells.* And, preliminary studies indicate that L. plantarum may help strengthen memory, concentration and mood.*
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium breve
B. breve is one of the most helpful probiotic bacteria in the human body due to its unique ability to compete with harmful bacteria by digesting many molecules. It's also prevalent in the colons of breastfed babies. B. breve is linked to helping with occasional constipation in children.* When combined with a gluten-free (real food) diet, B. breve may promote microbial balance in the children's digestive tracts.* B. breve seems to play a role in helping to establish a healthy microbiome, based on trials involving preterm babies. Clinical research suggests it may be useful in recolonizing the guts of children who have undergone chemotherapy.*
Bifidobacterium lactis
Bifidobacterium lactis
A transient probiotic bacteria that inhabit the human intestines and the colon, B. lactis breaks down body waste and aids in the absorption of various vitamins and minerals. One study showed that B. lactis helped preterm babies gain weight after taking antibiotics, helping develop their immune systems.* Beyond the babies, extensive research has shown that B. lactis is useful for abdominal comfort and proper digestion, helping to get the colon in shape and potentially easing mild constipation.* Notably, preliminary lab research indicates B. lactis shows exciting potential in neutralizing certain toxins from wheat.*
Lactobacillus salivarius
Lactobacillus salivarius
L. salivarius is one of the most prevalent probiotic species in human saliva. It produces organic acids, such as lactic acid and acetic acid from carbohydrates, which can inhibit the growth of surrounding microorganisms, and produce hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial substances. L. salivarius seems to help keep the microbial population in the mouth healthy.* Also, several clinical trials indicate that L. salivarius seems to help regulate the immune system and, as a result, support healthy skin.* Importantly, researchers state that it may keep the vagina healthy and comfortable by promoting a healthy pH balance to treat minor infections and restore healthy vaginal flora.*
Lactobacillus brevis
Lactobacillus brevis
First isolated from a traditional Japanese pickle, you can also find L. brevis in many fermented foods. It seems to support healthy brain growth by increasing the production of the brain growth hormone, BDNF. Clinical research suggests it also helps with intestinal health and immune strength.* Preliminary research indicates L. brevis can trigger an increase in the production of interferon (a protein released by cells to heighten antiviral defense) in the body, as well as enhance the activity of T cells (which are produced by the thymus gland and actively participate in immune response). One large-scale clinical study showed that L. brevis seemed to make a significant difference in keeping children healthy over the winter season.* Clinical research also suggests it can help support vaginal comfort and health by adhering to vaginal walls and making it an unfriendly environment for troublesome microbes.*
Lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus gasseri
L. gasseri is naturally found in the human digestive and urinary tracts. It's been shown in clinical trials to help people lose weight.* Preliminary research indicates that L. gasseri may inhibit inflammation signaling at the genetic level.* L. gasseri may also support healthy cholesterol levels already within a normal range.*
Lactobacillus paracasei
Lactobacillus paracasei
L. paracasei is a species of lactic acid bacteria used in dairy product fermentation and probiotics. It's been shown to support comfy digestion in several ways by helping to regulate inflammation.* It's also linked to healthy cholesterol levels, blood pressure and a balanced immune system.* Researchers found that supplementing with L. paracasei seemed to shift the entire microbiome toward species associated with good health.*
Microcrystalline cellulose (base for encapsulation)
Microcrystalline cellulose (base for encapsulation)
Microcrystalline cellulose is all-natural refined wood pulp. We chose this ingredient to satisfy the needs of our most sensitive customers.
Vegetarian capsule
Vegetarian capsule
Hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), water. Our vegetable (vegan) capsules consist of only two ingredients: HPMC and purified water. HPMC is derived from vegetable cellulose of either pine or poplar. 100% natural, these capsules contain no preservatives, no gelatin, wheat, animal by-products or starch.
FAQ
Which probiotic should I take?
There are so many fantastic options! Here's how we break it down:
- Infant Probiotic: Our Infant Probiotic powder is recommended for anyone under the age of 2. However, because it's such a gentle formula, it's also ideal for sensitive individuals of all ages, or those taking probiotics for the first time. It's our least potent formula. The Infant Probiotic contains seven clinically-proven strains of beneficial bacteria naturally found in the digestive system of a healthy infant, and comprises 50% Bifidobacterium infantis. This strain is special because it dominates in breastfed babies' intestines, as it thrives on a unique molecule from breast milk. In scientific studies, B. infantis has been linked to healthy digestion, growth and immunity in infants.*
- Sensitive Probiotic: The Sensitive Probiotic powder is best for ages 3 and over, or children between the ages of 2 and 3 who have already used the infant formula. It contains one extra strain (L. plantarum) and is twice the potency of the Infant Probiotic. Smidge® Sensitive Probiotic is a powerful formula that does not require large doses. However, it's suited for sensitive individuals who may have reacted to certain strains of bacteria found in other probiotic formulas. Many of our customers with histamine intolerance, digestive issues, skin problems and other health conditions begin with our Sensitive Probiotic powder. In all, it's for those who are serious about gut health: a clean, potent, therapeutic-grade probiotic with eight strains of beneficial bacteria that are essential for digestive health, and no additional ingredients. This product is also available in capsules.
- Optimal Probiotic capsules: Smidge® Optimal Probiotic is a gentle, thoughtfully formulated probiotic that’s appropriate for various ages and stages, whether you’ve taken probiotics in the past or are new to this integral part of your wellness regimen:
- Men and women: Teens through the golden years,
- Mamas: Pregnant and nursing,
- Healthy kiddos: Ages 6 to 12.
- Yeastbiotic: Our Yeastbiotic capsules feature the friendly yeast Saccharomyces boulardii, which can gently crowd out pathogenic yeast.* S. boulardii is clinically proven to support people during antibiotic treatment, especially with candida, diarrhea and C. diff, as guided by a healthcare practitioner.* And you don't have to worry about it affecting your antibiotics. Most people use this one on a short-term basis.
Please keep in mind that the age to progress from one formula to another for every person varies. Since everyone is unique and responds differently to different formulas, it's important to consider the individual's health history, diet, metabolism, and recommendations by a practitioner — not just age. And our customer service team is here to answer your questions :)
Can you ship Smidge® Optimal Probiotic capsules in hot temperatures?
Yes. Smidge® Optimal Probiotic capsules (and all of our probiotics!) can be shipped when it's hot outside. Because it requires refrigeration, we only ship orders Monday through Wednesday using two-day premium shipping services that include tracking. We also have an overnight shipping option.
Smidge® probiotics are freeze-dried, so they hold up well to warm temperatures.
What is the best time and way to take my Optimal Probiotic capsules?
Here's the fun part. We recommend taking your probiotic with a meal or directly before the meal (around the same time daily). It's beneficial if the meal also contains some natural, organic fat or oil.
Taking your probiotic with yummy food provides a buffering system for the supplement and ensures its safe passage through the digestive tract. Food also provides the friendly bacteria in your probiotic with the proper nourishment to ensure its survival in your gut.
Our probiotics work best with an ancestral diet: unprocessed foods (meat, vegetables, fruits), healthy fats (olive oil, butter, lard, coconut oil, etc.) and no grains (i.e., no wheat, corn, rice, etc.).
Please avoid taking probiotics with certain foods that may diminish the potency:
- Avoid chlorinated water.
- Avoid hot soup and hot beverages (coffee, tea, etc.).
- Avoid highly processed foods (store-bought juice, sugar, wheat and soy products).
How many strains does this formula have?
Lots! Our Probiotic capsules contain 13 clinically-proven probiotic strains; 12 human strains and one plant strain (L. rhamnosus, L. casei, L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, L. brevis, L. gasseri, L. salivarius, B. bifidum, B. breve, B. infantis, B. longum, B. lactis and the plant strain, L. plantarum).
We use only the highest-quality probiotic bacteria: All strains have been thoroughly researched, documented and banked in recognized microbial culture collections. And, our strains are non-GMO and tested for purity.
Is this Optimal Probiotic free of common allergens?
Absolutely. Our Optimal Probiotic capsules are free of common allergens. All strains are grown on a dairy-free, soy-free, vegetarian, non-GMO culture. The product does not contain milk/casein, eggs, fish, shellfish, wheat/gluten, peanuts, tree nuts, yeast, corn or soy.
Does this probiotic contain prebiotics?
Nope. Most commercial probiotics are up to 80% prebiotics. This is notable because adding prebiotics reduces the potency of a probiotic supplement and therefore, reduces the cost per bottle. More importantly, we intentionally keep prebiotics out of our probiotic formulas, as many of our customers have extremely sensitive digestive systems or are biohackers who only want purity.
A probiotic can work alone and does not require a prebiotic. Our pure probiotics can colonize without a prebiotic.
Plus, not all people taking a probiotic need a prebiotic. In fact, we recommend starting our probiotics without a prebiotic, before determining whether or not to add it to your protocol. We believe it's important to focus on diet and real food to support the colonization of good gut bacteria and starve off pathogens.
Here's some additional background regarding our philosophy on prebiotics: Most commercially available prebiotics are made from FOS/inulin. This starchy, sugary substance can feed pathogens like E. coli and many Clostridium species, which would be counterproductive to gut health and overall health. There's also a concern that some kinds of yeast are able to use inulin/FOS for fuel, thereby leading to overactive yeast production in the body.
Where are the ingredients in Smidge® Optimal Probiotic sourced and where is the supplement made?
The strains in our Optimal Probiotic capsules are sourced U.S., as is the production of the final product :)
What kind of diet should I eat while on Smidge® Optimal Probiotic capsules?
Our probiotics and supplements work best in conjunction with a wholesome, real food diet. Think healthy fats, wild-caught fish, grass-fed meat, organic vegetables, and the elimination of GMOs, additives, preservatives, chemicals and processed sugar/flour. So eat clean and eat up!
Can this probiotic formula withstand stomach acid?
Yes! Plus, like all of our probiotic formulas, it’s cGMP certified to ensure product stability and purity. The hardy strains in our Optimal Probiotic are resistant to low Ph conditions in the tummy, meaning they’re genetically characterized to pass through your gut safely and can withstand bile, so they can do their very important job.