There are plenty of areas in life that benefit from consistency, but sometimes throwing caution to the wind brings its own set of joys. Prioritizing your gut microbiome may seem less exciting than most other plans, but it is critical for physical and mental wellbeing.
So, when it comes to taking probiotics, which way should you lean: scheduled or spontaneous?
Should You Take A Probiotic Every Day?
Everybody’s gut microbiome is unique, so there’s no one-size-fits-all probiotic plan. However, integrative medicine doctor Bindiya Gandhi, M.D., recommends taking probiotic supplements daily to get the maximum benefits.
“Remember stopping and starting probiotics changes your microbiome,” she says. “If the goal is to have a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract and overall immune system, you want to make sure you’re constantly taking good-quality probiotics.”
Along with taking probiotic supplements, functional medicine doctor Wendie Trubow, M.D., says it’s important to eat a diverse diet rich in fibre and beneficial bacteria. As long as these nutrients are making their way into the gut, Trubow says missing a few days of a supplement won’t be as big of a deal.
The Benefits Of Taking Probiotics Every Day
Probiotic supplements can have many functions. Diversifying the gut microbial landscape is a big one, Gandhi says, which helps to maintain balance in the gut microbiome.*
While promoting gut health is one obvious benefit, research has also shown certain strains of probiotics can help reduce bloat, aid proper nutrient absorption, promote regularity, and support a healthy weight.
As for probiotic foods, “Ideally we should always be eating probiotic-rich, fermented food daily,” Gandhi says, “but even more so if you are not taking a supplement.” These foods introduce multiple new strains of good bacteria to the gut, diversifying the microbiome, she explains.
One way to get gut-friendly benefits, while also extending the life span of seasonal produce, is to preserve vegetables. “Making and eating traditional foods such as sauerkraut, pickles, natto, kombucha, and beet kvass is a delicious and fun way to optimise your gut health and strengthen immunity,” registered dietitian Ella Davar, R.D., CDN, says.
As a general rule of thumb, Davar recommends getting probiotics from a variety of sources. “Those who don’t have time for cooking, or don’t like the taste of probiotic-rich foods, might greatly benefit from the supplement,” she explains.
In Summary
We’re all human – missing a day or two of probiotics could happen, and that’s not the end of the world. That said, taking a probiotic supplement consistently every day may increase its effectiveness. Plus in addition to efficacy, sticking to a ritual has its perks. “I’m a big fan of consistency and trying to form habits,” Trubow says. “For many people, daily practice works better and is easier to remember than irregular intake.”
