Probiotics: higher or lower CFU?

What is a CFU?

In probiotics, CFU stands for Colony Forming Unit. Basically this is the number of live, viable bacteria/microorganisms in a dose of that probiotic. A higher CFU suggest a higher concentration of live probiotics. 

While not ~always~ the case, typically the higher the CFU the pricier the supplement. And while a higher CFU is often associated with greater potency, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s “better.” An effective probiotic depends on quality, strain, and an individual’s need.

So let’s first look at some reasons one might choose a higher CFU or a lower CFU. Then we’ll look at some specific strains.

HIGHER CFU may be beneficial for:

taking with/after an antibiotic 

actively dealing with gut issues

recovering from a stomach bug

needing to restore gut balance

dealing with leaky gut

chronic constipation 

LOWER CFU may be beneficial for:

those who have a sensitive digestive system

those who are easily prone to supplemental side effects

certain automate conditions like MCAS

children typically don’t need as high as a count as adults for overall gut maintenance 

Now, let's take a look at Mary Ruth's infant probiotic as an example of how different strains can have different focused benefits.

Bacillus coagulans unique IS-2 - particularly effective for IBS, constipation, and may also help with diarrhea and other digestive issues. Has also shown good results for immune health as well as having antidepressant-like effects 

Lactobacillus reuteri - can be good for colic, diarrhea, constipation, gut pain, and gut inflammation

Bifidobacterium lactis - really good a preventing pathogens by producing acids, peroxides, and bacteriocins making is hard for pathogens to find space in the microbiota. Really great adhesion properties so it can stick in the gut. 

Bifidobacterium infantis - a lactic acid bacteria that has shown success with IBS, abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Other studies have shown it to lower levels of inflammation in those with ulcerative colitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and psoriasis. 

Bifidobacterium bifidum - research shows promise in treating H. Pylori, IBS, gut restoration after chemo, constipation, lunch infections, ulcerative colitis, diarrhea