Align Probiotics Supplement Review, Ingredients & Side Effects

Align probiotics is a line of probiotic dietary supplement that contains the patented strain Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis 35624. This bacterium is used to support digestive function and the immune system.

Align has been shown in clinical studies to reduce the abdominal pain, bloating and constipation symptoms of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). Notable improvement was achieved after one week of taking this product.

This probiotic supplement is also used to provide relief from gas, abdominal discomfort, and to support healthy, normal bowel function.

Each capsule of Align probiotics contains between 1 billion – 10 millions CFUs (colony-forming units) of Bifantis 35624 per day.

According to the manufacturers, “Only Align contains Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis 35624, a pure-strain probiotic bacteria that was developed by Gastroenterologists.” This product is also advertised as the #1 Gastroenterologist recommended probiotic.

In addition to the standard formulation of Align Daily Probiotics, there is also an Extra Strength product, a Jr. Probiotic Supplement for Kids, Chewable Banana Strawberry flavored tablets, Align Daily Immune Support, Align Digestive Care and a Cherry flavored chewable product for kids.

Probiotics

Digestive Supplement

Gut Health

Digestion

Immune Function

How It Works:

• Supports a healthy immune system & microflora
• Promotes digestion & nutrient absoprtion
• Combats pathogenic bacteria; Improves metabolism

Dosage:

Between 1 - 10 Billion CFUs per day

Safety:

Rated Likely Safe

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Align Probiotics Review

Align probiotics are manufactured by Procter and Gamble and are a Licensed Natural Health Product in Canada. This supplement is recommended to relieve and help manage symptoms of IBS.

The manufacturers also say that this probiotic supplement helps to naturally promote and support a healthy digestive system and to maintain digestive balance.

On Amazon.com, the Align Digestive Health Probiotic Supplement has received a 4.5 out of 5-star rating, with 962 customer reviews at present. This makes it one of the top-rated probiotics on Amazon.

Research has demonstrated a number of positive effects from taking Bifidobacterium longum subsp. Infantis – the type of probiotic bacteria found in Align probiotic supplements. However, there are two concerns that have been expressed regarding this supplement:

1. Most experts say that to gain the health benefits from taking probiotics, it is better to combine multiple strains of probiotic bacteria together, rather than taking a single-strain product like Bifantis found in Align probiotics.
2. The number of live CFUs in Align probiotics varies greatly over the shelf-life of this product, which can mean that efficacy is diminished towards its expiry date.

Align Probiotics Dosage

According to the manufacturer’s website, each capsule of Align contains at least 1 billion live Colony Forming Units (CFUs) of bacteria when it is manufactured. However, that number may decrease to only 10 million CFUs at the time of its expiry date.

This is a common problem with probiotic supplements. The bacteria contained within the supplement are living organisms which will die off over time if they are not kept in the right environment

Some research suggests that non-living probiotic organisms can provide certain immune benefits when consumed. However, the majority of benefits come from consuming living, viable bacteria that are capable of growing and colonizing the intestines.

The manufacturers say that, “Align contains an effective level of probiotic bacteria throughout the shelf life of the product.” But a number of doctors recommend consuming at least 5 – 10 billion CFUs of probiotics per day to achieve desired health benefits.

If Align probiotics are not able to improve your digestive function, your doctor may recommend looking for a probiotic that provides a higher dose of initial CFUs.

Supplements are also available that have been formulated to preserve more of the probiotics alive for their entire shelf-life. These supplements may use enteric coating or freeze-dried bacteria.

Align Probiotics Benefits

A number of clinical studies have examined the benefits of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis 35624, the active strain in Align probiotics. This supplement has been found to exert immunoregulatory effects, reducing markers of inflammation in the body.

This supplement has also been shown to improve symptoms in patients with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome). This condition is marked by stomach discomfort, diarrhea, constipation, gas or pain in the abdomen.

Probiotics work broadly by improving the balance in the gut microflora. This refers to the colony of both good and bad bacteria that currently are colonizing your gastrointestinal tract.

Bad bacteria can often result in gassiness, irregular bowel movements, inflammation, and irritation in the intestinal lining. Maintaining digestive health requires maintaining a healthy balance between the good and bad bacteria in the microflora.

Bifidobacterium infantis is a strain of good bacteria from the Bifidobacterium family. It helps to prevent the growth of bad bacteria and aids in breaking down foods that we eat.

Taking a daily probiotic supplement, such as Align, is said to restore a natural healthy gut flora, providing ongoing relief from IBS symptoms like abdominal discomfort, gas, and bloating.

Align Probiotics Side Effects

Symptoms of bloating and gas have been reported in the first few days of taking this product. For most this is a temporary condition.

Probiotic supplements can interact with antibiotics and should be taken at least two hours apart. When they are used together, it can limit the efficacy of the probiotics you are using.

Probiotics should not be taken by people with impaired immune systems, such as organ donor patients or by those using a catheter. Individuals using immunosuppressant drugs should also check with their doctor before taking Align probiotics.

This is a milk based supplement, so those with lactose conditions should use it with caution. The safety of taking this product during pregnancy, and nursing, has not been established. Check with your doctor to decide whether Align probiotics with Bifantis are appropriate for you.

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