Synbiotic (vs probiotic) - what it is, how to use it, in pregnancy and for the gut

Probiotic supports the gut, prebiotic supports probiotics, and synbiotic is the... synergistic combination of these two ingredients. As a result, it has a positive effect on the health of the digestive system or immunity.

In certain health conditions, it is invaluable, which is why, together with clinical nutritionist Julia Skrajda and Małgorzata Koraska, MSc pharmacist we present the most important information about the synbiotic.

See also:

• Probiotic
• Prebiotic
• Psychobiotic
• Sodium butyrate
• Antioxidants
• Adaptogens
• Best liver supplements
• Best heartburn pills
• Best over-the-counter sleep pills

What is a synbiotic?

A synbiotic is a combination of live probiotics and prebiotics in a single supplement. These products act synergistically, enhancing each other's beneficial properties. As a result, their effects on human health can be greater than when these agents are taken separately.

The use of synbiotics can support digestion, immune system function and the balance of the intestinal microflora. Their exact effects and benefits, however, depend on the composition of the product and the needs of the bodyand.

Synbiotic vs. probiotic - what are the differences?

Synbiotic and probiotic differ in composition and action.

Probiotics are live micro-organisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that benefit human health. When consumed in adequate amounts, they can improve the balance of the intestinal microflora and support the functioning of the digestive system. They also have beneficial effects on the immune system and other areas of healthand.

On the other hand, synbiotics contain both live probiotics and prebiotics. Prebiotics are substances that are not digestible by humans, but serve as a nutrient for probiotics, helping them to grow, multiply and settle in the gut. Synbiotics work synergistically, meaning that prebiotics provide a nutrient for probiotics, which increases the effectiveness of the latterand. 

Synbiotics are worth recommending to people who have a low fibre intake in their diet, which means their gut bacteria are less well nourished. 

In summary, the main difference between synbiotics and probiotics is that a synbiotic is a combination of live probiotics and prebiotics that reinforce each other, whereas a probiotic is a stand-alone product that contains only live microorganisms.

And in even shorter terms: probiotic + prebiotic = synbiotic.

Best synbiotic - ranking

6 bacterial strains

ALLDEYNN ROSEBIOTIC

5.0

• Main ingredients: Lab2pro™ 6 strainsóof lactic acid bacteria
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• Form: pastilles
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• Packaging: 30 lozenges
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• Dosage: 1 lozenge per day
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• Sufficient for: 30 days
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Product description

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Pros and cons

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Additional information

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

Expert opinion

ROSEBIOTIC is a synbiotic containing a patented Lab2pro™ complex of 6 selected and tested strainsóof lactic acid bacteria. Synbiotic – is a combination of a prebiotic and a probiotic in one product. The product has a positive effect on supporting and strengthening the immune system, improving digestion, as well as the bioavailability of vitamins and mineralsóin the digestive tract.

Recommended dietary supplement when you want to rebuild the state of your intestinal microflora, regulate the digestive system and improve the absorption of nutrients.

9 bacterial strains

Multilac synbiotic

4.9

• Form: capsules
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• Packaging: 10 capsules
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• Dose: 1 capsule per day
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• Sufficient for: 10 days
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Product description

Multilac synbiotic 20 capsules is a preparation containing as many as 9 different strainsóof bacteria. The product supports the natural intestinal microflora, both during and after antibiotic therapy. It can also be used during periods of particular exposure to infections and temporary changes in the intestinal microflora.

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Pros and cons

Multilac synbiotic 20 capsules is a preparation containing as many as 9 different strainsóof bacteria. The product supports the natural intestinal microflora, both during and after antibiotic therapy. It can also be used during periods of particular exposure to infections and temporary changes in the intestinal microflora.

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Additional information

Multilac synbiotic 20 capsules is a preparation containing as many as 9 different strainsóof bacteria. The product supports the natural intestinal microflora, both during and after antibiotic therapy. It can also be used during periods of particular exposure to infections and temporary changes in the intestinal microflora.

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Best for children

Synbiotic Baby WORLD OF HEALTH

4.9

• Form: drops
• Packaging: 6 ml
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• Dose: 5 drops daily
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• Sufficient for: 24 days
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Product description

Synbiotics Baby is a formula designed for children as young as 5 months of age. This supplement supports the replenishment of the intestinal microflora with up to 5 billionóve live bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) and 15 mg of fructooligosaccharidesóve.

Synbiotic for children in drops from Świat Zdrowia is distinguished by its form of administration and lack of unnecessary additivesów.

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Pros and cons

Synbiotics Baby is a formula designed for children as young as 5 months of age. This supplement supports the replenishment of the intestinal microflora with up to 5 billionóve live bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) and 15 mg of fructooligosaccharidesóve.

Synbiotic for children in drops from Świat Zdrowia is distinguished by its form of administration and lack of unnecessary additivesów.

.

Additional information

Synbiotics Baby is a formula designed for children as young as 5 months of age. This supplement supports the replenishment of the intestinal microflora with up to 5 billionóve live bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) and 15 mg of fructooligosaccharidesóve.

Synbiotic for children in drops from Świat Zdrowia is distinguished by its form of administration and lack of unnecessary additivesów.

.

Synbiotics Baby is a formula designed for children as young as 5 months of age. This supplement supports the replenishment of the intestinal microflora with up to 5 billionóve live bacteria Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) and 15 mg of fructooligosaccharidesóve.

Synbiotic for children in drops from Świat Zdrowia is distinguished by its form of administration and lack of unnecessary additivesów.

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What does a synbiotic help with?

Synbiotics have many beneficial uses for human health. They influence the health of the digestive system, restoring the balance of the intestinal microflora and alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort. They also help to improve the body's immune system and can have a positive impact on mental health.

Synbiotics help to reduce unwanted metabolites in the body, inactivate carcinogenic substances, and counteract putrefactive processes in the intestines. 

How does a synbiotic work?

Promotes digestive health

Synbiotics for a healthy gut, which are a combination of probiotics and prebiotics, play an important role in improving the health of the digestive system. How do they support itand?

• Restoring the balance of the intestinal microflora. Regular use of synbiotics can help to restore the natural balance of the intestinal microflora. Stress, a diet low in fibre and antibiotics can weaken the population of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Synbiotics provide the body with live probiotics that help to 'repair' the harmony of the microflora, resulting in better functioning of the digestive system.
• Regulation of intestinal peristalsis. Synbiotics can support normal intestinal peristalsis, which is the muscle and nerve reflexes, supported by digestive enzymes, of moving food content along the intestines. Regular consumption of synbiotics can help alleviate gastrointestinal complaints such as constipation, abdominal pain, flatulence or indigestion.
• Helping intestinal barrier function. Synbiotics have the potential to strengthen the intestinal barrier, which plays an important role in protecting the body from harmful substances and pathogens. Improving the function of the intestinal barrier can help prevent harmful substances from passing from the intestines into the bloodstream and protect the body from inflammation and infections.
• Reduce the risk of intestinal infections. Systematic intake of synbiotics can reduce the risk of intestinal infections, such as Clostridium Difficile infection. The beneficial bacteria provided by synbiotics compete with pathogenic bacteria for space in the gut, making it difficult for them to multiply and colonise.

In summary, the use of synbiotics for adults can provide gastrointestinal health benefits ranging from restoring the balance of the intestinal microflora, regulating intestinal peristalsis, strengthening intestinal barrier function and reducing the risk of intestinal infections.

However, the individual body's response to synbiotics may vary, so it is always advisable to consult a doctor or clinical nutritionist before starting supplementation with this product.

Reduce gastrointestinal reflux

Synbiotics can help to reduce gastrointestinal reflux through several mechanisms. Firstly, they improve the balance of the gut microflora. The ingredients in synbiotics, namely probiotics and prebiotics, help the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. Probiotic bacteria can produce organic acid, which maintains the optimal pH of the stomach, preventing reflux. In addition, the balance of the gut microflora influences proper digestion and can reduce the risk of refluxand.

Secondly, synbiotics strengthen the intestinal barrier. Research suggests that probiotics can influence the structure and function of the intestinal barrier, keeping it in good condition. A strengthened intestinal barrier may prevent gastric contents from backing up into the oesophagus, helping to reduce refluxand.

Another mechanism by which synbiotics reduce reflux is the reduction of inflammation in the gut. Abnormal gut microflora and chronic intestinal inflammation can contribute to gastrointestinal reflux. Synbiotics can alleviate inflammation by supporting immune function and regulating the immune response in the gutand.

Finally, synbiotics can affect gastrointestinal motility. Abnormal bowel and stomach muscle movements can lead to reflux. Research suggests that synbiotics may regulate gastrointestinal motility, which may help the gastrointestinal tract function properly and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal refluxand.

Enhance immunity

Research suggests that a proper balance of gut microflora can benefit the immune system. Improving gut microflora by providing prebiotics and probiotics can help maintain gut health and strengthen the immune systemand.

Synbiotics can also support immunity by increasing the production of beneficial chemicals such as butyric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral effects. In addition, synbiotics may help to maintain a healthy balance of gut microflora, which can limit the growth of harmful microorganismsand.

It is worth noting, however, that the effect of synbiotics on immunity is still an area of active research and the effects may vary depending on individual factors. Therefore, always consult a specialist before starting supplements to get the most appropriate recommendations for your conditionand.

Positive effects on mental health

Research suggests that synbiotics may also have a positive impact on mental health. The gut is connected to the brain via the gut-brain axis, meaning that communication between the gut microflora and the brain may be important for mental healthand.

Recent research suggests that beneficial changes in the gut microflora, achieved through synbiotics, may affect the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and GABA, which are linked to the regulation of mood and emotion. In other words, the right balance of gut microbes can affect your mood and mental healthand.

Additionally, abnormal gut flora has been noted in people with psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. Therefore, improving the gut microflora with synbiotics may provide support for people with such disordersand.

Nevertheless, it is worth remembering that the effects of synbiotics on mental health are still under investigation and their efficacy in this area is uncertain. Psychobiotics may be much more beneficial.

How to use a synbiotic

The use of a synbiotic usually depends on the specific product, so it is always a good idea to read and refer to the instructions on the packaging or consult your doctor or nutritionist before starting supplementation.

Dosing of a synbiotic

• Follow the manufacturer's recommendations. The manufacturer of the synbiotic should state the recommended dosage on the product label. Keep in mind that different products may have different formulations and recommended dosages, so read the instructions on the packaging before starting supplementation.
• Pay attention to units of measurement. Make sure you understand the units of measurement used in dosing, whether in capsules, teaspoons, grams, etc.
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• Comply with regularity. If a specialist has prescribed a synbiotic to be taken daily, make sure you follow this recommendation. Regular use may have greater benefits for your gut microflora and overall health.
• Consult your doctor. If you have any doubts about the appropriate dosage of a synbiotic in your particular case, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor or nutritionist. They can tailor recommendations to your individual health condition and needs.

Synbiotic - before or after antibiotics?

It is generally recommended to take a synbiotic after an antibiotic (a few hours apart) because these agents (antibiotics) can disrupt the natural balance of the intestinal microflora. Antibiotics destroy both harmful and beneficial bacteria, which can lead to intestinal dysbiosisand.

Taking a synbiotic after antibiotic treatment aims to restore and rebuild a healthy balance of intestinal microflora. The components of a synbiotic, i.e. prebiotics and probiotics, can provide nutrients and beneficial micro-organisms that support the growth and development of healthy bacteria in the gut.

The following is an example of this.

However, there are some exceptions in which a synbiotic can be used at the same time as an antibiotic. However, this is dependent on your doctor's advice, so it is always worth asking when you receive your prescription for a particular medication.

Synbiotics can be used at the same time as antibiotics.

When to take a synbiotic?

Most often it is recommended to take a synbiotic during meals or just before meals. Food can help shield the probiotics from stomach acids, which increases their survival and effectiveness in the gut. In contrast, it is a good idea to avoid swallowing a synbiotic on an empty stomach - this reduces its effect.

Additionally, if the manufacturer of a synbiotic gives specific instructions on when to take it, stick to them. Furthermore, some products may require the synbiotic to be taken just on an empty stomach, or with an appropriate interval from other supplements or medicines.

Some products may require the synbiotic to be taken just on an empty stomach or with an appropriate interval from other supplements or medicines.

How long to use a synbiotic

During antibiotic therapy, it is advisable to take a synbiotic at the same time as the medication and for a certain period after the antibiotic treatment has ended. This is important because antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of the intestinal microflora, destroying beneficial bacteria.

How to take a synbiotic?

• Start from the moment you take your antibiotic. Start taking your synbiotic from the first dose of your antibiotic. In this way, you will ensure a faster restoration of a healthy balance of intestinal microflora.
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• Continue taking the synbiotic for a few weeks after the antibiotic. Keep taking the synbiotic regularly for at least two to three weeks after the end of the antibiotic treatment. During this time, the probiotic bacteria will have a chance to take root in the gut and rebuild a healthy intestinal flora.
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• Consult your doctor or pharmacist. If you are in doubt about how long to take a synbiotic during antibiotic treatment, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor or pharmacist.
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See also:

• When to take a probiotic?
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• When are probiotics harmful?
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• Probiotic before or after an antibiotic?

What are the natural sources of synbiotics?

Synbiotics are combinations of probiotics and prebiotics that together promote gut health. Although they refer to dietary supplements, you can also consume fermented foods that naturally contain both components (probiotics and prebiotics). Their best sources in the diet are:

Synbiotic in pregnancy

Using synbiotics during pregnancy can be beneficial for the health and comfort of the mother-to-be. Many women then suffer from various digestive complaints such as constipation or diarrhoea. Synbiotics can help to balance the intestinal microflora, which can provide relief from these types of problemsand.

Additionally, synbiotics can support the immune system, which is often weakened during pregnancy. Supplying the body with probiotics in the form of a synbiotic can help maintain a healthy gut flora and reduce the risk of infection and disease .

As always, however, we recommend consulting your doctor before starting any treatment, including taking synbiotics during pregnancy. Only he or she will be able to assess the individual's needs and recommend a suitable preparation and dosage.

Synbiotic and breastfeeding

Synbiotics can also be useful during breastfeeding. During this period, the use of these remedies can help to maintain a healthy bacterial flora in both mother and baby.

Synbiotics and breastfeeding

Synbiotics can also be useful during breastfeeding.

When the mother takes synbiotics, the beneficial micro-organisms can pass into the milk, which can affect the health of the baby's gut and immune system. Research suggests that probiotic supplementation by the mother may reduce the risk of colic, constipation and infection in breastfed infantsand.

Just as during pregnancy, prior consultation with a doctor is recommended during breastfeeding.

See also:

• Probiotics for pregnant women
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Summary