Bifidobacterium Breve: Benefits and Side Effects

Bifidobacterium breve (B. breve) is a highly beneficial probiotic strain, in fact, it’s one of the most helpful strains out there. This probiotic was originally discovered in infants but resides in our gastrointestinal tracts as adults and is also found in breast milk.

It’s said to help with everything from immune health to reducing inflammation and protecting skin.

But firstly let’s check if its really right for you.

Is Bifidobacterium breve right for me?

Bifidobacterium is a family of lactic acid bacteria that produce vitamins, digest fibres and complex carbohydrates in your food and fight off infections. Within this family, Bifidobacterium breve is one of the most important probiotic strains and has a heap of specific superpowers that may surprise you.

If you’re after a natural alternative to help with immunity, digestion and overall health then this may be the route for you. Probiotics on the whole are considered safe as these friendly bacteria already live in your body and consuming more isn’t an issue – your body will simply flush out the excess.

However, there are a few people who shouldn’t be consuming probiotics

Anyone with a compromised immune system/taking immunosuppressive medication
People who’ve had surgery recently
Critically ill individuals

If you’re still unsure, and as with any new supplement, you should consult your doctor so they can determine if probiotics are right for you by taking your medical history into account. Read on to find out what’s in store for you if you’re able to start consuming a probiotic with B.breve in it.

10 Awesome Health Benefits of Bifidobacterium breve

Skin health and protection

Who doesn’t want healthy, clear, glowing skin? Studies have shown that consuming B. breve consistently increases hydration and clarity of the skin whilst also reducing sebum.

This means that you will see a reduction of oil on your skin but it will maintain its elasticity because of the hydration retention. Acne spots and impurities will also be reduced as your skin is ridded of pore-clogging sebum and dirt.

Additionally, in a few studies done on mice, B. breve was actually seen to reduce damage done by UV rays. Water loss, oxidation and elasticity issues were all significantly reduced so that the permanent damage was lessened compared to the mice who were in the control group.

More study needs to be done on this, but potentially, B. breve will be able to combat the signs of sun damage and ageing of skin – letting you enjoy the sunshine, guilt-free.

Reduces inflammation

Most probiotics species are excellent at reducing inflammation in the body, and B. breve is no exception. It’s especially effective on infants who are being breastfed, the B. breve bacteria will mainly colonise the colon and help anti-inflammatory molecules function optimally.

This is essential to the child developing a good immune system and gives them a better chance at living an allergy free life, which we will discuss further on.

Inflammation within the brain can lead to the development of neurological disorders, like Alzheimer’s, over time. In another study on mice, they were able to determine that the administration of B. breve prevented cognitive deterioration and reduced immune responses that promote inflammation of the brain. Over time, this lack of inflammation on the brain will ensure it stays as healthy as possible.

Prevents allergies

As mentioned above, B. breve triggers anti-inflammatory responses in infants’ bodies which has actually been shown to boost the immune system and reduce the occurrence of allergies developing.

Further to this, irritating conditions like eczema, dermatitis and atopic sensitisation will be encountered less in children who are consistently consuming this probiotic.

Improves immune system and response

As well as fighting off allergies in infants, their overall immune system will be optimized which is also a benefit that adults will experience when they consume B. breve. Immune response can actually be slowed in this process, meaning that inflammation and reactions to allergies won’t be as quick and symptoms will be lessened – which, in this situation, is a good thing.

70% of your immune system actually hangs out in your gut, it’s made up of beneficial strains of bacteria and yeasts that keep you healthy. Having the right probiotics reinforcing your gut lining means that all of the good stuff will be absorbed from your food and none of the bad, everything harmful or unnecessary will bounce off your gut lining and be flushed out of your body as intended.

If you’ve got an abundance of B. breve in your intestines or you’re taking a probiotic supplement that’s got this strain in it then you’re on the right track to having guts that are protected by the best in the business.

Improves digestion

As mentioned above, probiotics are known to have gut healing and protecting superpowers – their main function is to balance the good and bad bacteria in your intestines to help with a bunch of major health aspects. One of these is your digestion – a vital function to help you extract optimum nutrients from your food to give you energy, vitamins and an overall well-being boost.

Along with targeting and improving a bunch of uncomfortable digestive issues, Bifidobacterium breve will also assist with overall digestion including keeping you regular and stopping pesky gas, bloating and cramps that can come from poor digestion of your meals.

Alleviates constipation

In an interesting study, B. breve was used to increase stool frequency and improve stool consistency in children with constipation whilst also reducing their abdominal pain. According to the discussion of this study, it’s thought that B. breve increased water and electrolyte production in the body which combats constipation, and its anti-inflammatory effect reduces sensitivity and pain.

More research needs to be done on this, but probiotics could be a much gentler alternative than laxatives when dealing with constipation. A natural boost of B. breve would be not only easy to consume but completely natural and harmless to the body, unlike laxatives.

Combats asthma

Asthma affects around 300 million people across the globe and this number is on the rise. It’s characterised as chronic inflammation of the lungs that results in recurring episodes of sensitivity in the airways where they can become restricted, swollen or blocked with mucus – making it very difficult to breathe. Everyone’s asthma trigger is different but they can even be something as simple as the common cold or pollen. It’s a potentially fatal and very common disease that is generally treated with medications and an inhaler with steroids in it to relax and open the airways quickly.

In the last few years, it’s been discovered that B. breve may be a suitable aid for asthma-sufferers, although more research is needed. Its anti-inflammatory effects rival that of a commonly used steroid medication for asthma inhalers called Budesonide. Combined with Lactobacillus rhamnosus, these two probiotic strains were able to regulate the immune response and reduce lung resistance in chronically asthmatic mice – a very promising result.

Helps with antibiotic associated diarrhoea

Diarrhoea is not only extremely uncomfortable but very inconvenient as well. In a 2004 study, healthy infants were given a formula with B. breve in it for about 5 months. At the end of the period it was seen that these infants had less visits to medical centres, less cases of dehydration and the severity of their diarrhoea episodes was noticeably less.

In the above mentioned study, the episodes of diarrhoea were antibiotic-related meaning the episodes were caused by the antibiotics killing off all the bacteria in the gut, including the good stuff, giving bad bacteria the chance to re-populate, take over and wreak havoc.

However, the diarrhoea incidences were alleviated because Bifidobacterium breve was being administered at the same time and so had the chance to re-populate the gut quickly – before the bad bacteria could throw off the balance.

Reduces candida in the body

Candida is a yeast that, when overgrown, can cause very uncomfortable symptoms and infections in places all over your body – orally, vaginally, in the nose and even simply on your skin. Whilst yeast infections are generally harmless with mild to moderate symptoms, babies, the elderly and anyone with a compromised immune system can be fatally attacked by this yeast.

Related: Best probiotics for vaginal health

Bifidobacterium breve is among some of the best probiotic strains for fighting off candida and reducing it in the body. When choosing a probiotic to prevent and help reduce the severity of a candida infection you should get a product with the Bifidobacterium breve strain in it, as well as others like Lactobacillus rhamnosus, L. lactis and B. bifidum to give your body the best chance at fighting off the bad bacteria and creating a healthy gut flora. Some good strains can be found within the products in our review of the best probiotics for women.

Antibiotics may sometimes be prescribed for these kinds of infections, however, these will kill off all bacteria and allow the chance for the bad bacteria to re-colonize the body before the good bacteria does – leading to another infection. Probiotics are a healthy, natural and effective way of keeping candida at bay in your body to prevent infections but also assist with a speedy recovery if one occurs.

Can help fight obesity and weight gain

Obesity is thought to be associated with chronic, low-grade inflammation in the body. To try and combat this, a study gave obese individuals Bifidobacterium breve capsules over 12 weeks. By the end of this time, their fat mass had decreased more drastically than the placebo group. Liver function and inflammatory reactions were also improved over this period with no adverse reactions of any kind being noted after blood work was completed.

Related: Best probiotics for weight loss

More research is needed, but early results show that B. breve may also improve metabolic function, allowing fat to be burned quicker and food to be converted into fuel more efficiently instead of being stored as fat. In addition to this, it’s also been suggested that this strain of probiotic can help with improving cholesterol levels, fasting glucose and insulin function.

This isn’t to say that B. breve is a miracle fat loss supplement, but it can help to retrain your body to use food and fat correctly, especially in those who are obese, and can help to boost your metabolism.

Are there any side-effects to taking B. breve?

When it comes to consuming a probiotic, chances are that you’re going to be consuming a few different strains in one product. As such, we’re going to note a few health warnings from this broader standpoint.

Luckily, probiotic supplements don’t hang around in your body for long. They are flushed out with normal bodily functions and, as mentioned earlier, if there’s too many then your body will simply get rid of them naturally so you don’t need to worry about overdoing it.

Possible side effects when consuming probiotics:

Mild digestion issues – Gas and bloating accompanied with mild cramps commonly occur within the first 2 weeks of taking a new probiotic supplement as your body is getting used to it. This should disappear on its own but get yourself down to the doctor for a chat if they don’t or if your symptoms are anything worse than slightly uncomfortable.
Allergic reactions – When choosing a probiotic supplement, check the labels to see if there are any allergens in there that you are intolerant to. Soy, dairy or egg can sometimes be found in probiotic supplements and it’s always better to be on the safe side.
Risk of infection – If you’ve recently undergone surgery or have a compromised immune system then you could be at risk of infection, so it’s best to avoid taking probiotics of any kind until your doctor has given you the all clear.

Conclusion

Probiotics are an awesome and effective natural remedy for digestion and immune related issues. They live in your gut and safeguard your health when they’re outweighing the bad bacteria, healing you from the inside out. Different strains of probiotic are better at helping with different health aspects.

If you’re on the lookout for powerhouse probiotic strains then you can’t go past Bifidobacterium breve. From relieving constipation and reducing diarrhea to fighting off weight gain and candida in the body, this strain is one of the best on the market today. We would recommend purchasing a probiotic product that contains B. breve combined with a few other different strains so you can get a full range of health benefits across the spectrum.

Adele Taylor

Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.

Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.

The Top 5 Probiotics That Can Help With Anxiety and Mood
If you’re someone who struggles with anxiety, you’re not alone. Anxiety is one of the most common mental disorders, affecting around 20% of adults each year with women being 1.5 times more likely to experience it than men. Encouraging research into probiotics has shown a strong link between the gut and brain. Lets have a look at the top probiotics for anxiety and mood.

5 best probiotics for anxiety and mood
We’ve rounded up a few of the best probiotic supplements on the market right now that assist with mood and anxiety.
#1 Garden of Life – Dr. Formulated Probiotics Mood+
Important strains
Apart from having 50 billion colony forming units (CFU) guaranteed at the time of you consuming them and 16 different probiotic strains to assist with immune and digestion, this supplement includes both L. helveticus and B. longum which we mentioned above as two of the specific strains that are known to help alleviate anxiety.
Added goodies
There’s also 350 mg of organic ashwagandha and Alaskan blueberries to assist even further with supporting mood, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Ashwagandha is a medicinal herb that’s been used for over 3,000 years to relieve stress, increase energy and assist with better concentration by reducing cortisol levels. And then you’ve got your Alaskan blueberries which far outshine ordinary blueberries with their high antioxidant levels, they’re said to improve cognitive function and inflammation.
What are the reviews saying?
This product has just over 400 reviews on Amazon with a 4/5 star average, so it goes without saying that there are a lot of satisfied customers trying this probiotic. Reviewers report that they’ve noticed differences in their mood, depression, anxiety and even their focus is better. However, these improvements may not start showing themselves until after the first week of consistent use.
Some reviews do mention that they receive a damaged product (capsules have broken) or the bottles have arrived missing a capsule or two. This suggests there may be some quality control and packing issues within the company.
Price: (60 capsules) on Amazon
PRO’S
50 billion CFU
16 strains (2 targeted strains)
No need for refrigeration
Organic ashwagandha and Alaskan blueberries
Contains prebiotic
CON’S
2 capsules a day
#2 Lifted Naturals Mood Boosting Probiotic
Targeted “feel good” strains and prebiotic
This probiotic supplement is solely focused on boosting your mood with strains that have been shown to do so. Additionally though, this probiotic has the prebiotic GOS added which is the only prebiotic that has been studied and proven to help with anxiety! So not only will your probiotics be nourished with the GOS fibres but all 9 strains will also be targeting your mental, immune and digestive health.
One capsule daily
This is a great feature for any probiotic supplement. One capsule contains 30 billion CFU so the recommended service size is one capsule daily – making it easier on those who don’t like swallowing too many tablets a day. You can increase this to 2 capsules a day if you’d like to. They’ve also kept it simple with no fillers in the capsules, just probiotics and prebiotics contained in a vegetable cellulose casing.
What are the reviews saying?
With a 4.5/5 star rating on Amazon from over 200 customers, the main points mentioned are that this product not only supports their mental health but they feel their overall health is greatly improved as well. Users notice that going through stressful situations, like busy family holidays, does not affect them as much as it had previously, with anxiety and mood “lifted”. A few of the reviews do mention their digestion being upset by this product so it may be a small intolerance to GOS, something to keep in mind if you’d like to try it out.
Price: (60 capsules) on Amazon
PRO’S
30 billion CFU
9 strains (2 targeted strains)
No need for refrigeration
Prebiotic GOS
1 capsule a day
CON’S
Less CFU than other brands
#3 InnovixLabs Mood Probiotic
Nice and simple
This product from InnovixLabs has created a mood supporting probiotic that contains only 2 strains – Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum. Both of these strains are backed with clinical studies to prove their effectiveness on mood and anxiety.
Refrigeration required?
Whilst this product doesn’t have to be refrigerated, the box clearly says that storing it in the fridge may help to maintain the CFU count. Unfortunately, this product only guarantees that 3 billion CFU will be viable at the time of expiration, even with refrigeration. Whilst probiotics definitely will die off over time or if they’re exposed to heat, many brands have technology that guarantees the full amount of CFU will be viable up until the expiry date. Keep this in mind if you’re going to be buying in bulk or taking them slowly.
Price: (60 capsules) on Amazon
PRO’S
15 billion CFU
2 targeted strains
No need for refrigeration
1 capsule a day
CON’S
No prebiotic
Only 3 billion CFU guaranteed at expiry
Less CFU than other brands
#4 Renew Life Adult Probiotic
Everyday stress
This probiotic from the well-known Renew Life brand has been formulated with busy adults in mind to help them handle their everyday stress better. Just like the product above, it only contains Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum.
The CFU count is slightly lower on this product at 3 billion CFU, so you may want to take another probiotic supplement with this one if you’re looking for a daily probiotic that also caters for your digestive and immune health needs. The low CFU count may have been designed to simply assist with everyday stress but not extend its reach past that – making it a great, mild, targeted supplement to add to your daily routine.
Price: (30 capsules) on Amazon
PRO’S
3 billion CFU
2 targeted strains
No need for refrigeration
1 capsule a day
CON’S
No prebiotic
Less CFU than other brands
#5 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum
Not targeted at mood support
Whilst this supplement from 1MD isn’t targeted towards mental health, it is one of the best probiotic products on the market right now. It’s got 51 billion CFU and 11 strains per capsule with a prebiotic fiber to boost the healthy bacteria’s performance.
It does contain Bifidobacterium longum and enough other strains and CFU that you’re most likely going to see a significant health improvement for your gut which will inevitably lead to better mental health due. So if you’re wanting something that’s more of an overall, everyday probiotic that covers every base (including mental health), this might be the product for you.
A bit more expensive
Due to its high quality and high potency, this product tends to be priced a bit higher than most other products in the same market. However, many users have commented that the cost is worth the price and they’re seeing benefits that they don’t see with other brands. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide how much you spend on your health. If you have a bit of a bigger budget then this product is a great one to consider.
You can read our detailed review of Complete Probiotics Platinum here.
Lowest Price: (30 capsules) on 1MD.org
PRO’S
51 billion CFU
11 strains
1 capsule a day
Contains prebiotic
CON’S
Not targeted towards anxiety and mood
Expensive
Are probiotics right for me?
Probiotics are not meant to be used as a substitute for any kind of medication. Especially ones that have been prescribed for mental health by a doctor. However, they can be used in conjunction with these medicines.
If your anxiety or mood issues are mild then a targeted probiotic for anxiety may be your ticket to better mental health.
There are a few people that shouldn’t be consuming probiotics:
Anyone with a compromised immune system
Anyone who’s undergone surgery recently
People who are critically ill
In healthy individuals, probiotics are considered safe and aren’t known to have any adverse side effects.
The reason being, we already have trillions of healthy bacteria in our gut so our bodies are accustomed to probiotics.
You may experience bloating, gas or an upset tummy during the first couple of weeks of use. These should subside but if they don’t or are anything more than slightly uncomfortable then you should cease use and have a chat to your doctor.
Gut-brain axis
When it comes to linking mental health and gut health, you have to look at the “gut-brain axis”.
A healthy gut microbiome means that it will be able to utilise immune molecules, nerve signals and gut cells to communicate and respond to negative changes in the brain faster than most other organs can react to each other (source).
If you’ve ever had butterflies before a first date, or needed to go to the bathroom badly when you’re nervous then you know how much your brain can affect your gut (and how quickly).
This exact link works just as effectively in reverse. Not surprisingly, anxiety and depression seem to be more prevalent in those with gastrointestinal disorders such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
Related: The top probiotic supplements for IBS
It has become increasingly clear that when these mental disorders are treated effectively, gastrointestinal disorders improve as well and vice versa, demonstrating the strong link between the gut and the brain.
More research needs to be done on the “gut-brain axis”, but promising studies have shown that your gut is able to quickly respond to any kind of inflammation, infection or general negative changes in the brain.
This reduces the amount of time your brain is going to be affected by inflammation or infection and therefore reduces the possible damage.
Taking probiotics can help with a number of cognitive and mood issues:
Brain fog/focus
Stress
Anxiety
Memory function
Depression
Mood
Reducing inflammation
Probiotics are well-known for their anti-inflammatory properties, it’s what makes them so great at regulating around 70% of immune response in the body. In the same way, probiotics in the gut are able to quickly respond when inflammation in the brain begins to reduce the amount of time that excess inflammation is present.
Whilst inflammation is a crucial part of the healing process (allowing the body to hone in on and rid the body of whatever is attacking it), too much inflammation can cause serious problems over time. Inflammation is actually the main underlying cause of degenerative brain conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis.
The most worrying factor of inflammation in the brain is that it generally goes unnoticed because the brain doesn’t have any pain receptors. It only becomes obvious that something is wrong when cognitive and mental issues start showing themselves.
Probiotics minimize the risk of this happening by not only reducing inflammation , but doing so in the present as well. Stress, anxiety and brain fog are just some of the symptoms and problems that good gut health will be able to help alleviate but the long-term effects are just as important.
Psychobiotics
This term refers to probiotic strains that have been known to specifically help with anxiety, stress and all of the other brain-related issues we’ve mentioned in this article. When choosing a probiotic for anxiety, be sure to look out for these strains:
Bifidobacterium longum
Bifidobacterium breve
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus plantarum
Lactobacillus helveticus
Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus casei
Lactobacillus fermentum
Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS)
That last strain looks a bit different because it’s actually a prebiotic. Prebiotics are tiny, indigestible fibres that supply probiotics with a food source so they can thrive and function optimally. This particular prebiotic is known to combat the secretion of cortisol – your body’s main stress hormone.
Conclusion
Probiotics have been directly linked through the gut-brain axis to significantly improve mental health in the present and safeguard it for the future. A healthy gut microbiome is able to respond to any inflammation or negative change in the brain quicker than other organs and assist the body in fighting off anything this vital organ.
If you’re looking for support for mood, anxiety or depression then a targeted mood probiotic is a great option. A natural solution that can heal you from the inside out!
Adele Taylor
Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.
Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.

The 5 Best Probiotics for Vaginal Health

Every woman’s vaginal flora is a unique blend of around 50 different species of microbes, including healthy bacteria, to keep everything fresh and infection-free. Taking a probiotic specifically for vaginal health can help ward off nasty and uncomfortable infections by balancing your lady garden. We’re going to show you exactly how they do this and which products you should be looking out for.

Are probiotics right for me?

If you’re someone who struggles with recurring yeast infections (thrush), urinary tract infections (UTI) or bacterial vaginosis (BV) then a probiotic supplement may be exactly what you need to help your body fend them off.

However, there are a few people that shouldn’t be taking probiotics:

Anyone with immune problems
Critically ill individuals
Anyone who has undergone surgery recently

Probiotic supplements are considered safe for healthy individuals due to the fact we have good bacteria in our bodies already – so adding a few more shouldn’t hurt. However, some mild side effects in the first couple weeks can include gas, bloating and an upset stomach. Speak to your doctor and cease use if these symptoms don’t subside or if they’re anything more than slightly uncomfortable, as the probiotics may not be agreeing with your system.

Alternatively, you can get your probiotics from fermented food and drink such as kimchi, kombucha and yoghurt. We’re going to give you some recommendations for probiotic supplements at the end of this article though, so you can decide which avenue is right for you.

How do probiotics help with vaginal health?

Let’s get straight to the point. The most prominent and helpful type of bacteria in your vaginal flora is Lactobacillus and it basically helps to maintain balance of the acidic pH down there (very important). When the balance of good bacteria inside the vagina is thrown out of whack, it gives way for bad bacteria to fill the spaces which results in nasty infections.

There are a number of factors that can throw off the delicate balance like contraceptives, unprotected sex, antibiotics, perfumed soaps and so much more. Unpleasant odours, irritation like stinging, itching and burning and/or funky discharge that’s anything other than a clear or creamy colour, are solid indications that something’s not quite right.

Antibiotics are generally the recommended treatment after an episode of thrush, BV or a UTI, but this will kill off the good bacteria as well – leaving you susceptible for recurring episodes if the bad bacteria repopulates your vagina before the healthy microbes have the chance to. That’s why taking a good quality vaginal probiotic supplement is a great prevention method, even for stubborn cases of recurring infections.

Besides the above, a healthy vaginal microbiome also assists with:

Reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STI)
Promoting healthy fertility and pregnancy
Possibly easing symptoms of endometriosis
Preventing cervical cancer

Lactobacillus – a strain you need

According to this in-depth medical article, a healthy woman’s vaginal flora will be dominated by Lactobacillus species. Within this species of probiotic, the most commonly seen strains in the vagina are:

L. iners
L. crispatus
L. gasseri
L. jenesenii
L. acidophilus
L. fermentum
L. plantarum
L. brevis
L. casei
L. vaginalis,
L. delbrueckii
L. salivarius
L. reuteri
L. rhamnosus

Some women have a natural lack of lactobacilli strains and so are more susceptible to infections such as:

Yeast infections (vaginal thrush)

Caused by an overgrowth of the fungus candida albicans, this can range from mild to severe irritation of the vagina and vulva including itching, burning, pain and rashes accompanied by thick, white discharge.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV)

One of the most common vaginal imbalance issues that results in a fishy odour, milky or gray, lumpy discharge, itching and burning during urination. This is a direct result of too many different species of bacteria in the vagina causing an elevated pH (above 4.5). It can be caused by new or multiple sexual partners, washing or douching the vagina and other factors that are harder to pinpoint.

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

When nasty bacteria enters the urethra (close to the vagina), they can travel up it and multiply in your bladder. This leads way to highly uncomfortable symptoms, the most common one being an intense need to urinate frequently but only being able to pass small amounts when you do. The urine will appear cloudy and pink, smelling quite strongly and this will all be accompanied with pain in the pelvis. Ensuring the bacteria in your vagina is healthy will minimize the risk of contracting a UTI.

As mentioned above, the treatment for these bacterial infections and imbalances are generally antibiotics. Taking a probiotic at the same time has been seen to stop recurring infections and prevent future ones as well because your lactobacilli strains are replenished and start working before the bad bacteria can take hold.

What should I be looking for in a probiotic supplement?

Not all probiotic supplements are made equal, and that’s because each different probiotic strain and family have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Different probiotic products will contain strains and species to target certain aspects of health. In general, a standard probiotic for overall health will be focused towards the bacteria in your gut, of which there are trillions, and will include a mix of beneficial bifidobacteria and lactobacilli strains. Some of these lactobacilli probiotics will trickle down to assist with your vaginal health.

But we’re focusing on vaginal health in particular here – so finding a probiotic supplement that targets your vaginal flora is crucial. This ensures that the supplement is made up of only (or mainly) beneficial lactobacilli strains that specifically populate the vagina, so you’re going to have a plentiful amount of them end up down there to help colonize and maintain the balance of healthy bacteria.

It will also ensure that the strains included are known to be hardy enough to survive the trip through your body, or the supplement has added technology to carry them there. This is necessary because probiotic bacteria can easily be killed off by the harsh acid in your stomach or lose their potency after travelling through the gut. To combat this further, some probiotic capsules are designed to be inserted directly into the vagina – but if this makes you feel uneasy, don’t worry, the majority are designed to be consumed orally!

5 best probiotics for vaginal health

#1 Balance Complex for Women

A potent mix

Along with 4 billion colony forming units (CFU) of L. acidophilus, this probiotic and prebiotic product contains the following goodies to boost your vaginal health:

- Anise seed – Known to have antibacterial properties that allows it to kill off bad bacteria so lactobacilli can populate instead. Good for preventing BV.
- Aloe vera – Antifungal properties that attack yeast. Anti inflammatory properties to reduce irritation and itching.
- Wormwood – A herb powder that attacks bacteria and is good for preventing BV and yeast infections, good at reducing length of infections due to aggressive nature.
- Black walnut hulls – Effective antifungal ingredient, good for fighting BV.
- Oregano extract – Antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial herb extract which is said to be one of the best natural BV remedies available.
- Reishi mushroom – Used for centuries in oriental medicine, it contains magnesium, fiber, calcium and potassium to fight BV.

Tried and tested

With over 2,500 reviews on Amazon and a 4.5/5 star rating, this product has been tried and tested by thousands of happy customers. So many women have commented that they feel much fresher when using this product with noticeably less odour and abnormal discharge, boosting their confidence significantly after having tried so many ineffective products.

Some have even remarked that their acne has been reduced which is an awesome bonus and is probably due to all the anti-inflammatory/antibacterial ingredients it contains.

The most common improvement reported was no more (or significantly reduced) BV episodes, so if this is something you suffer from you may want to consider getting your hands on a bottle of these capsules.

Price: (90 capsules) on Amazon

PRO’S

Lots of anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial ingredients
4 billion CFU of L. acidophilus
Contains prebiotic to feed the probiotics
Targeted support for vaginal health
Over 2,500 reviews on Amazon and a 4.5/5 star rating

CON’S

Only 1 strain of probiotic
Less affordable than other brands
2 capsules a day

#2 RepHresh Pro-B Feminine Probiotic

2 targeted strains

This product keeps it super simple with a blend of 5 billion CFU containing the strains L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri which have been clinically tested and proven to balance yeast and bacteria in the vagina. There are no other ingredients except a few fillers and binders like potato starch and magnesium stearate. This product does contain milk, so if you’re lactose intolerant you may want to steer clear, even though it’s a tiny amount.

One capsule daily

This is super convenient for those who dislike swallowing capsules and generally just keeping things simple. Reviewers report that this product really helped them with their recurring BV or chronic yeast infections, minimising odour and prolonging freshness more than anything they’d tried so far.

Price: (30 capsules) on Amazon

PRO’S

5 billion CFU of L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri
Affordable
1 capsule daily
Targeted support for vaginal health
Almost 2,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4/5 star rating

CON’S

No prebiotics
No guarantee of CFU delivery or added technology to keep bacteria alive

#3 Renew Life Ultimate Flora Women’s Probiotic

Does it all

Whilst this isn’t specifically targeted at vaginal health, it’s a women’s probiotic from a well-known brand that will assist with immune and digestive health as well. With 25 billion CFU, a hefty amount of them will make it through your gut and down to your vagina. 22.5 billion CFU are made up of 8 different lactobacilli strains so you know you’re going to get a range of targeted support for your vaginal health.

Guarantees

Probiotics tend to die off over time and so it’s not always guaranteed that you’ll get the amount of CFU you see printed on the label. But Renew Life guarantees that 25 billion CFU will be ready to work all the way up until the product’s expiry, so you can be assured you’re getting your money’s worth.

Price: (30 capsules) on Amazon

PRO’S

25 billion CFU
10 strains (8 lactobacilli strains)
Affordable
1 capsule daily
Supports immune, digestive and vaginal health
Almost 1,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.5/5 star rating
Guaranteed CFU
Gluten, dairy and soy free

CON’S

No prebiotics
Not specifically targeted for vaginal health

#4 Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Women’s Vaginal Care

A powerhouse blend

This product contains 50 billion CFU, 3 yeast-digesting enzymes, 38 probiotic strains (20+ lactobacilli strains) and a blend of RAW fruits and veggies to mimic the experience of eating real, fermented, probiotic-rich foods. With this many probiotics contained in each capsule, all your digestive, immune and vaginal needs will be supported and nourished.

Price: (30 capsules) on Amazon

PRO’S

50 billion CFU
38 strains (20+ lactobacilli strains)
Yeast-digesting enzymes
Affordable
1 capsule daily
Supports immune, digestive and vaginal health (targeted mainly towards vaginal health)
Guaranteed CFU
Fruits and veggies added blend

CON’S

Not all strains specifically targeted for vaginal health

#5 vH Essentials Prebiotic Vaginal Suppositories

For the brave

Last but not least, we have a product that’s a little different from the rest. Firstly, it’s made with prebiotics which are tiny, indigestible fibres that feed probiotics and get them working optimally. But secondly, these suppositories are inserted straight into the vagina with the provided applicator. This might be a good product for someone who dislikes swallowing capsules or wants fast, targeted support. Designed for use over a 15 day period, this product combines prebiotics and lactic acid to feed the probiotics in your vagina, balance your pH and keep you fresh.

Price: (15 suppositories) on Amazon

PRO’S

Once daily application
Targeted and fast support
No capsules to swallow
Prebiotics to help probiotics work optimally inside vagina
Lactic acid to balance pH

CON’S

Some women may find application inconvenient/unsuitable
No included probiotics

Conclusion

If you’re struggling with BV, vaginal thrush, UTIs or just want some extra protection to safeguard your vaginal flora then you should consider a vaginal probiotic supplement. Restore balance, prevent infections and reap all of the health benefits of a happy vaginal flora with a powerhouse probiotic blend that your lady garden will thank you for.

Take a look at the products we’ve listed above to explore the top probiotic supplements on the market right now that will help you and your vagina live your best life!

Adele Taylor

Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.

Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.

The Complete Guide to Garden of Life RAW Probiotics

Probiotics are a hot topic right now and it’s not hard to see why. If you’ve landed on this article then you probably already know about the healing powers of probiotics and you’re wanting to get your hands on a probiotic supplement that’s going to benefit you the best. We’ve analysed the Garden of Life RAW Probiotics range to show you some excellent options on the market right now. Stay tuned till the end because we’re also going to take a look at what real customers are saying about these products.

Things to consider before buying Garden of Life RAW Probiotics

Do you need a probiotic supplement? You may already be getting enough probiotics in your diet from fermented food and drink like tempeh, kimchi and kombucha. However, if you think you might be lacking, take a look at the benefits below to figure out if you could do with a bit more healthy bacteria in your life.

A few benefits of probiotics:

Bolsters the immune system and is responsible for about 70% of your immune response
Keeps digestion running optimally
Hormone regulation
Reduces bad cholesterol levels and increases heart health
Maintains urinary, colon and feminine health
Produces essential vitamins like A, K and B1
Managing and reducing symptoms of various conditions and infections

Are there any side effects of probiotics?

During the first couple weeks of use, as your body gets used to the probiotics, you may notice some small digestive side effects like a gurgly tummy, gas or bloating. These symptoms should go away on their own, speak to your doctor if not.

Don’t take probiotics if you:

Have a histamine intolerance
Have a suppressed immune system
Are taking immunosuppressive medication
Have recently undergone surgery or been in the hospital for an extended period of time

Generally, probiotics are considered safe as they’re in your gut to begin with and your body can flush out any extra as it needs. If you’re unsure, speak to your doctor before you start taking probiotics.

Garden of Life RAW Probiotics – An in-depth review

So now we know what probiotics can do and you might have a good idea of if they’re right for you as an individual, we’re going to take a look at the Garden of Life RAW Probiotics range and see how they stack up against a market of probiotic products.

Who are Garden of Life?

This is a company that are self-proclaimed fanatics about whole foods and uncompromising health standards. They take their time to craft each product from the farm all the way to your supermarket shelf. Instead of focusing on efficiency to churn out masses of products, they ensure that every product has the highest quality, organic ingredients that are non-GMO, free of synthetic materials and all the other nasties you would never want inside your body.

What makes Garden of Life Raw Probiotics so special?

RAW Probiotics is a range of 9 Garden of Life probiotic products made with whole foods to give you extra vitamins and nutrients with your daily probiotic hit and mimic the experience of eating fermented foods. RAW means that their probiotics are “uncooked, untreated, unadulterated; with no binders or fillers and no carriers.”

Each product in this range carries the “Arrive Alive! Potency Guarantee” which means the colony forming units (CFU) listed on the product will all be alive when they get to you. This is important because a lot of probiotic products lose their potency gradually when approaching their use by date.

From kids to a 5-day intensive course of probiotics and everything in between, no matter what your needs are there’s a RAW probiotic product for just about everyone.

Here are those products in detail:

1. Raw Probiotics Kids Digestive Powder

Probiotic intake is never more important than in growing bodies and this product makes it easy to get your kids to consume as many as they need for a healthy immune system and digestive tract. Powder form probiotics can be mixed into infant formula, milk, water, juice or sprinkled over yummy foods like yoghurt and applesauce.

It has a slight banana taste so your kids are likely to either enjoy it or not even realise it’s there. Just like the rest of the RAW range, there are no fillers or extra bits and pieces that you wouldn’t want in your kid’s system – and it’s mild enough for their delicate insides.

PRO’S

5 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving
5 different strains of probiotic
23 different RAW fruits and veggies blend
Powder form
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Contains prebiotics to feed the probiotics

CON’S

Only one flavour (banana)

2. Raw Probiotics 5-Day Max Care Powder

This product is designed to give you the ultimate good bacteria dose to repopulate the probiotics in your gastrointestinal tract after a cleansing program. If you’re not feeling great after a round of antibiotics or have been getting sick frequently then your probiotic gut flora may be out of whack and this product could be your ticket back to feeling great.

This 5 day course of probiotics will give you a whopping 400 billion CFU each day with 30 different strains of probiotics so you get the variety you need to fight off whatever has been ailing you. There’s also 14 digestion-supporting enzymes with a focus on Bifido strain probiotics to give you the maximum digestion support possible.

PRO’S

400 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving
30 different strains of probiotic
23 different RAW fruits and veggies blend
Powder form
Contains prebiotics
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives

CON’S

Only one flavour (banana)

3. Raw Probiotics Colon Care

This is another product from Garden of life that contains an extensive 30 strains of probiotics, however, these ones are all targeted towards maintaining a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in your colon to promote regular bowel movements. This is a once daily capsule that provides 50 billion probiotics and is covered by the “Arrive Alive” potency promise just like all Garden of Life RAW probiotics. Similar to the product above, you also get 17 digestive enzymes to boost your digestion and aid bowel function.

PRO’S

50 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 1 capsule
30 different strains of probiotic
7 different RAW fruits, veggies and seeds
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives

CON’S

No prebiotics

4. Raw Probiotics Men

There’s something for everyone in Garden of Life’s Raw range and this one is targeted towards men specifically. Supporting prostate, heart, immune, digestive and colon health with a powerhouse blend of 85 billion CFU, 30+ probiotic strains, targeted vitamins and minerals, dairy digesting enzymes and RAW fruits and veggies blend, there isn’t much this product hasn’t covered.

This is both your daily probiotic and vitamin supplement rolled in one to keep things simple and support all aspects of men’s specific health needs – even taking a focus on aiding quick recovery from physical activity.

PRO’S

85 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 3 capsules
30+ different strains of probiotic
RAW fruits, veggies and seeds
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Vitamins and minerals
Targeted towards men’s health specifically
Dairy digesting enzymes
Contains prebiotics

CON’S

3 capsules a day may be inconvenient (best taken separately throughout day)

5. Raw Probiotics Men 50 & Wiser

Whilst being targeted towards men and providing all the same health support as the product above, this RAW product also targets cholesterol levels that can tend to creep up as we get older.

PRO’S

85 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 3 capsules
Serving size can be increased to 9 capsules a day for intensive care
32 different strains of probiotic
RAW fruits, veggies and seeds
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Vitamins and minerals
Targeted towards men’s health needs over 50
Dairy digesting enzymes
Contains prebiotics

CON’S

3 capsules a day may be inconvenient (best taken separately throughout day)

6. Raw Probiotics Ultimate Care

This product is designed to complement your everyday life by covering a broad spectrum of health needs so that most ages and genders can benefit from this product. Ultimate Care includes Garden of Life’s “Replenish Blend” – probiotics that work together optimally to create balance inside your body.

One daily serving gives you a solid 100 billion CFU with 34 probiotic strains plus prebiotics, digestive enzymes and a RAW fruit and veggie blend.

PRO’S

100 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 1 capsule
34 different strains of probiotic
“Replenish Blend” to restore balance
RAW blend
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Vitamins and minerals
Digestive enzymes
Contains prebiotics

CON’S

CFU count may be too high for beginners

7. Raw Probiotics Vaginal Care

Feminine health is a delicate balance of different good bacteria and yeasts to create a healthy environment free of infections, this has never been more true than for vaginal health. This product promotes yeast balance, vaginal and urinary tract health with 8 targeted strains of probiotic and 30 more overall health targeted strains. There’s also 3 yeast-digesting enzymes to prevent overgrowth which can otherwise lead to nasty and uncomfortable infections down there.

PRO’S

50 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 1 capsule
38 different strains of probiotic (8 targeted strains)
RAW blend
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Digestive enzymes that target yeast to prevent infections from overgrowth

CON’S

No prebiotics

8. Raw Probiotics Women

This is the counterpart to the men’s probiotic discussed above. It targets specific feminine health needs so that vaginal health and overall digestive function are supported. Similar to the men’s product, it also contains digestive enzymes that specifically break down dairy, a RAW blend, prebiotics, vitamins, minerals and supports colon and bowel health.

PRO’S

85 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 3 capsules
Serving size can be increased to 9 capsules a day for intensive care
32 different strains of probiotic
RAW blend
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Vitamins and minerals
Targeted towards women’s health specifically
Dairy digesting enzymes
Contains prebiotics

CON’S

3 capsules a day may be inconvenient (best taken separately throughout day)

9. Raw Probiotics Women 50 & Wiser

Last but not least is this probiotic formula specifically targeted for women who are 50 years young and over. There’s a signature blend of RAW fruits, veggies and seeds plus dairy digesting enzymes, vitamins, minerals, prebiotics and 33 different strains of probiotics to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, thyroid function, digestion, colon health, bowel regularity and immune response. An excellent product that covers all bases to help women age gracefully.

PRO’S

85 billion CFU (colony forming units) per serving of 3 capsules
Serving size can be increased to 9 capsules a day for intensive care
33 different strains of probiotic
RAW blend
No fillers, binders, carriers, artificial flavours, colors or preservatives
Vitamins and minerals
Targeted towards women’s health needs over 50
Dairy digesting enzymes
Contains prebiotics

CON’S

3 capsules a day may be inconvenient (best taken separately throughout day)

What are the reviews saying?

We’ve headed over to Amazon to take a look at the reviews on the RAW range. From what we can see, the women’s and kid’s probiotics seem to be the most popular, perhaps indicating that women are more interested in probiotic supplementation than men are despite the targeted products towards men’s health. The Ultimate Care probiotic is also a big hit – which makes sense being that it covers all bases to suit everyone’s needs, a “one size fits all” if you will.

Regardless, it looks like most of the range’s products have around a 4/5 star average. These products seem to be helping with everything from eczema in kids to gut troubles in adults and promoting regular bowel movements for all ages. The main gripe is that you need to be careful when ordering the refrigerated products online as they sometimes get delivered warm which will affect the potency of the bacteria.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a great probiotic that’s going to meet all of your specific health needs, then Garden of Life Raw Probiotics may have the right formula for you. With the added benefit of their signature RAW fruit and vegetable blend to mimic the experience of eating whole fermented foods, plus all your daily vitamins and minerals in a few of their products, these supplements are an excellent choice.

Adele Taylor

Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.

Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.

A Definitive Guide to MegaRed Krill Oil

With so many krill oil products on the market and so many sources telling us that it’s a better source of essential omega-3 fatty acids, it can be an overwhelming experience trying to find the best product amongst the throng. To help out a little, we’re going to be taking a look at a current krill oil option and how it stacks up. Stay tuned till the end because once we’ve discussed the pros and cons of Schiff’s MegaRed Krill Oil, we’ll briefly analyse some market leading alternatives for you to compare it with.

Things to consider before buying MegaRed Krill Oil

First, we need to know what krill oil is and what it can do. If you’re on this article you probably already know the juicy details but here’s a quick run-down:

Here’s a few quick benefits krill oil can provide:

Lowers cholesterol and blood fat (triglycerides)
Improves brain function
Reduces arthritis and joint pain
Decreases inflammation
Helps manage symptoms of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome)
Can fight cancer cells
Protects your heart health
Combats high blood pressure

Who shouldn’t be taking a krill oil supplement?

Anyone who is pregnant or breastfeeding, has a bleeding disorder, diabetes, obesity, seafood allergies or is scheduled to undergo surgery in the near future should stay away from krill oil altogether. It’s been known to slow blood clotting so this should be kept in mind whilst considering and using this supplement. Generally though, krill oil is not known for any serious side-effects in healthy individuals.

Minor side effects of krill oil for those who are intolerant to it can include an upset stomach, decreased appetite, heartburn, gas and bloating. Speak to a doctor if this occurs and cease use of the product unless advised otherwise.

MegaRed Krill Oil – An in-depth guide

Now for the good stuff! We’re going to get up close and personal with MegaRed Krill Oil so you know what to expect when purchasing a krill oil supplement.

Who are Schiff?

This company has been around since day dot. They were formed in 1936 by Eugene Schiff, a pharmacy owner with a passion for natural food. Since then, the company has grown but remained committed to using high quality ingredients and science to help their customers thrive and live their best, healthy lives. Their MegaRed Krill Oil is just one of their products but they create everything from the humble Vitamin C tablet to complex digestive enzymes and probiotic products.

What is MegaRed Krill Oil?

MegaRed is an extensive range of krill oil products from Schiff:

MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil
MegaRed Ultra Concentration Krill Oil
MegaRed Advanced 4in1 Concentrated Fish & Krill Oil
MegaRed Superior Krill Oil
MegaRed Extra Strength Krill Oil

With this kind of range it’s hard to tell which product is best as each has its own strengths and weaknesses. Each one has different amounts of krill oil and one of these products even combines fish and krill oil for extra benefit. For this article we’re going to keep it simple and focus on their top product containing 1000 mg of krill oil per serving: MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil.

Here’s a quick list of MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil’s key features, the good and the bad. We’ll explore these in more depth below:

PRO’S

Good levels of EPA and DHA
No unnecessary fillers
Affordable
One softgel a day

CON’S

Only 0.05 mg of astaxanthin (antioxidant)
Less phospholipids than other brands (affects absorption)
Does not meet recommended daily minimum krill oil intake (1200 mg)
Softgel is quite large

Let’s look at the facts

Per serving (1 softgel) MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil provides:

1000 mg of krill oil (200 mg short of the daily recommended minimum)
230 total omega-3’s
128 mg of EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
60 mg of DHA (docosahexaenoic acid)
0.05 mg of astaxanthin
334 mg of phospholipids

Omega-3 are essential fatty acids that the human body cannot produce on its own, you’d need to get around 8 ounces of fish into your diet a week to get the required amount and notice the health benefits. With this once daily softgel from MegaRed, you can get 1000 mg of omega-3 – made up of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and alpha-linolenic acid (you won’t see this last one on the nutrition labels as it’s not as important). Whilst it may fall a little short of the 1200 mg minimum recommended a day, you should be able to easily make that up with your diet.

Lacking in phospholipids and astaxanthin

Due to its smaller volume, this krill oil contains less phospholipids and astaxanthin which are both important to the performance of krill oil. Phospholipids are thought to be absorbed better by the human body than triglycerides, which carry the omega-3 in fish oil. There isn’t a significant deficit of phospholipids in this product that would cause any serious flaws, but it may be something to consider when looking at the market as many other products contain more.

Similarly, it would be good to keep in mind the low amount of astaxanthin (0.05 mg) – nature’s most powerful antioxidant that’s found in the algae that krill and many other sea life ingest. Antioxidants, as the name suggests, prevent your cells from oxidizing and have been shown to boost immune defense to ward off cancer and other degenerative diseases.

One softgel a day

Unlike a lot of other krill oil brands, MegaRed’s suggested serving is 1 softgel daily to keep things simple. They claim that their krill oil is 3 times more pure than regular krill oil and have formulated their softgels to dissolve within 1 hour – meaning less risk of a fishy aftertaste or burps. Schiff advises that MegaRed Krill Oil has been seen to increase your omega-3 index significantly within just 30 days, which is a fairly short time period in the scheme of things.

So what are the reviews saying?

Now that we’ve explored what the company is saying and all the plain facts about this product, let’s get first-hand opinions from the customers who’ve been using it. This will give you an idea of if Schiff’s claims can be backed up with its performance.

Cholesterol reduction

As one of krill oil’s best benefits, it’s great to see that customers using this product are experiencing lowered cholesterol after consuming it consistently for only a short time. Most of the reviews for this product confirm that it’s got magic healing powers when it comes to bad cholesterol.

Softgel size

Some users have reported that the size of the capsule is bigger than pictured on the box. This is something to keep in mind if you have difficulty swallowing large pills – we don’t mean to alarm you, but several users said this pill got stuck in their throat! The reason they’re so large is most likely because of the amount of krill oil contained in each softgel. Schiff has decided to cram it into one instead of splitting the serving size into two capsules like most krill oil supplements.

No fishy aftertaste

This seems to be a recurring theme amongst reviewing customers. Many of them experience no fishy aftertaste or burps that can sometimes be experienced with krill oil (much less often than fish oil). This may be due to the amount of time it takes these softgels to dissolve in the stomach.

Price

Due to the satisfaction among customers, many of them are happy with the price of this MegaRed Krill Oil. It comes in around the low to mid-range pricing bracket when compared with other similar products on the market. One bottle will get you around a month’s supply, you can view the price here.

Alternatives for MegaRed Krill Oil

Now that you’ve gotten acquainted with the krill oil from MegaRed, let’s take a look at a few of your other options from high to low range budgets:

#1 1MD Antarctic Krill Oil Platinum

Exceeds expectations

This krill oil from 1MD is an excellent choice if you’re wanting to meet and exceed the daily recommended amount. At 1600 mg of krill oil per serving of 2 softgels, this packs a punch. It’s also got an excellent amount of phospholipids and astaxanthin respectively so you’ll get extra absorption and antioxidant benefits. The compromise of taking an extra softgel a day, as opposed to the one you’d have to take for a MegaRed product, is worth it in our opinion.

Blows out the budget

When it comes to health, you need quality, but quality comes with a price tag. This product is in the higher price range of those in the market right now but it’s also got the highest levels of omega-3 goodies, so it really comes down to how much you can afford to spend on your krill oil. If you can splurge a little then this could be a great product for you!

Price: (60 softgels) on Amazon

PRO’S

1600 mg krill oil per serving of 2 softgels (174mg EPA, 120mg DHA and 2mg astaxanthin)
Softgels with natural lemon flavour to stop fishy aftertaste/burps
550 mg of phospholipids per serving
No fillers
Bio-availability boosted through 1MD technology

CON’S

More expensive than other brands

#2 Viva Naturals Premium Antarctic Krill Oil

Bang on target

This is another product that recommends 2 capsules for each serving, it’s a great product that covers all bases. Each serving has 1250mg of krill oil with 165mg EPA, 95mg DHA, 500mg of phospholipids and 1.6mg astaxanthin. There’s no overreaching from Viva Naturals here, it simply gives you what you need to feel all the great health benefits that krill oil can provide.

Price point

This product is one of the cheaper ones on the market whilst still being awesome quality and giving you exactly what you need, as mentioned above. 1MD Krill Oil Platinum might be a little out of your budget but not to worry, this product is around half the price and even cheaper than MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil whilst giving you more bang for your buck!

Price: (60 capsules) on Amazon

PRO’S

1250 mg krill oil per serving of 2 capsules (165mg EPA, 95mg DHA and 1.6mg astaxanthin)
Easy to swallow capsules
Includes technology to prevent fishy burps/aftertaste
500 mg of phospholipids per serving
Affordable

CON’S

Capsules have been reported to burst/leak

#3 Sports Research – Antarctic Krill Oil (Double Strength)

One softgel per day

Same as MegaRed Ultra Strength Krill Oil, this krill oil also boasts the advantage of one softgel a day. It’s also got the same amount of krill oil per serving that MegaRed does but beats them on the phospholipid and astaxanthin count by a significant amount. Just like with MegaRed, this would suit anyone who’s already getting some omega-3 in their diet and wants a boost to reach the daily recommended minimum.

Backing up their product

Unlike Schiff’s MegaRed products, Sports Research offers a 90 day money back guarantee if you’re not satisfied – a great indicator that they have faith in the quality of their product and a great motivator if you want to try this product risk-free! And with over 3,000 reviews on Amazon with a 4.5/5 star average, odds are that this product will help you reach your krill oil health goals.

Price: 60 softgels) on Amazon

PRO’S

1000 mg krill oil per serving of 1 softgel (128mg EPA, 60mg DHA, 400mg phospholipids and 1mg astaxanthin)
One softgel a day
Money back guarantee

CON’S

EPA, DHA, phospholipids and astaxanthin levels aren’t as high as other brands
Doesn’t meet daily recommendation for krill oil intake

Conclusion

If you’re on the market for a great, basic krill oil with no frills and you’re someone who’s getting some omega-3 in their diet anyway, this could be your extra supplement to boost your daily intake. Schiff’s MegaRed range of krill oil products are crowd-pleasers at a great price point, you can take a look at their Ultra Strength Krill Oil here.

Adele Taylor

Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.

Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.

What Is The Best Krill Oil for Dogs?

The benefits of krill oil supplements are well reported. Whilst fish oil supplements are still far more easily reported, e.g. they’re cheaper and easier to find in health care stores and supermarkets, krill oil usage is on the rise. But what about krill oil for dogs?

What is krill oil?

Krill oil is derived from a small crustacean, called krill, which is abundant in the antarctic Southern Ocean. The deep and clean water in this reason means that krill harvested from here is healthy, free of detachable mercury, and is also very abundant, meaning that it’s not likely to run out any time soon.

The downside is that the harvesting process of the oil is a little more difficult than regular fish oil, and that can drive up the price a little. Despite that, the benefits far outweigh the price and the rarity of the products, compared to regular fish oil.

Do dogs need krill oil?

Omega 3 fatty acids are vital for dogs, whether old or young. Supporting cardiovascular health, brain health, and also helping to keep joints mobile and hydrated throughout life is a vital part of a looking after your furry friend. Krill oil supplements are often in the form of a chewable table which you give to your dog, usually within their food, and they take this on a daily basis.

The benefits of krill oil are plentiful, and in addition, krill oil contains a naturally occurring and very powerful antioxidant called Astaxanthin. This can help to boost your dog’s immune system and help protect their cells from free radical damage.

How to choose the right supplement

What you need to think about however is which krill oil supplement to give to your dog. There is no regulation on the supplement world, for both adults and animals, and that means that finding the right supplement can take work and time.

Luckily for you, we’ve found five of the best krill oil supplements for dogs for 2019. By looking at the products we’ve reviewed, you should be able to find a product for your furry friend much quicker and much easier, helping them grab those benefits just as fast!

#1 VetIQ Maximum Strength Hip & Joint Soft Chews For Dogs

For dogs who are perhaps reaching middle age and are finding it difficult to move around quite as freely as they did when they were younger, VetIQ Maximum Strength Hip & Joint Soft Chews For Dogs are a great choice, and one which many users have found to be very successful in the past.

Not the cheapest option, but you can opt for different pack sizes if you want to try them out first. You can go for a 180 chew pack, or you can purchase a larger pack at 360 chews, if you know your dog gets along well with them. One serving is two chews, and these can be given to your dog as they are, if he or she will chew on them there and then, or you can mix them into their food if you want to disguise them a little – some dogs are a little picky with any type of supplement you try and give them!

USA made, these supplements contain 600mg of glucosamine, 210mg of MSM, and 210mg of krill oil, which gives you a three pronged attack on joint issues. Of course, the presence of a good amount of krill also helps with the immune system, thanks to the naturally occurring Astaxanthin (antioxidant) within krill, and the boost to brain function too.

Packs are re-sealable, so no worries about shelf life, and provided they are kept in a cool and dry place, you shouldn’t have any issues. The chews are also grain-free which helps to ensure a healthy diet, and for any dog which has specific dietary requirements.

Pros

Resealable bag for ease of storage
Can be purchased in different pack sizes, depending on whether your dog gets along well with them or not
Contains glucosamine, MSM and krill oil, which has naturally occurring Astaxanthin antioxidant benefit too
Most users state that their dogs showed more bounce and energy after taking these supplements for a short while, and many also stated their dogs were able to get up and down the stairs much more easily too

Cons

Quite an expensive product, and even the 180 chew pack is still quite large if your dog doesn’t necessarily find them useful
The chews are quite large, and can be difficult to hide in food, especially for slightly smaller dogs

#2 NaturVet Hemp Seed Oil Krill And Salmon

This is a slightly different type of supplement but one which certainly has beneficial effects for your furry friend. This product can be used for both cats and dogs, provided they are in good health, not pregnant, and over the age of 12 weeks.

Containing hemp seed oil, krill oil, and salmon oil, this liquid product is added to your pet’s food and. The dosage depends on the size of the animal, so be sure to check the label carefully, to ensure that you are giving them the right amount per day.

By using this product you are giving your pet a great source of natural antioxidants, but you’re also giving them the joint health benefits of krill oil and salmon oil, with huge boosts in the way of omega 3 fatty acids, as well as omega 6 too.

This product contains both DHA and EPA, so that means cardiovascular function is supported, brain health, and joint health too. In addition, the hemp seed oil helps strengthen the immune system and also prevents against skin problems and respiratory issues.

Most users of this product all stated that they saw a difference in their pet after use, however some said their animals wouldn’t eat their food when the liquid was added to it!

Pros

A relatively cheap way to give your pet a good dose of omega 3 fatty acids every day
If your dog doesn’t like chewy supplements, this could be a good way to get them to take the supplement, without them being aware
Suitable for both cats and dogs, which saves money if you have both in the household!
Protects against several issues, as well as for joint health and also brain function too

Cons

Some users stated their pet wouldn’t eat their food when the liquid was added to it, however this was only a small sample
It can be difficult to find the correct dosage, as it depends on your animal’s size and specific needs

#3 Stanvet Vet Krill Capsules

This particular krill oil supplement for dogs is a very affordable choice and one which most dogs will easily take on a daily basis. You can choose between two pack sizes, namely 60 or 120 capsules; in that case, opt for the smaller pack at first, until you’re sure that your dog is receiving benefit, and then opt for the larger one for the second month.

The serving size depends upon the size of your animal, and this supplement can also be used for cats too, which is ideal if you have both furry friends in house at the same time! For cats and dogs weighing up to 10kg, the serving is one capsule, every two days. This will be the general dose, however if your dog is larger, over 10kg, then the serving is one capsule per day, for each 10kg.

Stanvet Vet Krill Capsules are ideal for helping your dog with cardiovascular system improvement and risk reduction, helping with joints and inflammatory conditions, and also boosting eye health, renal health, and boosting the condition of their hair, whilst treating any skin conditions too.

Pros

An affordable choice which is available in two pack sizes
Capsules are small and can easily be added into food without your dog noticing
Can also be used for cats
Helps to protect against a range of different conditions, including boosting hair and skin health, as well as eye health and renal function
Ideal for dogs who need a little joint health protection as they reach middle age or older

Cons

You will need to change the dosage according to your animal’s weight, to ensure you’re given them the right amount, and not too much/too little

#4 Krill MAX Fish Oil For Dogs

This is a very popular choice and one which many pet owners use on a regular basis to give their dog a boost of joint and brain health. This product is a soft chewy supplement which contains 350mg of omega 3 benefit, via krill oil, including naturally occurring Astaxanthin and vitamin E content. All of this adds up to hip care, joint care, and benefits for their skin and hair too. The DHA and EPA content of this supplement is high, at 180mg EPA and 120mg DHA, for brain health too.

Most users who have given these supplements to their dogs all said that they had no problems getting their dog to take it, as the chews were easy to give as they were, or to hide within food. The chews are also flavoured, with chicken and cheese flavour, for extra persuasion to take it!

The price of this product is middle of the road, but the quality means the slightly extra cost compared to lower quality products is more than worth it. The pack size will also last for two months, which adds to the cost effectiveness side of things.

Pros

High quality product with many beneficial reviews
Contains a large amount of krill oil benefit, with EPA and DHA, as well as naturally occurring Astaxanthin
Also contains vitamin E content
Soft chews which are flavoured, to encourage your dog to take them more easily

Cons

There aren’t too many downsides to this product, however some users did mention they didn’t notice a difference until a few weeks after their dog started taking the supplements

#5 Hanzi Pets – Premium Antarctic Krill Oil Soft Chews For Dogs

Our final choice is a very popular option, which many users currently give to their dog on a daily basis. #1 Premium Antarctic Krill Oil Soft Chews by Hanzi Pets is a relatively cost effective choice, and the pack contains 60 soft chews which are in a savoury flavour, to encourage your dog to take them, either as they are, or within their food.

The supplements contain krill oil and naturally occurring Astaxanthin, as well as vitamin E to boost the health of their skin and hair. The product is free of gluten and corn, and doesn’t contain soy or wheat either. Due to the ingredients of the supplement, you are giving your dog a boost of cardiovascular health, eye health, cellular protection, as well as supporting brain function and of course, joint health too.

Vitamin E can also help your dog recover from injury far quicker than otherwise, which is useful if you have a very energetic dog who doesn’t seem to know his or her limitations!

Pros

Many positive reviews from previous users
A pack of 60 chews which is enough for two months
Chews are savoury in flavour, to encourage your dog to take them as they are, or when combined with their food
Contains vitamin E, as well as krill oil and naturally occurring Astaxanthin
Helps to boost health in general, as well as protecting joints, cardiovascular health, improving eye health, provided cellular protection, and also boosting the condition of hair and skin

Cons

It comes down to whether your dog is very choosy with their food or not, as a few users did mention their dog didn’t like the taste!

Conclusion

These five krill oil supplements for dogs are certainly high quality and choices which many dog owners currently give to their furry friend on a daily basis.

Choosing the best supplement for your dog will ensure you’re giving them the best life for as long as possible, helping to boost joint care, as well as their cardiovascular health and brain function. Many of these supplements also contain other ingredients, such as vitamin E, which helps with skin and hair/coat too.

Adele Taylor

Adele Taylor
Writer, Product Tester.

Adele is a budding content writer with a passion for all things health and fitness related. In her time off Adele enjoys reading, travelling and exploring Sydney’s culinary delights.