The human gut contains a vast ecosystem of microbes, which have a huge impact on our health(1). The human microbiome is a booming field of research, and we now know that the trillions of bacteria, viruses, fungi and other microbes living in our bodies affect immune function, digestion, and energy metabolism. 

The microbiome impacts the way we digest and assimilate nutrients from our food, with a recent study describing the microbiome as “a key factor in shaping the biochemical profile of the diet”(2).  Our microbes also make certain essential vitamins and amino acids that we can’t make ourselves, including several B vitamins, as well as Vitamin K2 which plays an important role in blood clotting, calcium metabolism and heart health(3)


Probiotics have been shown to help re-colonise the gut by introducing microbial strains that are known to have a beneficial effect on our health. There is now overwhelming evidence showing that probiotics, including transient species can have a positive impact on gene expression and immune regulation(4)(5)


One of the most pure and advanced probiotics available is
Smidge® Optimal Probiotic Capsules.  It contains a unique blend of the most human-compatible bacteria, specifically formulated to improve gut microbe biology. When used in combination with a healthy diet and lifestyle, Primal Gut can help to jump start the rebalancing and restoration of healthy gut microbiota. 


Optimal Probiotic Capsules is a 13-strain probiotic blend made by Smidge®. Smidge® are a trusted source of premium supplements and make the most pure and potent probiotics available, with no additives, chemicals, allergens or fillers. The range also includes Sensitive Probiotic and Infant Probiotic which we have written about here. All Smidge® probiotics have been formulated to minimise production of histamine and d-lactate, they contain the most human-compatible bacterial strains to nourish your inner ecosystem. 

 

Smidge® Probiotics Range

OPTIMAL PROBIOTIC CAPSULES

SENSITIVE PROBIOTIC

INFANT PROBIOTIC

Ideal for those who have used probiotics in the past, have stable digestion and are looking to introduce a wider range of bacteria 

Ideal for those who are serious about gut health, whether you have a sensitive digestive system or are looking to get an edge (available in Capsules too) 

Ideal for infants or toddlers, to help colonise their digestive systems with healthy bacteria from the get-go 

Complete blend of 13 probiotic strains: L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. paracasei, L. casei and L. breve 

Blend of 8 clinically-proven probiotic strains: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus salivarius, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium lactis  

Gentle yet potent blend of 7 probiotic strains, comprised of 50% Bifidobacterium infantis, which dominates breastfed babies’ intestines  

Minimises histamine production

Minimises histamine production

Minimises histamine production

Minimises d-lactate production

Minimises d-lactate production

Minimises d-lactate production

Formula for adults and children

Formula for adults and children

Formula for adults, children and Infants 

 

Benefits of Optimal Probiotic Capsules  

- A strong and well-regulated immune system thanks to the vigilant bacteria inside of your system 
- Greatly improved digestion that will help break down nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy 
- A healthy urinary and reproductive tract thanks to the healthy microbes occupying your urogenital tract that produce chemicals keeping problematic microbes in check  
- A sharp memory, good concentration and overall positive feeling 

Optimal Probiotic Capsules contain histamine-degrading species  

Histamine is part of a natural and healthy immune response to local or systemic inflammation. 

Many compromised people produce too much histamine. Once histamine levels are elevated, it may be difficult to break down the excess histamines in the body. This cycle is sometimes referred to as histamine intolerance (6). 

If you have experienced any histamine issues, you may well benefit from  managing your natural histamine response more in a holistic way. One option is to reduce the amount of histamine-rich foods that you eat. Carefully selected probiotics can also help, provided they contain only histamine-neutral or histamine-degrading bacterial strains.  

Optimal Probiotic Capsules and D-lactate  

D-lactic acidosis occurs when the body is unable to properly metabolise excess d-lactate. Symptoms can include headaches, irritability and being unable to concentrate. All Smidge® probiotics are formulated to minimise production of d-lactate. Optimal Probiotic Capsules have been designed for people who can tolerate some d-lactate and are ready for a more complex gut flora supplement. If you have experienced issues with d-lactate, you may be best to begin with Sensitive Probiotic and then move up to taking Optimal Probiotic Capsules as the next step in improving overall gut health.  

How do I take Optimal Optimal Probiotic Capsules?  

Optimal Probiotic Capsules are a premium, pure and potent probiotic with 15 billion CFU’s per 1/16 teaspoon. It is important to start slowly, for example, a very small dose every other day, or even once a week, until you can determine how the supplement affects your body and what dose feels right for you. 

When you first begin taking Optimal Probiotic Capsules, the rebalance in your inner ecosystem may cause unwanted bacteria dying off. Some people may experience a little discomfort in the initial two weeks of starting. Beginning with a smaller dose and building this up gradually can help with some symptoms associated with “die off”, by gently rebalancing the gut microbiota.   

Optimal Probiotic Capsules should be taken before or with a meal, ideally with a meal that includes some organic fat or oil. Taking it with food can help the capsule safely get through the digestive tract. Food can also help the good bacteria in the capsule thrive in your gut. 

Can Optimal Probiotic Capsules be taken during pregnancy?  

All Smidge® probiotics have been shown to be safe during pregnancy, but as always we recommend checking with your doctor first and always start low and slow with the dosage. Breastfeeding mums can begin on Infant Probiotic, but may also use Optimal Probiotic Capsules and Sensitive Probiotic safely.  

Supplements should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. Always read labels, warnings and instructions provided with products before consuming or using any product. If you are 18 years or younger, pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, have a medical condition, or are allergic to any listed ingredients, please consult your doctor or healthcare professional before using a product. If adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately and consult a doctor. Where applicable, do not use if safety seal is broken or missing. Keep out of reach of children. 


References
1.
Defining the Human Microbiome - NCBI - NIH
2.
Gut microbiota functions: metabolism of nutrients and other food components 
3. The contribution of vitamin K2 (menaquinones) produced by the intestinal microflora to human nutritional requirements for vitamin K.
4. A systematic review of the safety of probiotics
5. Digital Immune Gene Expression Profiling Discriminates Allergic Rhinitis Responders from Non-Responders to Probiotic Supplementation.
6.
Histamine and histamine intolerance