Probiotic suggestions

Good morning everyone! I'm curious what kind of probiotics other DS'ers take. I know some take over the counter, and some have mentioned a prescription probiotic. Any recommendations for what works well (I know it's different for each person)?

Thanks in advance!

I don't take any. I've learned to be more strategic about using the stink to my advantage.

When someone's giving me a high pressure sales pitch, bam. A snotty receptionist at the doctors office will get a whiff, someone on a cell phone standing next to me - you get the idea.

I tried all kinds of OTC but only the prescription strength VSL#3 works for me. You can buy VSL#3 over-the-counter but it's better for me as a prescription and paying through insurance and medical savings account. It took my body a good month to get used to the prescription dose but it's still working like a charm 2 years later. The VSL#3 in prescription is a powder packet and I take a 1/2 teaspoon twice a day mixed in yogurt, protein shake or salad.

My surgeon's intern/fellow had never heard of it and I had to fight to get a prescription to try-- had to make 2 office visits for it but it has paid off big time. Now the docs and the dietitian know this stuff works and they can prescribe it if patients are having trouble.

--gina

Thanks Gina! Can you tell me what the VSL stands for? What are the active ingredients in that??

VSL is actually what's on the label. There are 900 billion bacteria in each packet. My happy spot is a 1/2 teaspoon twice a day. Here's the link if you need to understand more and battle your doc. http://www.vsl3.com/discover/whyvsl3.asp

--gina

I didnt take a probiotic or flagyl for 5 years, then I started taking VSL#3DS, like Gina stated what a world of difference, I would never go back to not taking it.

I tried sending airbender a PM, however her profile is set to private. Can anyone tell me what kind of a difference the probiotics make in your daily life? Is it a smelly bathroom issue that gets cleared up, gas issue, I've ordered some VSL3 to try, and am just curious what to expect!

Thanks in advance!

Did probiotics help alleviate stomach "gurgling"? My stomacb has gotten gurglier over the years and I'm not sure why. I dont really have gas but no matter what i eat, i get gurgles. Loud gurgles. Thinking of trying a probiotic.

I am also wondering what the benefits of taking the probiotics are. Less gurgling, different potty, etc?

I culture my own kefir.  You can choose what kind of milk you want and it's inexpensive after the initial investment of under $8.  I am 11 years post op and probiotics DO matter