Many people are now aware that probiotics come with tons of benefits for the overall health and immune system.
However, what most people don’t know is that probiotics can take and be taken in several different forms. Those two forms are primarily probiotic pills vs. liquid.
Pills include chewable tablets, enteric coated capsules, and regular freeze-dried capsules. Liquid probiotics have considerably more variations in the form of liquid supplements and probiotic-enriched drinks. It is a given that liquids are definitely better for infants, elderly and people who have trouble swallowing tablets.
However, there is more than that when it comes to probiotic pills vs. liquid. Here is everything you need to know about the ideal form of probiotics for your needs.
Probiotic Pills
You are likely to be confronted with a whole range of probiotic supplements upon walking into your local health store or supermarket. Some of these require refrigeration while most can be picked right off the shelves. Capsules are among the most common and convenient probiotic supplements.
The convenience factor comes from ease of storage and carry. Capsules or pills which do not require refrigeration use freeze-dried technology to preserve the microorganisms in a dormant state. This is one of the best arguments for probiotic pills vs. liquid.
The microorganisms are sealed in blister packs or specially sealed capsules. These are easier to carry while traveling. This can be handy when you living an active life.
There are some pills out there which require refrigeration in order to protect moisture and heat sensitive organisms. There are certain strains of bacteria like Bacillus coagulansand few probiotic yeast strains that are heat and moisture resistant and do not require refrigeration.
Capsules are sold by almost every major probiotic brand. However, different brands include different varieties of strains and quantities. Hence, it is important that you read labels carefully. Chewable tablets are primarily for children.
Several brands have developed probiotic gummies for adults as well. Artificial sweeteners in these gummies are not always healthy. However, chewable tablets can be a healthy option for people looking to get their different organisms in a convenient format.
Probiotic Liquids
Liquids are typically in the refrigerated section of a health food store. These probiotics are unstable in warm temperatures and will taste differently. Many experts claim that liquid probiotics are the freshest and most potent sources for these good bacteria. Definitely something to consider when you are weighing probiotic pills vs. liquid.
They are definitely the more convenient option and an easy format for people who detest swallowing pills. However, they can easily turn into a hassle if you are traveling.
Probiotic drinks are also categorized under liquids. These are regular food sources which are probiotic enriched for that extra fix and is certainly much healthier than drinking a Pepsi or a Coca Cola. They are available in a variety of options from kefir. to kombucha, to probiotic juices.
You are likely to find a number of drinkable bottle options that claim to contain probiotics. Some of these forms such as kefir water are indeed valuable sources of probiotics. However, make sure to check the label to understand the number of strands present within.
The Difference
Probiotics pills vs. liquid form vary only on personal preference aspects. Here is the rundown:
Convenience
Capsules are definitely more convenient than liquid bottles because they can be carried anywhere. However, you need to make sure that your probiotic pills are not the refrigerated kinds.
Some non-refrigerated types cannot be taken out of their blister packs and kept in pill boxes. That said pills are definitely more convenient than liquids because you can take them anywhere at any time.
Storage
Most liquid probiotics need to be refrigerated, especially the juices and probiotic drinks. However, most pills available in the market today are shelf stable and do not require refrigeration.
This can be helpful when you are traveling and need to carry your probiotics along with you. Probiotics are especially vital when you are on-the-go to prevent travel stresses and other triggers from affecting your gastrointestinal tract.
Ingestion
Probiotic liquids are drinkable which makes them a good option for people who don’t want to or canno swallow pills. They are a more palatable option for children and elderly. Capsules are not preferred by everyone because of their size.
Flavor
Most capsules have a distinct chalky flavor which is not liked by many people. Probiotics drinks and beverages on the other hand come in a wide variety of flavors and make a more refreshing option.
However, capsules are easier to take with meals. Probiotics in liquid form may interfere with your food. For instance, it is difficult to drink kefir water when you are having oats with milk for breakfast.
Liquid Capsules vs Pills
There are a number of brands that offer probiotics in liquid capsules instead of pills. These have the benefits of a liquid probiotics however with the convenience of a pill format. This make dosing easier as well as transport and use of the pills.
How to Choose?
You need to check whether a supplement contains live and active culture or not. Your body can only benefit from living probiotics. This means that formats that specify refrigeration should be refrigerated.
You need to consume these immediately if you want the complete benefits from the good bacteria inside. Likewise, you need to check the label for expiration date and claims of content.
Probiotics can benefit a wide range of gastrointestinal disorders regardless of the format. It is important that you pay attention to the type of bacteria strain present in the probiotic.
Each strain has unique functions and different effects on the body. Before you purchase a product, identify your need for it. Ask yourself whether you want probiotics to address digestive issues or boost your immunity?
While choosing a product, pay significant attention on its storage and transport. For instance, if you order your probiotics online, then you need to ensure that probiotics that require refrigeration are handled correctly. It is recommended that you press the button for probiotics which are not heat and moisture sensitive to avoid any transport and storage mishaps.
Check the label to identify whether the probiotic pills vs. liquid strains are viable at production or viable to a certain date, like the expiry date. Probiotic supplements list the number of colony forming units on the package labels.
However, manufacturing, storage and transport takes its toll on microorganisms present within. Products that claim to be viable to a certain date have a better chance at delivering live and active bacteria to your gut.
Outstanding for the Long Haul
Probiotics are measured in terms of health benefits and value for money. Apart from personal preferences, there is no major difference in swallowing or drinking your probiotic pills vs. liquid supplements. What matters is whether the product gives you the promised benefits and improves your health and immunity in the long run.
