Probiotics Guide

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help support intestinal and digestive health. Learn how they work, how probiotics differ from prebiotics, and what to consider when choosing a formula.¹,²

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms, often beneficial bacteria, used to support intestinal and gastrointestinal health.¹

What does CFU mean?

CFU stands for colony-forming units. It tells you how many live probiotic microorganisms are provided in a serving.³

Does the probiotic strain matter?

Yes. Different strains can have different uses, so the type of probiotic can matter as much as the CFU count.¹

What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?

Probiotics provide beneficial live microorganisms, while prebiotics feed beneficial bacteria already living in your gut.¹,²

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can help support a healthy digestive system. Many are types of beneficial bacteria naturally associated with the gut.¹ 

A probiotic may contain one or several strains, which simply means specific types of bacteria or yeast. Prebiotics are different: instead of adding microorganisms, they feed beneficial bacteria already living in your gut.¹,² 

How do probiotics support gut health?

Your digestive tract contains a large community of microorganisms, often called gut flora or the gut microbiome. Probiotics add specific beneficial microorganisms that can help support a healthy balance.¹ 

Prebiotics work differently by feeding beneficial bacteria already in the gut. Some prebiotics are fibres, but not all fibre is prebiotic and not all prebiotics are fibre.² 

Which health goals can probiotics support?

Digestive Health

Probiotics can help support intestinal and gastrointestinal health.¹

Healthy Gut Flora

Probiotics can help promote or maintain a favourable balance of microorganisms in the gut.¹

Diarrhea Support

Certain probiotic strains may help reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea when used at specific amounts.¹

How can probiotics fit into your routine?

Probiotics are often used as part of an everyday routine focused on digestive balance. 

  • For everyday gut health: Some formulas are designed for regular digestive support. 
  • During antibiotic use: Certain strains may help with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.¹ 
  • For different life stages: There are formulas designed for babies, children, adults, women, and older adults. 
  • Feed your gut too: Fibre-rich foods support digestive health, while certain ingredients act specifically as prebiotics by feeding beneficial gut bacteria.² 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

What should you look for in a probiotic?

Start with why you’re taking it, then compare the strains, strength, and format.

  • Check the strains: Different probiotic strains can have different uses.¹ 
  • Check the CFU: This tells you how many live microorganisms are provided. 
  • Don’t assume more is always better: A higher CFU count doesn’t automatically make a probiotic better for your needs. 
  • Match your life stage: Look for formulas appropriate for your age and intended use. 
  • Choose a format: Jamieson offers capsules, gummies, chewables, and drops. 
  • Check storage directions: Some probiotics may require different storage conditions to maintain live microorganisms. 
  • Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN. 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine.  

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FAQs
What does CFU mean in probiotics?

CFU stands for colony-forming units, which is the way live probiotic microorganisms are counted. It helps show how many viable microorganisms are provided in a serving.³

Is a higher CFU probiotic always better?

No. CFU is only one part of choosing a probiotic. The strains, intended use, age group, and product directions also matter.¹

What’s the difference between probiotic strains?

A strain is a specific type of probiotic microorganism. Different strains can have different uses, which is why two probiotics with the same CFU count may not provide exactly the same support.¹

Sources

1. Health Canada. Probiotics Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated April 24, 2026.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq?atid=probio 

2. Health Canada. Prebiotics Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated April 24, 2026.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/dbImages/mono_prebiotics_english.pdf 

3. Health Canada. Quality of Natural Health Products Guide.[Text Wrapping Break]https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/drugs-health-products/natural-non-prescription/legislation-guidelines/guidance-documents/quality-guide.html