Posted 11/21/2012 11:19 PM (GMT 0)
Probiotics are probably the most popular supplement for IBDers. There are numerous research studies showing that certain probiotics, such as Saccharomyces Boulardii and Culturelle, are effective for maintaining remission. VSL#3 is shown to prevent pouchitis. But as Gumby said we are all different and certain probiotics are more compatible than other. Benebiotic and RenewLife Ultimate Flora are also very popular choices.
Regular VSL#3 is one of the most popular probiotics with almost half a trillion units of bacteria. Most supplements contain 10 to 50 billion. The only prescription probiotic I know of is VSL#3DS (DS=double strength) with almost a trillion colony forming units. The big advantage of the prescription version is many more bacteria, of course, and because it is prescription your health insurance may pay for part of the cost. VSL#3 is very expensive otherwise.
I suggest finding a probiotic (or two) that is compatible with your body chemistry, i.e. you don't have side effects such as gas, etc. I take VSL#3DS only every other day because it is expensive. On off days it is Culturelle, Benebiotic, or S. Boulardii. Culturelle recommends one capsule per day but I find that taking 3-4 is more effective. It is more expensive but I tell myself that it is cheaper than Asacol.
I find probiotics to be very effective for counteracting IBD symptoms that arise after I have eaten something bad.