Probiotics are often found in yogurts, fermented foods, and dietary supplements. These live microorganisms can help support the balance of your gut microbiome, which plays a role in digestion, energy levels, and even skin and mood health. But with hundreds of probiotic products available on the market today, knowing how to pick the right one can be confusing.
If you are searching for a probiotic to support your gut health, it is important to know what really matters. Some products may look good on the surface but lack the essential features that deliver real benefits. In this blog, we will break down 4 things to look for in a probiotic (CFU Count, Probiotic Strains, Expiration Date, Added Ingredients) so that you can make a more informed choice.
What is the CFU count and why does it matter?
CFU stands for Colony Forming Units, which refers to the number of live microorganisms present in each serving of the probiotic. It is one of the most important factors to consider. A probiotic should clearly state the CFU count on its label.
Many experts suggest choosing a product that offers at least 1 billion CFUs per serving. However, more is not always better. What matters is that the strains used are clinically studied and that the CFUs are stable through the end of the product’s shelf life—not just at the time of manufacture.
Some products promote extremely high CFU numbers, but if those organisms are not backed by research or cannot survive stomach acid, they may not reach your gut at all. A stable probiotic like Bacillus Coagulans MTCC 5856, used in Sandhu’s GUT Health 4-in-1 capsule, is known for delivering benefits in every serving.
What probiotic strains are used?
Not all probiotics are the same. The specific strains used in a product play a big role in how it can support your health. Some strains help support digestion, while others may support the body’s natural response to seasonal changes or help ease discomfort after meals.
Look for a product that mentions the full name of the strain on its label (for example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG or Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856). A clear strain name shows transparency and helps you do your own research on its benefits.
Some of the best probiotic strains to look for include:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus – commonly found in the small intestine; helps with nutrient absorption
- Bifidobacterium bifidum – may support digestion and overall balance in the large intestine
- Saccharomyces boulardii – a well-known yeast strain that helps maintain gut flora, especially during travel or stress
- Lactobacillus plantarum – may help ease occasional digestive discomfort
- Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 – known for its shelf-stable nature and ability to survive harsh stomach acid
Sandhu’s GUT Health includes probiotic strains like Bacillus Coagulans MTCC 5856, which are shelf-stable and do not need refrigeration. These strains are selected for their ability to help maintain the gut microbiome’s balance and support daily digestive comfort.
How do I check the expiration date and storage needs?
It is easy to ignore the expiration date on a supplement bottle, but with probiotics, it is critical. Live cultures lose strength over time, especially if they are not stored properly. Make sure the product clearly shows a “best by” or “use by” date, and check if it requires refrigeration.
Shelf-stable probiotics are a great choice, especially if you travel often or live in warm areas. Look for products that guarantee live CFUs through the end of shelf life, not just at the time of manufacturing.
Sandhu’s probiotic capsules are designed to be shelf-stable, meaning they stay effective without the need for refrigeration, and come with a clear expiration date printed on the label.
What other ingredients are added?
When choosing a probiotic supplement, always check the other ingredients listed. Some products contain added sugars, artificial flavors, or fillers that may not support your gut. Instead, look for added ingredients that actually help the probiotics do their job better.
Prebiotics (the food for good bacteria), postbiotics (metabolites produced by probiotics), and other nutrients can make a probiotic supplement more complete.
Sandhu’s GUT Health formula combines four elements in one capsule:
- Probiotics (Bacillus Coagulans MTCC 5856)
- Prebiotics to help feed the good bacteria
- Postbiotics that help support balance and ease
- L-glutamine, which plays a role in gut lining health
This all-in-one blend is ideal for those looking for simple daily gut support in a single, easy-to-swallow capsule.
Why should I consider a complete gut formula?
Most people think only probiotics matter, but your gut needs more than just live bacteria. Prebiotics, postbiotics, and amino acids like L-glutamine also support gut health from different angles. Instead of juggling multiple bottles, many people find it helpful to choose one product that includes all of these elements.
A complete product can help support regular digestion, reduce occasional gas or bloating discomfort, and help maintain the natural balance of gut bacteria. When looking at labels, try to find a blend that supports this full spectrum of gut wellness.
Every person’s gut is different, so the right probiotic for one person may not work the same for another. That said, choosing a product that checks off the above four boxes gives you a stronger foundation.
Here is a quick recap of what to look for:
- CFU Count – Look for a clearly stated, shelf-stable amount.
- Probiotic Strains – Make sure they are named and clinically studied.
- Expiration Date – Check for freshness and storage instructions.
- Added Ingredients – Look for prebiotics, postbiotics, and gut-friendly support.
If you are unsure where to start, Sandhu’s GUT Health is a great option to consider. It offers science-backed strains, gut-friendly ingredients, and convenient shelf-stable packaging—all packed in a single daily capsule.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right probiotic does not have to be confusing. By focusing on these four main areas—CFU count, strain quality, expiration and storage, and helpful added ingredients—you can make a better choice that fits your lifestyle and gut needs.
Whether you are dealing with occasional bloating, digestive discomfort, or just want to help maintain a balanced gut, choosing a quality supplement like Sandhu’s GUT Health can make your wellness routine a lot easier. Just one capsule a day could be a small but meaningful habit to help support your gut and overall well-being.
