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What is Culturelle?

Culturelle is a dietary supplement that aids in digestive health and immune system function. It comes as a cellulose capsule wrapped in protective foil and is manufactured by ConAgra Functional Foods. Culturelle contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that live in your digestive system, helping to digest food, avoid stomach discomfort, and produce certain vitamins that your body needs. Probiotics are found in yogurt, kefir, cheese and other foods.

  1. Features

    • Culturelle contains the probiotic Lactobacillus GG, which was discovered by Sherwood Gorbach and Barry Goldin, both of Tufts University, in 1985 while they were conducting research. Unlike many other probiotics, Lactobacillus GG is strong enough to survive the harsh acids found in the stomach and multiply in the digestive tract, where it can do the most good. It has proved safe and effective in more than 200 clinical trials.

    Types

    • Culturelle is available in five different forms. There is a Culturelle product designed for children under 100 pounds, a dairy and gluten free product, a dairy-free version with a prebiotic, a product especially for upset stomach and diarrhea, and a regular version for daily use.

    Benefits

    • Each Culturelle capsule contains over 30 billion bacteria. These bacteria can help to maintain a healthy balance of the good and bad bacteria in the digestive system. Numerous research studies, such as those conducted by Rosemary J. Young, R.N., M.S., at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, have proven Culturelle's effectiveness in controlling traveler's diarrhea and antibiotic-caused diarrhea, and providing immune system support. It can reduce gas and bloating from food allergies and viruses as well.

    Considerations

    • For everyday use, to maintain a healthy digestive tract or for periods of digestive upset, take one capsule daily; it can be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Culturelle can even be given to very young children at the same dosage. If children are too young to swallow the capsules, open them and mix their contents with applesauce or milk. Culturelle can be stored at room temperature or refrigerated. Protect it from humidity, and high heat.

    Availability

    • Culturelle is widely available in major grocery stores, pharmacies and health food stores. Look for a yellow box with a green oval in the vitamin, nutrition or digestive aids departments. You can also order Culturelle online at culturelle.com.

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