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Our Members Asked:

Do probiotics have to be enterically coated to be effective?

Reviewed and edited by Tod Cooperman, M.D. Tod Cooperman, M.D.

Last Updated: 08/03/2017 | Initially Posted: 07/25/2015

Answer:

In general, most Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus species of probiotics (all very common in supplements) do not need enteric coating as they can survive passage through the stomach. Although enteric coating may increase the number of cells that survive, there are potential downsides. More details are found in the "Withstanding stomach acid" and "Cautions and Concerns" sections of the Probiotic Supplements Review.

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