5 Reasons Why Your Probiotics Will Cause Weight Gain Instead

(This post was updated on June 1, 2020.)

Many of us are always on the lookout for more effective ways in managing weight. Probiotics are high on the list, with celebrities seemingly tethered to their bottles of fermented kombucha.

It can be pretty overwhelming with the abundance of health information related to probiotics and weight management.

Which probiotic strain to take?

How often do i take it?

How long before results start to show?

In order to make the best decision, one first needs to consider all the facts.

Truth is, not all probiotic products are created equally and they don’t all carry the same benefits. There are several factors like the type of probiotic strain to attributes like an individual’s biology, diet and lifestyle that can significantly influence the intended results.

Here are 5 possible reasons why taking the wrong probiotics may cause weight gain.

1. Commercial Probiotic Foods And Drinks Are Overloaded With Sugar

There is the common misconception that a probiotic food or drink is a healthy product. This isn’t necessarily the case. These products are often typical yogurts, and other drinks, with a higher probiotic count.

Researchers at the University of Reading have analyzed the contents of probiotic yogurts.[1] and concluded that the combination of milk proteins, lactose and sugar, all help to increase the survival rate of the bacteria. Therefore, there is a good reason why manufacturers place these probiotic strains in these yogurts in the first place.

This can mean good news and bad news for consumers. We all want products that are effective and yogurt can be more appealing than supplementation. However, high sugar content isn’t going to help those weight loss efforts.

For anyone looking to manage weight, consider reducing the consumption on such products. It’s perfectly alright to enjoy it once in awhile or even daily, but do make sure it is part of a healthy diet with plenty of exercise to burn off those extra calories.

2. Most Capsules Aren’t Designed To Deliver The Benefits

Multiple studies have indicated the importance of the role probiotics play in impacting stubborn fat. But a commonly overlooked factor is the delivery system of these weight management probiotics.

Capsules of probiotic supplements are just as important as the bacteria within. These probiotics need a secure delivery system in order to reach the gut intact. This will allow them to stimulate digestion, reduce bloating and increase the body’s metabolism. Over time it can elevate mood, reduce cravings and even lower the risk of depression.

If a product starts dissolving on your tongue, it’s likely it might not stand a chance with stomach acid.

This can prove to be counterproductive, especially when one begins to consume more calories, assuming that the probiotics will help burn them off, when in actual fact, the probiotics have not been given the chance to multiply and thrive in the gut.

3. Some Strains Of Probiotics Can't Survive Long Enough To Bring About Effective Weight Loss

There are lots of different types of probiotic bacteria that companies use in their drinks and supplements. Some are more potent than others, with a higher chance of creating the right reactions in the gut. Others may not be hardy enough to make it that far.

It isn’t just the shell of the capsule that needs to be strong here. The living bacteria within have a shelf life and this means a risk of ingesting dead strains.

There is also the problem of refrigeration. Some strains need constant refrigeration to survive, which is fine for yogurts and related drinks at home. But factor in the product being in transit or displayed in a store for extended periods of time; which results in a high chance that the product may no longer helpful. One would now be drinking a sugary yogurt drink and gaining weight due to the inactive ingredients.

4. Some Probiotic Strains Promote Obesity Instead

Ongoing studies into the use of probiotics and bacteria suggest that some strains can in fact promote obesity.[2]

Lactobacillus Acidophilus is one such strain, and has shown to alter gut bacteria levels to such an extent that it actually promotes cellular growth. This is why some of these forms of probiotics are administered to livestock with the purpose of fattening them up.

It is essential to read the labels on any products before purchasing. Avoid Lactobacillus Acidophilus and opt for Lactobacillus Gasseri instead.

Lactobacillus Gasseri or L Gasseri is a “thermogenic” probiotic, which means it has the ability to generate heat in the body with the purpose of metabolizing fat.

Studies have clearly shown the "anti-obesity" effects of this particular probiotic strain and it’s benefits to healthy weight management.

5. Weight Management Probiotics More Effective With Additional Natural Ingredients

There are many people who consume probiotic drinks for gut health and to have an improved sense of well-being. But in order to positively influence weight management long-term, one needs to consider the probiotic supplements formulated with additional natural ingredients to increase effectiveness.

The more natural the formula, the healthier it is. Turmeric is a great example of an extra component, and a popular choice right now in teas. Some of the best products also use Piperine Extract to enhance the efficiency of the ingredients.

The current craze for turmeric isn’t a new fad. Research has shown that it’s effect on weight management and metabolism when used responsibly.[3] These studies refer to bioavailable curcumin, which is the scientific term for an active ingredient in turmeric. Test subjects on a 30 day trial saw reductions in waistlines, hip circumference and BMI. This clearly highlights the efficacy of turmeric in probiotics for belly fat reduction.

Choosing the Right Probiotics for Weight Loss 

It all comes down to the right ingredients in the right capsule.

In order for the probiotic to be truly effective, one needs to take account of the many variables that potentially affect the potential of probiotic products. Limited ingredients or a weak capsule can reduce the efficacy of a product. Add in the nutritional issues with probiotic foods and this leads to the possibility of unwanted weight gain.

Research has already been conducted on a new species of probiotics called “thermogenic” probiotics which have the ability to mimic the positive effects thermogenic supplements like green tea extract, caffeine and capsicum but minus the negative side effects.

The results from the research study has been positive with evidence pointing to increased body metabolism, better management calorie absorption and breakdown of fat cells.

So if you’re already dieting, exercising or trying to live a healthy lifestyle but aren’t getting fast enough results, consider supplementing with a thermogenic probiotic formula for better speed and efficiency.

Here at Better Body Co., we have done all the research and developed what we believe is the first Thermogenic Probiotic of its kind.