Probiotic supplements in liquid form have gained popularity in recent years. But are liquid probiotics better than pills?
Let’s examine the differences between probiotic pills and liquid probiotics and discover which one may be the better choice for you.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, including beneficial bacteria, yeasts, and fungi, that naturally reside in the human digestive tract.
Although these beneficial microbes are located in the gut, they interact with various physiological systems and influence a wide range of bodily functions.
Research published in ISRN Nutrition indicates that probiotics support a diverse gut microbiome, which is linked to strong immune system function, digestive health, and metabolic balance.1
To be classified as a probiotic, a microbe must be alive when consumed and safe for human consumption.
Probiotics naturally occur in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, natto, miso, kefir, and yogurt, and can be obtained in supplemental form.
Factors such as chronic stress, antibiotic use, and the consumption of sugar, processed foods, and alcohol can affect the microbial diversity of the microbiome, prompting many to incorporate probiotics to support a healthy body.
Evidence published in Nutrients summarizes, “Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) negatively impact gut health in several ways, including reducing the diversity of the gut microbiota and inducing changes in specific bacterial populations.”2
Watch the video below to learn about health benefits of probiotics you may have never heard of.
Benefits and uses of liquid probiotics
Functional probiotic drinks and liquid probiotics are created by fermenting probiotic bacteria with a prebiotic medium, resulting in a liquid that contains high concentrations of live bacteria.
Most liquid probiotics are formulated with various strains of probiotic bacteria, including Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus, and may also contain enzymes and vitamins.
“Liquid probiotics are readily absorbed and have a shorter transit time through the gastrointestinal tract than pills,” explains Dr. Berg. “This helps deliver more healthy bacteria into the gut.”
Compared to probiotic pills that release probiotics into the small intestines, liquid probiotics expose all parts of the gastrointestinal tract to beneficial microbes, which may provide unique health benefits.
In addition to supporting a healthy gut and digestive functions, liquid probiotics may also benefit oral health.
A study published in Microbial Ecology in Health and Disease suggests that liquid supplements containing probiotic strains of bacteria, including Lactobacillus casei and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, may support the integrity of gum tissue and help strengthen the resilience of tooth enamel.3
Benefits and uses of probiotic capsules and tablets
Probiotic pills are oral supplements that contain one or more strains of beneficial bacteria or yeasts.
Enteric-coated capsules and pills are designed to withstand the harsh acidity of stomach acid and release probiotics in the small intestine, delivering these microbes directly into the gut.
While probiotic pills may not offer substantial benefits for oral health, they’re linked to comparable health advantages as liquid probiotics.
Increasing gut bacteria diversity with probiotic supplements may help support overall well-being by promoting digestive health, strong immune defenses, and better brain function.
In addition, certain bacterial strains may benefit metabolic health by enhancing the body’s ability to maintain steady blood sugar levels linked to better weight management and hormonal balance.
Liquid probiotics vs. capsules and tablets: which is better?
Deciding whether you should opt for probiotic pills or liquid probiotics depends on personal preferences, convenience, and your health goals.
Both liquid and tablet forms have specific advantages and considerations, and which one is the better option can vary from person to person.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing a probiotic supplement.
Potency and dosage
While the potency and dosage of probiotic supplements vary greatly, liquid probiotics may contain a wider variety of probiotic strains and often deliver more colony-forming units (CFUs) per serving than probiotic pills.
CFU is a measure that indicates how many viable microbes are present in a probiotic supplement at the time of production, and it’s generally recommended to opt for products with at least 60 billion CFUs per serving.
Products with fewer CFUs may not deliver enough probiotic bacteria into the gut to support health and well-being.
Liquid supplements offer flexibility in adjusting the dosage, which can be beneficial for individuals who want to fine-tune their probiotic intake.
In contrast, capsules, pills, and tablets contain precise doses, which avoids over- or underdosing and helps maintain a consistent probiotic intake.
Taste
Probiotic pills have little to no taste due to their outer coating that masks any flavor.
While some liquid probiotics are relatively flavor-neutral, others can have a noticeable taste ranging from slightly tangy to sour and may contain sweeteners or preservatives that can influence the product’s flavor.
However, most probiotic supplements can be added to water or smoothies, which can make strongly flavored liquid probiotics more palatable.
Shelf life
Probiotic supplements contain live probiotic cultures, which gradually lose viable bacteria over time. This explains why probiotics generally have a shorter shelf life than most other dietary supplements.
Probiotics in pill form are more resistant to light, heat, and moisture and typically have a shelf life of around one year. Liquid formulations are more susceptible to environmental factors and can lose potency after a few months.
Many liquid probiotics require refrigeration to prolong the lifespan of beneficial bacteria and extend the product’s shelf life.
However, some liquid probiotics are formulated with specific probiotic strains that create a self-sustaining ecosystem, which helps maintain a longer shelf life without the need for refrigeration.
It’s crucial to carefully read labels and check the expiry date and storage requirements of the probiotic supplement you plan to use.
Ease of use
Probiotic pills are often a preferred choice for individuals who dislike certain flavors. Pills, tablets, or capsules also don’t require measuring, making them a convenient source of probiotics that can be quickly ingested.
Liquid probiotics can be easily added to drinks or food and are an excellent option for those with difficulty swallowing pills.
In addition, it’s easy to adjust liquid probiotic dosages, which allows accurate supplementation tailored to the specific needs of individuals, including children and older adults.
Convenience
Probiotic supplements are an excellent way to promote a healthy body for individuals who don’t consume enough probiotic foods.
Pills are convenient for travel and an active lifestyle. They’re easy to transport, quick to consume, don’t require refrigeration, and can be taken without measuring or additional preparation.
Liquid supplements can be added to food and beverages, making them a convenient choice for those who find it easier to remember taking supplements with a specific meal or at a particular time of day.
When not to take liquid probiotics
Probiotic supplements are generally considered safe and well-tolerated by most people.
However, some individuals are allergic to ingredients in liquid probiotics, and it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider immediately if you develop wheezing, swelling, or difficulty breathing after taking a liquid probiotic product.
Evidence published in Clinical Infectious Disease recommends that individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or taking immunosuppressant drugs, avoid probiotics due to an increased risk of microbial infection.4
It’s also important to discard liquid probiotics that haven’t been stored correctly.
If a liquid supplement requires refrigeration and has been left unrefrigerated for an extended period, it may be susceptible to contamination by potentially harmful microbes.
Key takeaways
Are you considering taking a probiotic supplement and wondering if liquid probiotics are better than pills?
Both pills and liquid probiotics deliver friendly bacteria, and the better option for you depends on your preferences, habits, and health goals.
While pills offer a convenient and taste-free source of probiotics, liquid supplements can distribute beneficial bacteria throughout the entire gastrointestinal tract, including the mouth, which may benefit gum health and strengthen tooth enamel resilience.
FAQ
1. Do liquid probiotics work better?
Liquid probiotics often tend to deliver higher concentrations of beneficial microbes than probiotic pills and typically contain a more diverse selection of probiotic cultures.
2. Are liquid probiotics better than pills?
Liquid probiotics are readily absorbed and help promote microbial diversity throughout the digestive tract, including the mouth. Pill probiotics, on the other hand, release beneficial bacteria into the small intestines, which doesn’t benefit the oral microbiome.
3. What form of probiotics is best?
What form of probiotics is best depends on your preferences, daily habits, and your health goals.
While pills are a convenient source of probiotics, liquid formulations can be an excellent option for individuals with difficulties swallowing pills or capsules.
4. What are the benefits of probiotic liquid?
Liquid probiotics help distribute beneficial microbes throughout the entire digestive system, which can benefit the digestive tract and help promote a healthy oral microbiome.
5. What are the benefits of probiotics in pill form?
Probiotics in pill form have little to no taste, often making them a preferred choice for individuals who dislike the flavor of certain liquid probiotics.
6. Can liquid probiotics be frozen?
Probiotics are live microorganisms sensitive to extreme temperatures, and it’s generally not recommended to freeze liquid probiotics as this may decrease the number of viable bacteria and reduce the supplement’s potency.
