OptiBac Probiotics has created its new friendly bacteria supplement For Pregnancy to help mothers give their babies ‘a strong and healthy microbiome blueprint for the future’ as well as reducing some pregnancy symptoms such as constipation, gas and bloating.
Describing the product as the UK’s most researched probiotic for pregnancy, the brand says For Pregnancy contains some of the most scientifically researched strains of friendly bacteria with FOS fibres.
The strains, which have been specifically chosen to address some key concerns of expectant mums, include Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 which has been shown to support mothers at risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy, as well as demonstrating improved postnatal depression and anxiety scores, and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 to support gut health and improve constipation, gas and other digestive issues. Both of these strains can also support immunity in both mother and baby.
Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14 is also included to support intimate health and help reduce recurrence rates and symptoms of bacterial vaginosis.
“A woman’s body goes through so many natural changes during pregnancy ranging from immunological, hormonal, metabolic and microbial, with each change influencing the other,” explains Dr Kate Stephens, gut microbiologist at OptiBac Probiotics. “We see some significant changes to the gut, vaginal and oral microbiome, which can all impact mums and baby’s health during gestation and post-birth. Common pregnancy health concerns such as constipation, low-energy and even vaginal issues such as bacterial vaginosis, can be linked to all these changes. So, probiotics have a lot of potential to tip the balance back to a more positive state and support overall health.”
The easy-to-take supplement is suitable for pregnant women from conception, through to birth and for six-months post birth in both breast-feeding and formula feeding mothers. It is also safe to take with folic acid, vitamin D and other supplements often taken during pregnancy.
