By Lygon Everyday Chemist, Brunswick East

Bacteria vs Yeast Probiotics: Which Is Better for Gut Health?

Maintaining a healthy gut is one of the most common questions our pharmacists at Lygon Everyday Chemist in Brunswick East hear daily. 

Probiotics are widely recommended, but not all probiotics are the same. Some are bacteria-based (like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium), while others are yeast-based (like Saccharomyces boulardii). So, which should you choose?

What Are Bacteria-Based Probiotics?

• Examples: Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium

Best for:

• Everyday gut health maintenance

• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) support

• Restoring balance after antibiotics

• Preventing

What Are Yeast-Based Probiotics?

• Example: Saccharomyces boulardii.

How they work: This beneficial yeast survives stomach acid and antibiotics, helping to fight harmful microbes and rebalance the gut quickly.

Best for:

• Antibiotic-associated diarrhoea

• Recurrent gut infections

• Short-term digestive upsets

• Supporting immune response

Unlike bacteria-based probiotics, yeast probiotics don’t colonise the gut long-term. They work while you’re taking them but usually don’t stay once you stop.

Which Probiotic Should You Take?

• For general gut health and daily balance > go with a multi-strain bacteria-based probiotic.

• For antibiotic support, traveller’s tummy, or sudden diarrhoea > add in a yeast-based probiotic.

• Some people use both together for complete coverage.

Pharmacy Tip for Brunswick East Locals

At Lygon Everyday Chemist, we often recommend a daily bacteria-based probiotic for maintaining gut health, and keeping a yeast probiotic on hand for those times you’re on antibiotics or travelling.

Our pharmacists can guide you to the right product, whether you need long-term gut support, or short-term relief during illness or travel.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you take yeast and bacteria probiotics together?

Yes! They can complement each other, and in some cases, taking both gives broader protection.

2. Do probiotics really survive stomach acid?

Quality probiotics are designed to survive stomach acid and reach the gut where they’re needed.

3. Do I need to take probiotics every day?

For long-term balance, yes. For yeast probiotics, daily use is only needed during antibiotics, travel, or acute gut upset.

4. Are probiotics safe for everyone?

Generally, yes. But people with weakened immune systems should check with a doctor or pharmacist first.

Where to Get Probiotics in Brunswick East

Looking for the right probiotic? Visit us at Lygon Everyday Chemist, 473 - 475 Lygon Street, Brunswick East. 

Our pharmacists can help you choose between bacteria-based probiotics for daily support or yeast probiotics for targeted gut protection.