How does Culturelle� differ from other probiotics such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or yogurt?

Lactobacillus GG, the bacterial strain in Culturelle�, is the most extensively studied and clinically proven probiotic strain available. There have been more than 100 clinical trials conducted on Lactobacillus GG. Lactobacillus GG survives stomach acid and bile, colonizes and grows in the intestines and imparts health benefits. In many gastrointestinal conditions, the efficacy of Lactobacillus GG is thought to be due to the superior survivability, which many other probiotic strains lack.

Furthermore, Culturelle� guarantees that there are at least 10 billion colony-forming units (cfus) per capsule throughout the shelf life when stored as recommended (at or below room temperature).

Is Lactobacillus GG different than L. acidophilus?

Yes, Lactobacillus GG is different than L. acidophilus. The probiotic bacterial strain in Culturelle� is Lactobacillus GG (Lactobacillus casei, subspecies rhamnosus GG, ATCC strain 53103). Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is a specific strain of the species, Lactobacillus rhamnosus. Lactobacillus acidophilus is another species group that is made up of a number of different strains, as is the case for Lactobacillus casei. It is important to note that all of the different strains in the Lactobacillus genus have different properties. Not all Lactobacillus strains are able to adequately survive the stomach acid or to attach and colonize in the gut. Different probiotic strains can confer different health benefits. Thus, it is important to examine the clinical studies that have been done to support each of the different products that you may consider taking.

What does GG stand for?

GG stands for Gorbach and Goldin, the names of the two doctors who discovered the strain. Drs. Gorbach and Goldin are at Tufts University in Boston, MA.

What is the bacterial strain in Culturelle�?

Lactobacillus GG (specifically Lactobacillus casei, subspecies rhamnosus GG). The ATCC strain number 53103.

What is the origin of Lactobacillus GG?

Lactobacillus GG is a human strain.

What is a probiotic?

The term "Probiotic" was promoted by R. Fuller. In Probiotics: The Scientific Basis. London: Chapman and Hall, 1992. He defined Probiotics as a bacterial strain that does the following:

• survive the stomach acid and bile
• adhere to the intestinal lining
• grow and establish temporary residence in the intestines
• impart health benefits

Has Lactobacillus GG been clinically studied?

Lactobacillus GG currently has the distinction of being the most extensively studied probiotic bacterial strain in the world. More than 150 clinical studies have been conducted since 1985. Please visit www.live-well.com to obtain the Lactobacillus GG bibliography.

Does Culturelle� contain multiple strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacteria?

No, Culturelle� contains only Lactobacillus GG, a single probiotic strain.

Does Culturelle� contain dairy?

The Lactobacillus GG strain in Culturelle� is grown on a whey-based media. In the cheese-making process, casein is the milk protein that precipitates to form the cheese curds (hence the phrase, "curds and whey"). After the Lactobacillus GG is grown on the whey-based media, the bacterial cells are washed and freeze-dried. To test for the presence of dairy proteins (casein and whey), Culturelle� has been submitted to FARRP, an internationally known food allergy research program for an enzyme-linked immuno sorbent assay (ELISA). The casein and whey content of Culturelle� is each less than 15 ppm. Some people can be allergic to these levels of protein.

Does Culturelle� contain wheat or wheat derivatives?

No.

Does Culturelle� contain gluten?

No. Culturelle� does not contain or come into contact with gluten-containing grains or ingredients derived from barley, rye, oats or wheat.

Does Culturelle� contain any genetically modified (GMO) ingredients?

No.

Is Lactobacillus GG genetically engineered?

No, Lactobacillus GG is a natural bacterial strain, which was isolated from a healthy human.

How many capsules are in each box of Culturelle�?

There are 30 capsules in each box. The capsules are individually packaged in foil blisters. Each blister is flushed with a dry inert gas to keep the moisture in the air away from the capsules.

What is the recommended way to store Culturelle�?

Culturelle� should be stored in a cool, dry place at or below 72-75 �F. Although Culturelle� does not require refrigeration, it is even more stable when stored under refrigeration. Sealed in a foil pack, it is ideal for the traveler.

Is it okay to store Culturelle� in the refrigerator or freezer?

Yes, it is okay to store Culturelle� in the refrigerator or freezer. Culturelle� is even more stable under cold storage as compared to when it is stored at room temperature.

What time of day should I take Culturelle�?

Culturelle� can be taken at any time of day.

Is it okay to take Culturelle� on an empty stomach?

Lactobacillus GG colonizes best when taken with food, but it is okay to take on an empty stomach.

Can the capsule be opened and taken with food?

Yes, you can mix the capsule contents with a cool food or beverage (such as applesauce, pudding or juice). Do not mix the Culturelle� capsule contents with hot foods or beverages, such as coffee. If the entire dose is not consumed in one sitting, then the remainder should not be saved for the next dose.

What are the side effects of taking Culturelle�?

There are generally no side effects. In the clinical studies, about 2% of the participants reported feeling some bloating and gas for a few days. This side effect is normal and should subside as your intestinal tract adjusts to the good bacteria.

What is the recommended serving size of Culturelle� for young children?

For children who weigh less than 25 pounds, the recommended dosage is one capsule per day. For children who weigh more than 25 pounds, the recommended serving size is one capsule twice daily.

Will Culturelle� help with lactose intolerance?

Lactobacillus GG does not ferment (break down) lactose, so it will not help with lactose intolerance.

Will Culturelle� help with milk allergies?

Some clinical studies have shown that taking Culturelle helps alleviate problems associated with milk allergies.