I’ll admit, whenever I hear about a supplement that’s the latest and greatest, I’m always pretty skeptical—albeit intrigued. Are they legit? A scam? Actually helpful? And I felt this way for a long time about what I’m about to suggest for this week’s challenge.

Challenge: Take a probiotic daily

If you’re rolling your eyes at yet another “health supplement,” keep reading!

For those who don’t know, probiotics are live bacteria and yeast that are excellent for your overall health. They are what keeps your tummy functioning at its prime! And for those times when you’re traveling, stressed out, sick, or on an antibiotic, some of your gut’s good bacteria gets killed, naturally. Probiotics can balance out the lack of healthy bacteria and in turn restore it. I committed to taking one daily a few months ago, and I can honestly say I feel much better and my digestive system is regular (TMI??).

Though probiotics are best known for their work on digestion and stomach issues like cramping and IBS, some strands have been also linked to:

• Preventing and treating yeast infections
• Strong immune systems (treating and preventing colds and flus)
• Cancer-fighting properties
• Anti-aging and benefits for your skin

You can get good bacteria from fermented foods, like yogurt, kefir, pickles, and kimchi as long as the label says raw, lacto-fermented, or unpasteurized—which means the good bacteria hasn’t been killed.

But if you aren’t a huge fan of those foods or don’t get enough, a probiotic supplement is a great option in my opinion. You can choose from capsules, powders, or liquids (my personal favorite). There are a TON of probiotics on the market, but after some research, it seems like strands with 20 billion live organisms per dosage and that have Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium on the label are the best option. Some of the brands I’ve liked: cocobiotic and Bio-K (I buy it from Whole Foods – it’s in the fridge section where the vitamins and supplements are).

Obviously these types of suggestions should be ran by your doctor before trying, but my doc had no problem with me taking one daily. I highly suggest consulting yours soon & getting on the healthy gut train!

Sources: Women’s Health