What are probiotics and prebiotics?
Probiotics, also known as good or friendly bacteria, are live microorganisms that are very similar to beneficial microorganisms found in the human gut. Probiotics can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.* Prebiotics are nondigestible nutrients that stimulate the growth and/or activity of good bacteria in the digestive system. Prebiotics are typically dietary fibers.*
What is the importance of the amount of CFUs a probiotic supplement contains? What make’s Mannatech’s GI-ProBalance slimsticks special?
The potency of probiotics is measured in colony forming units (CFU). CFUs are determined by allowing the organism to grow under controlled conditions, and then counting the number of colonies present. Not all the bacteria (live organism) will remain viable when they arrive at their intended destination in the gut and that is why GI-ProBalance was specifically formulated to begin with 50 Billion CFU and to end at 8.5 Billion at time of expiration. Often other probiotic supplements may not list the guaranteed potency at expiration meaning all strains could be dead by the time they are consumed.
What are the different probiotic strains and their CFU amounts that are included in the MannaBiotic™ Blend?
The MannaBiotic Blend includes the following 8 strains of probiotics and prebiotic fibers:
| Probiotic Strains | (Input at time of manufacturing CFU/stick) |
| Lactobacillus plantarum | 27,120,000,000 |
| Bifidobacterium lactis | 18,695,000,000 |
| Streptococcus thermophilus | 2,500,000,000 |
| Lactobacillus acidophilus | 750,000,000 |
| Bifidobacterium longum | 625,000,000 |
| Lactobacillus casei | 125,000,000 |
| Bifidobacterium breve | 125,000,000 |
| Lactobacillus rhamnosus | 60,000,000 |
| Total | 50,000,000,000 |
How are GI-ProBalance slimsticks different from GI-Zyme® capsules?
Mannatech's GI-ProBalance slimsticks are a probiotic and prebiotic supplement formulated to contribute to a balance of natural healthy gut flora, which in turn supports healthy digestion and natural immune function.* Mannatech's GI-Zyme capsules contain a variety of enzymes that help to break down fats, proteins and carbohydrates more efficiently so they can be more easily digested.*
How does GI-ProBalance powder enhance the benefits of Ambrotose® products?
In vitro research suggests there may be an additive effect when GI-ProBalance powder is combined with Ambrotose powders.* The arabinogalactan in the Ambrotose products may be broken down and utilized by specific bacteria present in GI-ProBalance powder.* At the same time, arabinogalactan is a prebiotic that has been shown to support the growth and proliferation of specific bacteria found in our GI-ProBalance product.* The expected result is enhanced support from both products.*
Why do GI-ProBalance slimsticks contain soy?
While soy is not an ingredient in the product, it was a part of the source medium in which the bacteria strains are grown; therefore, the product may contain trace amounts of soy.
Does GI-ProBalance need to be refrigerated?
GI-ProBalance is shelf stable and does not require refrigeration. However, we do recommend storing it in a cool, dry place.
