GLOSSARY

Probiotic Species and Strains Table

Probiotic strain identifiers are essential; evidence cannot be generalized from the genus name.

Probiotic Strain identifies a strain within species, important for matching products with evidence beyond the genus name.

For example, record a new product's exact identity, portion and timing and assess response in training; adding several products together makes benefit or discomfort harder to attribute.

Probiotics require live microorganisms, an appropriate amount and demonstrated health benefit for the intended use. Not every fermented food or live bacterium meets that definition. Identify genus, species and strain and match the studied outcome to the goal. Evidence for one digestive or immune application does not guarantee greater strength or endurance in every athlete, nor does it make all products bearing the word equivalent.

Strain, dose, duration and study population are central to probiotic evidence. More strains or a larger colony count is not automatically better; mixtures need their own support. Temporary stool detection differs from lasting establishment or proven benefit. If used, define the goal and response beforehand. Starting immediately before competition leaves little opportunity to assess tolerance and does not reproduce a trial simply by matching a species name.