A Naturopathic Doctor's Essential Supplement for Gut & Vaginal Health
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Ivy Branin Naturopathic Doctor at Simplicity Health Associates.
Table Of Contents:
Share this blog post!
In my ongoing series about the supplements I take daily, I realized I missed one crucial addition to my routine – a probiotic! Beyond the 12 capsules I previously shared, I also prioritize a high-quality probiotic for both my gut and vaginal health.
Curious about the professional-grade supplements that form part of Dr. Ivy Branin's personal and professional recommendations? Set up your Fullscript account today to browse her convenient protocols and get 10% off your initial order.
My Daily Probiotic
Probiotics are truly essential for maintaining a healthy balance in your gut microbiome, and their benefits extend significantly to vaginal health. A healthy vaginal flora acts as a natural defense against common issues like:
Yeast Infections: By promoting a balanced environment, beneficial bacteria can help prevent the overgrowth of yeast.
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): A healthy vaginal microbiome, rich in specific Lactobacillus strains, can help ward off bacterial imbalances.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Emerging research suggests a link between a healthy vaginal flora and a reduced risk of UTIs.
If you want to learn more about how Gut Health can affect your skin, consider reading this blog post.
My Current Go-To Probiotic
Over the years, I've tried various probiotics, often switching to explore different strains. Currently, I'm really happy with Ora Organic's Ladybugs probiotic. Its formulation is excellent, specifically designed to support vaginal flora.
What sets Ladybugs apart is its comprehensive blend, including:
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus and Lactobacillus Reuteri
These are two well-studied strains frequently included in women's health probiotics due to their ability to adhere to the vaginal lining. They contribute to a healthy vaginal environment by producing lactic acid, which helps maintain an optimal acidic pH, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and yeast. These strains have also shown promise in supporting the natural balance of the vaginal flora and potentially reducing the risk of infections.
Lactobacillus crispatus
This is considered a key "guardian" species in a healthy vaginal microbiome and is often found in lower levels or absent in women experiencing vaginal dysbiosis (imbalance). Lactobacillus crispatus is particularly effective at producing lactic acid, contributing significantly to a low and stable vaginal pH (typically below 4.5). This acidic environment is crucial for preventing the overgrowth of many problematic bacteria, including those associated with bacterial vaginosis and UTIs, as well as yeast. Its presence is often associated with a more resilient and stable vaginal ecosystem.
Prebiotics
Think of prebiotics as specialized food for the beneficial bacteria, including the Lactobacillus strains in this formula. These non-digestible fibers pass through the digestive system and reach the colon, where they selectively nourish and stimulate the growth and activity of the good bacteria already present, as well as those introduced through the probiotic supplement. By providing this nourishment, prebiotics help the probiotic bacteria thrive, colonize the gut and potentially influence the vaginal microbiome, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the probiotic.
Timing is Key
I typically take my Ora Organic Ladybugs probiotic about an hour after breakfast. Ideally, probiotics are best taken away from food and caffeine, which is why I wait a bit after my morning coffee. This timing helps ensure the beneficial bacteria have a better chance of surviving the stomach acid and reaching the intestines and vaginal tract. This particular probiotic is a two-a-day formula, bringing my daily capsule count to a grand total of 14 – all in the pursuit of optimal health!
Interested in learning more? Click here to see Dr. Ivy Branin's Full Daily Supplement Routine.
Why I Trust Professional-Grade Supplements
Just like all the other supplements in my morning and bedtime routine, I source my probiotics from Fullscript. This ensures I'm getting a high-quality product that I can trust. You don't have to worry about fillers or inconsistent potency when you choose professional-grade supplements.
If you want to learn more about the importance of high quality supplements, consider reading this blog post.
Support Your Gut and Vaginal Health
If you're looking to prioritize your gut and vaginal health, a targeted probiotic like Ora Organic Ladybugs can be a valuable addition to your routine. However, navigating the complexities of gut and vaginal health can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you're seeking a holistic and individualized approach to support your gut and vaginal health journey, I encourage you to book a consultation with either myself or Dr. Pauline Hoang. We can work together to create a comprehensive plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you achieve optimal balance and vitality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are gut health and vaginal health connected?
The gut and vagina are interconnected through various pathways in the body, including the immune system and the migration of bacteria. A healthy gut microbiome can contribute to a balanced vaginal flora, and vice versa. Supporting one often benefits the other.
What makes Ora Organic Ladybugs probiotic specifically good for vaginal health?
Ora Organic Ladybugs is formulated with specific Lactobacillus strains, including rhamnosus, reuteri, and importantly, crispatus. Lactobacillus crispatus is a key species for maintaining a healthy vaginal pH, which helps prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and yeast. The inclusion of prebiotics also helps nourish these beneficial bacteria.
Should I takeOra Organic Ladybugs probiotic with or without food?
Generally, it's recommended to take most probiotics after food and caffeine for optimal absorption and survival of the bacteria. Dr. Branin mentions taking it about an hour after breakfast. Follow the product instructions for the best results.
Can men take Ora Organic Ladybugs probiotic?
While Ora Organic Ladybugs is specifically formulated for women's vaginal health, men can still benefit from probiotics for gut health. There are many probiotic formulations available that are suitable for men.
How long will it take to notice a difference after starting a probiotic?
Results can vary depending on individual factors and the specific issues being addressed. Some individuals may notice improvements in digestive comfort or a reduction in symptoms relatively quickly, while others may take longer to experience significant changes. Consistency is key.
Can a Naturopathic Doctor help with gut and vaginal health issues?
Yes! Naturopathic Doctors take a holistic approach to health and can help identify the root causes of gut and vaginal imbalances. They can create personalized treatment plans that may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, stress management, and targeted supplementation, including the appropriate probiotics for your individual needs.
Book an Appointment
If you're concerned about remaining healthy, or may suspect that there is an underlying health concern, our team at Simplicity Health Associates are dedicated to helping you navigate this journey through personalized, holistic treatment plans.
About Dr. Ivy Branin
Dr Ivy Branin is a Naturopathic Doctor in NYC who received her degree in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biochemical engineering and a minor in French from Rutgers University. After graduating from Rutgers, she worked for 3 years as a process validation engineer in the pharmaceutical industry in New York and Connecticut.
As a naturopathic doctor in NYC, Dr Branin does not approach disease with a “one-size fits all” perspective but rather sees each patient as an individual with their own potential for optimal health. She supports people in their desire to feel good and good about themselves using the naturopathic principles of dietary and lifestyle management, homeopathy, visceral manipulation, botanical medicine, and craniosacral therapy.