What is Flotera?
Before considering Flotera or any supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure it is appropriate for your specific needs and health condition.
Flotera is an over-the-counter food supplement that contains the probiotic strain Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide a health benefit to the host by helping to balance the gut's microflora. The specific strain in Flotera, L. reuteri DSM 17938, is a well-researched bacterium known to colonize the gastrointestinal tract and aid in various digestive processes. As a supplement, Flotera is available in several formats to suit different age groups and preferences, including oral drops, chewable tablets, and powder. It's not a prescription drug but is widely recommended by pediatricians and healthcare providers for its documented benefits.
The Role of Probiotics
The human digestive system hosts trillions of bacteria, collectively known as the gut microbiota. A healthy balance of this microbiota is crucial for proper digestion, immune function, and protection against pathogenic bacteria. Factors like antibiotic use, illness, stress, and poor diet can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to digestive issues. Probiotics like Flotera are designed to help restore and maintain this healthy gut ecology by introducing live, beneficial bacteria directly into the system.
How Flotera Works
The active ingredient in Flotera, L. reuteri DSM 17938, is particularly effective because it is a resilient probiotic. The bacteria can survive the harsh environment of the stomach, including gastric acid and bile salts, allowing it to successfully reach and colonize the intestines. Once in the gut, the L. reuteri works by several mechanisms:
- Enhancing Intestinal Ecology: It helps to establish a healthy balance of bacteria by outcompeting harmful pathogens for nutrients and binding sites on the intestinal walls.
- Producing Antimicrobial Substances: It produces reuterin, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound that inhibits the growth of common pathogenic microorganisms.
- Improving the Gut Barrier: It strengthens the intestinal barrier by promoting the production of protective mucus and improving the integrity of epithelial cells.
- Modulating Immune Response: It interacts with the gut's immune cells, helping to reduce inflammation and support the overall immune balance.
Primary Uses of Flotera
Flotera's main applications are centered around promoting digestive health and resolving common gastrointestinal issues. While it is often associated with pediatric use, its benefits extend to adults as well.
- Managing Infant Colic: Numerous clinical studies and meta-analyses have shown that L. reuteri DSM 17938 can significantly reduce crying time in colicky babies. This effect can be observed within a few weeks of daily administration.
- Improving Digestion: Flotera improves digestive processes, helping to alleviate symptoms of bloating, abdominal cramping, and other forms of stomach discomfort.
- Treating Diarrhea: It helps to restore the natural balance of gut bacteria, which can shorten the duration and severity of acute infectious diarrhea.
- Enhancing Resistance to Infections: By fostering a robust intestinal flora, Flotera helps to bolster the body's natural defenses against intestinal infections.
Forms of Flotera
Flotera is available in different formulations to accommodate various age groups. The number of live bacteria (colony-forming units or CFU) provided can vary by product and recommended use.
- Flotera Drops: Recommended for newborns and infants, especially for colic. The drops can be administered directly on a spoon, added to breastmilk, formula, or water.
- Flotera Chewable Tablets: Recommended for children aged 4 years and up, and adults. Often strawberry-flavored.
- Flotera Powder: Available in minipacks and can be mixed with food or drinks, particularly useful for children and adults who prefer not to swallow tablets.
Note: It is crucial not to mix Flotera with hot food or drinks, as high temperatures can kill the live bacteria and reduce its efficacy.
Comparison with Other Probiotics
While many probiotics are available, the specific strain and its intended use can differ. The following table provides a brief comparison of Flotera with two other common probiotic strains.
| Feature | Flotera (L. reuteri DSM 17938) | Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG | Saccharomyces boulardii |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Infant colic, general digestion, diarrhea | Infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea | Diarrhea, including antibiotic-associated and traveler's diarrhea |
| Mechanism | Colonizes intestines, produces reuterin, strengthens gut barrier | Produces lactic acid, promotes healthy gut environment | A yeast probiotic, not a bacterium; reduces pathogen binding |
| Target Population | Infants, children, and adults | Children and adults | Children and adults |
| Formulations | Drops, chewable tablets, powder | Capsules, chewable tablets, powder packets | Capsules, powder packets |
Safety Profile and Precautions
Flotera is generally considered safe for the majority of the population when taken as directed. The most common side effects are mild and transient, including temporary increases in gas, bloating, or abdominal discomfort, which typically subside as the body adjusts to the supplement. Serious allergic reactions are rare but require immediate medical attention.
It is important to discuss the use of Flotera with a healthcare provider, especially if you have a compromised immune system, damaged intestines, or are taking other medications, particularly antibiotics. If using antibiotics, discuss the appropriate timing for administering Flotera with your healthcare provider to maximize the probiotic's effect. For infants and young children, a doctor or pediatrician's recommendation is always best.
Conclusion
Flotera, with its active ingredient Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, is a well-established probiotic supplement used to support and restore digestive health. Its applications are varied, from effectively managing infant colic to improving general digestion and bolstering the body's resistance to intestinal infections in both children and adults. Available in drops, chewable tablets, and powder, Flotera offers a versatile option for promoting a balanced gut microbiome. As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended to ensure safe and appropriate use for your specific health needs.
Note: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before starting a new supplement regimen. More information on the effectiveness of L. reuteri can be found in a detailed review from the National Institutes of Health.
