When it comes to probiotics, most people think of the commensal bacteria vital to health, such as the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains. But there’s another powerhouse probiotic that deserves its place in the spotlight - Saccharomyces cerevesiae (boulardii) or SB for short. Unlike traditional probiotics, SB is a beneficial yeast-based probiotic – not a bacteria. This gives it unique advantages for gut health, immunity, and overall wellbeing – and thanks to not needing refrigeration, it’s convenient to take on the go.
Keep reading to learn why SB could be your new gut, immunity, and travel probiotic.
What is Saccharomyces boulardii and how does it work?
SB is a probiotic yeast originally discovered in tropical fruits like lychee and mangosteen. It has been widely studied for its impressive ability to support digestive health and the mucous lining of the digestive tract, promote healthy gut flora, and maintain a healthy immune system.
How is Saccharomyces boulardii Different from Other Probiotics?
Unlike bacterial probiotics, SB is resistant to stomach acid and antibiotics, making it a dependable gut health supplement no matter what’s happening in the gut microbiome.1 As a beneficial yeast rather than a bacteria, it’s also shelf-stable, making it perfect for travel.
The Immunity-Supporting Effects of SB
The evidence undeniably has demonstrated that a strong immune system starts in the gut– and SB plays a vital role in keeping your body’s defences in top shape. Here’s how:
- Supports immune modulation – SB helps regulate the immune response, reducing inflammation while enhancing the body's ability to fight infections.1
- Protects against harmful pathogens – By promoting a healthy gut mucous barrier, SB helps prevent harmful bacteria and viruses from taking hold.
- Promotes healthy gut flora – A balanced gut microbiome is crucial for immunity, and SB fosters a diverse, resilient gut ecosystem.
Supports Gut Health During Antibiotic Use
Antibiotics can wipe out both bad and good bacteria, leading to digestive discomfort and dysbiosis (gut flora imbalance).
Taking SB alongside or after antibiotic treatment can help:
- Reduce recurrence of diarrhoea.
- Prevent gut flora imbalances that lead to bloating and discomfort.
- Restore good gut bacteria after antibiotic treatment.2
How to Take SB with Antibiotics:
- Take SB two hours apart from antibiotics for best results.
- Continue taking it for at least one week after finishing antibiotics to help restore gut balance.
SB is the Ultimate Travel Companion
Travelling exposes you to new foods, water sources, and bacteria—often leading to digestive issues. SB can help by:
- Reducing the recurrence of symptoms of traveller’s diarrhoea by promoting gut resilience against unfamiliar bacteria
- Exerting an inhibitory effect against harmful pathogens commonly encountered during overseas travel.1
For best results, start taking SB a few days before your trip and continue throughout your travels.
When and How to Take Saccharomyces boulardii
For general gut health and immunity:
- Daily dose: 5-10 billion CFUs (Colony-Forming Units)
- Best time to take: With or without food (remember, SB is resistant to stomach acid so either is fine!)
For antibiotics or travel support:
- Dose: 10-20 billion CFUs per day
- Duration: Start before travel or antibiotic use and continue for a week afterwards
How to Choose a High-Quality Saccharomyces boulardii Supplement
When choosing a supplement, look for:
- Potency - Ensure it contains 100% Saccharomyces boulardii.
- A dose of 5 to 10 billion CFUs per day is ideal for immune and gut support.
- Shelf stability – SB is naturally heat-resistant, but choosing a trusted brand ensures product quality and effectiveness.
- A low-excipient formula that is third-party tested for purity and potency.
For many, Saccharomyces boulardii is a game-changer for gut health, immune support and digestive health. Whether you’re taking antibiotics and want to do more to support your gut microbiome, you’re travelling and want to see the sights, not just the hotel bathroom, or you’re simply looking to bolster your immune system, this powerful probiotic yeast can help you stay healthy.
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This article was written by Sophia Power, Clinical Nutritionist.
References:
- Pais P, et al. Saccharomyces boulardii: What makes it tick as a successful probiotic? J. Fungel (Basel), 2020; 6(2):28.
- Waitzberg D., et al. Can the evidence-based use of probiotics (notably Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) mitigate the clinical effects of antibiotic-associated dysbiosis? Adv Ther, 2024; 41(3):901-914.