The Journey Back From IBS With VSL#3

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If you have suffered from Irritable BoweI Syndrome (IBS), then you know how frustrating it can be. I have had instances of it over the years, particularly in connection with my running, which seems to aggravate the symptoms. So, I was excited to get to participate in the “VSL#3 The Journey Back campaign in which I will be trying  VSL#3, a high-potency probiotic medical food. I will be reporting back next month on how my trial went.

IBS Probiotics

About IBS

If you are not familiar with it, IBS is a serious GI issue that affects the large intestine (colon).  It normally causes cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation.  More women than men are diagnosed with it. There is no cure or known cause for it, and it can result in the disruption of social and family activities. In my case, it has affected my running at times because of the need to take unexpected “pit stops.” However, there are some things that can be done to address IBS, such as making dietary changes and use of probiotics such as VSL#3.  But make sure that you get the best product, as not all probiotics are the same. According to a Harris Poll* conducted on behalf of VSL#3, among 607 U.S. adults ages 18+ who have been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis (UC) or ileal pouch, nearly half (46%) believe all probiotics are pretty much the same. Further, roughly 2 in 5 IBS, UC, ileal pouch sufferers (41%) don’t understand which strain of probiotics is best to help treat their symptoms. Also, nearly half  (49%) are not at all knowledgeable about the differences between a “medical food” and a “dietary supplement.”*

*Harris Poll conducted the GI Issues Survey on behalf of VSL#3. The survey was administered online within the United States between April 1 – 7, 2015 among 607 adult’s ages 18+ who have been diagnosed with a digestive or gastrointestinal condition, irritable bowel syndrome, or ulcerative colitis, ileal pouch (“sufferers”).

VSL#3

About VSL#3

VSL#3 is a high-potency probiotic medical food that is clinically proven in the dietary management of the serious digestive issues irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis (UC) and ileal pouch. It has been clinically demonstrated to reduce bloating, gassiness and discomfort in patients with IBS. It also has been the subject of more than 170 studies and published in peer-reviewed journals over the past 15 years. VSL#3 is specially formulated with eight strains of live lactic acid bacteria and is 10 times more potent more than the average probiotic.  Thus, it is the first choice for many doctors because it is one of the strongest available with a proven track record in helping patients with serious digestive conditions. The products are Kosher and Halal certified. It is suggested that adults should take at least one billion cells daily. VSL#3 meets this suggestion.

VSL#3  comes in capsules or packets. I chose the packets, which I can mix into my morning smoothies. VSL#3 products include packets containing 450 billion bacteria and capsules containing 112.5 billion bacteria.  Also available is VSL#3 DS Double Strength (DS) packets containing 900 billion live bacteria. Due to the potency of this formulation, VSL#3 DS is a prescription only medical food. The products must be refrigerated to maintain potency.  You can find it at your local pharmacy, just ask your pharmacist for VSL#3 because it is kept refrigerated behind the pharmacy counter.

VSL#3 Packets

VSL#3 Patient Savings Program

VSL#3 also has a savings program.  Ask your healthcare professional for a VSL#3 Patient Savings card and save up to $80 each month on your purchase of VSL#3 products. Visit here for more information and talk with your healthcare provider today so you can take part in the savings program!

Look for my report on using VSL#3 next month!

For more information on VSL#3 please visit www.vsl3.com
Join VSL#3 on Facebook for giveaways and exclusive offers www.facebook.com/vsl3probiotic
Check out a series of videos including helpful information about managing IBS at www.youtube.com/user/VSL3Probiotic
Find delicious IBS-friendly recipes at http://www.vsl3.com/discover/ibs-friendly-recipes/

#VSL3TheJourneyBack

VSL#3® is a high-potency probiotic medical food that’s clinically proven in the dietary management of IBS, ulcerative colitis, and ileal pouch. To learn more visit www.vsl3.com and LIKE the brand on Facebook. 

This is a product-provided, sponsored conversation that contains affiliate links. All opinions, text and experiences are my own. VSL#3 is a high-potency probiotic medical food for the dietary management of IBS, UC and ileal pouch and must be used under medical supervision. Please speak with your healthcare provider for any specific questions. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

One Comment

  1. I have diverticulitis and IBS, and the nutritionist suggested VSL#3 probiotics instead of my regular Align probiotics on alternate weeks because it has different bacteria. TVSL#3 is definitely expensive so I’ll look into the savings program.

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