Frequently Asked Questions

 
  1. How is VSL#3 different from other probiotic products?
  2. How does VSL#3 work?
  3. Do I need a prescription to buy VSL#3?
  4. How do I take VSL#3?
  5. How much VSL#3 should I take?
  6. What is the best time of day to take VSL#3?
  7. How long does VSL#3 take to become established in the gut?
  8. How long can I take VSL#3?
  9. Does VSL#3 contain gluten?
  10. Are there any foods I should avoid while taking VSL#3?
  11. Can I take VSL#3 if I have intolerance to dairy products?
  12. Can I take VSL#3 while on antibiotics?
  13. What happens if VSL#3 is left at room temperature?
  14. Can I carry VSL#3 in my pocket?
  15. Is it better to freeze VSL#3?
  16. What if I experience bloating when I start taking VSL#3?
  17.  Is VSL#3 Kosher and Halal?

 

1.

How is VSL#3 different from other probiotic products?

VSL#3® is different from other probiotic products because it has the highest available concentration of beneficial bacteria (450 billion per sachet). Most other probiotic preparations only have 1 to 10 billion bacteria. VSL#3® is a blend of 8 different bacteria, whereas most other probiotics use a single strain of bacteria.

2.

How does VSL#3 work?

The unique blend of beneficial bacteria in VSL#3® works by colonising the gastrointestinal tract with ‘good’ bacteria, helping sustain a favourable balance of bacteria in the gut. Maintaining a favourable balance of beneficial bacteria helps keep the ‘bad’ bacteria at bay.

 

3.

Do I need a prescription to buy VSL#3?

No prescription is needed; it is classed as a food supplement.

 

4.

How do I take VSL#3?

VSL#3® should be taken in cold water or in any cold food or drink (non-fizzy).

 

5.

How much VSL#3 should I take?

The recommended daily intake for VSL#3® is 1-2 sachets a day.

 

6.

What is the best time of day to take VSL#3?

VSL#3® can be taken at any time during the day – according to your preference.

 

7.

How long does VSL#3 take to become established in the gut?

In general, VSL#3® takes up to 1 week to become established in the gut. A study conducted with VSL#3® confirms that maximum bacterial colonization of the gut occurs within 20 days. This high level of colonization remains stable throughout treatment. After daily intake is interrupted, the strains in VSL#3® will survive in the gut for up to 3 weeks.

 

8.

How long can I take VSL#3?

VSL#3® can be taken every day for as long as you may wish to continue.

 

9.

Does VSL#3 contain gluten?

VSL#3 may contain traces of gluten.

 

10.

Are there any foods I should avoid while taking VSL#3?

No, VSL#3® is generally compatible with any foods you ordinarily eat.

VSL#3® should be taken in cold water or in any cold food or drink (non-fizzy).

 

11.

Can I take VSL#3 if I have intolerance to dairy products

Some dairy ingredients are used in the culture medium but are removed during fermentation and concentration. There might be trace amounts at very low levels and, for this reason. VSL#3® is not defined as a dairy-free product but as a non-dairy product. If you are lactose intolerant, you may wish to start with a very low intake of VSL#3® to see how you respond before increasing the amount.

 

12.

Can I take VSL#3 while on antibiotics?

VSL#3® is believed to be compatible with all types of drugs. If you take it with antibiotics, it will not harm you but the effects of VSL#3® will be reduced since the antibiotics can inactivate the beneficial bacteria in VSL#3®.

 

13.

What happens if VSL#3 is left at room temperature?

It will be fine for about 1 week as long as it is not heated above room temperature (25°C). If it is left at room temperature for long periods of time or exposed to excessive heat for even a short time, the beneficial bacteria in VSL#3® can become greatly reduced.

 

14.

Can I carry VSL#3 in my pocket?

No, it should not be heated above room temperature at any time. An outer garment pocket such as an overcoat pocket may be acceptable if it is not too warm and the packets are not kept in it for too long.

 

15.

Is it better to freeze VSL#3?

No, refrigeration at 2 - 8oC is best.

 

16.

What if I experience bloating when I start taking VSL#3?

Bloating can occur during the first few days after starting to use VSL#3®. This is usually a temporary phenomenon due to the changing intestinal microflora. If you experience bloating, you may need to reduce your daily intake to allow this adjustment.

 

17.

Is VSL#3 Kosher and Halal?

Yes, VSL#3® is both Kosher and Halal.

 

 
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