Probiotics or Ultra-Levure? Forget the comparison. Ultra-Levure® is a specific probiotic yeast for treating diarrhea . Other probiotics, on the other hand, are bacteria that restore your gut flora over time. Their effectiveness depends on your specific goals for your body.
Key takeaways:
- Ultra-Levure is a probiotic: it is a very specific strain of probiotic yeast ( Saccharomyces boulardii ).
- Ultra-Levure is a registered trademark of medicines marketed by the Biocodex laboratory.
- Ultra-Levure is the expert in emergencies: its effectiveness is recognized for the treatment of diarrhea, especially during antibiotic treatment.
- Probiotics are the architects of the microbiota: they work over the long term to balance your gut flora and provide general benefits for your body.
- Combining the two is often an excellent strategy: one acts in an emergency, the other rebuilds the ground in depth.
Probiotics and Ultra-Levure: the key differences
Ultra-Levure is a unique, targeted, highly resistant probiotic strain , ideal for use during antibiotic treatment or in cases of diarrhea. It is a short-term medication .
Probiotics offer a diversity of strains , each with specific effects depending on individual needs (digestion, immunity, skin, etc.). They are a dietary supplement that provides long-term benefits.
Is Ultra-Levure a probiotic?
Yes, absolutely. But it's a very special member of that family. Ultra-Levure® is the trade name for the yeast strain (a fungus, not a bacterium) Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 . This nature is what makes it so interesting.
Its unique characteristic is its natural resistance to antibiotic treatment. When a medication targets bacteria, this yeast remains unaffected . Its primary use is recognized as an adjunct treatment for diarrhea , such as in cases of gastroenteritis.
Probiotics: A large family of beneficial bacteria
Probiotics, on the other hand, are most often live bacteria . Taking them aims to enrich and diversify your gut flora . This involves strengthening the ecosystem of your digestive system over the long term.
The goal is to influence the overall balance to promote good digestive health. A diverse gut microbiota contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system and can play a role in alleviating certain disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.
Our expert solution
For this in-depth work, the benefit of a course of treatment lies in the synergy of several strains . Our Intestinal Flora Probiotics formula combines 8 complementary bacterial strains (30 billion CFU) to help restore the balance of the intestinal flora .
Discover Probiotics for Gut FloraNow that you see the fundamental difference between the two, a comparison chart will help you visualize precisely which one to choose and why.
| Criteria | "Classic" probiotics (bacterial strains) | Ultra-Levure ( Saccharomyces boulardii ) |
|---|---|---|
| Nature | A team of various beneficial bacteria ( Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium …). | A unique and specific yeast ( Saccharomyces boulardii ). |
| Main function | Maintaining the balance of the microbiota, supporting good digestion and immune function . | A targeted and rapid action on episodes of acute diarrhea (related to antibiotics, gastro ...). |
| Your goal | Improving daily intestinal comfort, working on the underlying balance. | Act quickly in the event of a one-off disturbance. |
| Duration of intake | A course of treatment lasting several weeks is recommended to observe benefits on the gut flora. | In short treatment of a few days, during the acute episode. |
| Association with antibiotics | Not recommended at the same time: the medication can destroy them. | Recommended: yeast is naturally resistant to it. |
In what situations should one or the other be used?
How to choose simply:
- For in-depth work : Probiotics as a course of treatment are your allies.
- For a digestive emergency: Ultra-Levure is often used as a first line of treatment.
Let's look at this in detail with concrete situations.
Ideal scenarios for a course of probiotics (bacteria)
Looking to improve your overall gut health ? That's where a range of probiotics containing various bacteria comes in. We recommend using them for a long-term approach to supporting the balance of your gut flora .
For adults, the dosage is often simple: one or two capsules per day for several weeks. You can take your probiotics in the morning before breakfast . This is a long-term approach to observe an effect on digestive well-being and help restore a diverse gut microbiome.
Key moments to use Ultra-Levure (yeast)
The most common cause is taking antibiotics . Your doctor may recommend taking this yeast alongside your antibiotic treatment to reduce the risk of diarrhea . Its natural resistance to the medication allows it to work effectively.
Another situation: the dreaded "traveler's diarrhea" or gastroenteritis. Ultra-Levure, often available in easy-to-use sachets , is a classic to have in your travel medicine cabinet. Its dosage is simple to adjust for both adults and children (according to medical advice).
The choice seems clear: one for substance, the other for urgency. But should they really be seen as opposing forces? Perhaps the real question is: can they be combined for maximum benefit?
Can Ultra-Levure and probiotics be taken at the same time?
The answer is a resounding yes.
In our opinion, it's not "one OR the other," but rather "one THEN the other." Far from being contradictory, they complement each other perfectly. This two-step strategy proves to be the most beneficial for your body.
Synergy explained: a team at the service of your gut
The main advantage of combining the two lies in their different timing of action , particularly after taking an antibiotic. The most logical and beneficial approach for your digestive health is as follows:
- Phase 1: Ultra-Levure during treatment. It protects the body's internal environment because its yeast nature makes it resistant to the antibiotic. It occupies space and limits discomfort while the medication works on the infection.
- Step 2: The probiotic treatment after the medication. Once the medication is finished, it's time to rebuild. A good probiotic will repopulate your gut flora to help it regenerate and regain its balance.
An approach validated by science
This strategy is of real interest and is supported by research . The goal is first to mitigate the effects of the drug on the gut, and then to restore the diversity of the gut microbiota. In-depth studies are helping to better understand this beneficial effect.
A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology analyzed the effect of Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745 during and after a course of antibiotics. The researchers noted that its administration helped moderate the imbalances (dysbiosis) caused by the drug and maintain greater microbial diversity.
This is the whole point of this approach: a two-pronged intervention for better gut flora health. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about the differences between Ultra-Levure and probiotics
Are there any known side effects of Ultra-Levure?
Ultra-Levure is generally very well tolerated. In some cases, mild intestinal discomfort or gas may occur at the beginning of use. Consulting a healthcare professional is recommended for individuals who are very frail or immunocompromised.
Should Ultra-Levure be taken before or after meals?
You can take it whenever it suits you best, before, during, or after a meal. The important thing is to swallow it with a large glass of water or mix the contents of the sachet into applesauce, without dissolving it in a liquid that is too hot (over 50°C).
Should Ultra-Levure be taken before, during, or after antibiotics?
The main indication is to take it DURING antibiotic treatment. You can start on the first day of treatment to prevent diarrhea and continue for a few days afterward to help strengthen your gut flora.
Is a prescription required to purchase Ultra-Levure?
No, a prescription is not required. It is a product recommended by pharmacists and doctors, but it is not mandatory to prescribe it and is available over the counter.
Does Ultra-Levure contain lactose?
Yes, the standard formula contains lactose. It's important for those with lactose intolerance to be aware of this. Check the packaging or ask your pharmacist for advice, as lactose-free alternatives may be available in other S. boulardii ranges.
Can the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii be found in everyday food?
That's highly unlikely. It was originally isolated from the peel of exotic fruits like lychee, but it's not a component of our modern diet. To ensure adequate intake, supplements remain the only reliable source.
How long does it take to feel the effects?
For its primary indication, acute diarrhea, the first effects and an improvement in symptoms can be observed within 24 to 48 hours.
Is it a good idea to take Ultra-Levure every day?
This is not generally its intended purpose. Its use is primarily recommended for occasional use. For daily support of the gut flora, it is best to avoid this product and opt for a long-term course of probiotics (bacteria).
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