Ortho Biotic is a unique probiotic formula designed to deliver active organisms shown to promote healthy gut microflora, protect intestinal integrity and boost immune function. Included in this formula is Saccharomyces boulardii, an extensively researched microorganism shown to help restore microflora balance by enhancing commensal organism function. Each Ortho Biotic capsule provides seven proven probiotic strains chosen for their ability to withstand the harsh gastrointestinal (GI) environment and adhere to the intestinal tract to deliver superior results. Overview The GI tract is a finely balanced environment where roughly 500 different strains of bacteria compete for space and nutrients. When there is a healthy balance (eubiosis), few symptoms exist. However, dysbiosis can occur when an overabundance of potentially harmful organisms prevail. The natural microflora balance can be upset by medications (such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives, etc.), excessive alcohol consumption, or poor dietary intake. Probiotics have been extensively studied and are characterized as having broad GI and immune benefits, including (1) increasing the population of healthy bacteria following microflora imbalance; (2) supporting healthy bowel function; (3) increasing the production of short-chain fatty acids, which provide energy to the cells of the intestinal lining; (4) strengthening the gut-immune barrier by promoting a healthy gut mucosa; (5) aiding in the digestion of difficult-to break down compounds like lactose and casein; and (6) enhancing detoxification of harmful compounds.