We all know by now that we need to look after our gut bacteria, making sure we balance both the good and the bad, but it can be easy to put it to the back of our mind until our gut bacteria is in a sorry state and we feel unwell.

There are so many aspects of our wellbeing that can be linked to the health of our gut, from mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, to skin conditions such as acne and eczema – it’s not just our digestive health that can be affected. That’s why, as well as eating a healthy, balanced diet, daily probiotic supplements are often recommended to us. With so many different products on the market, it can be difficult to know which to choose, but I’ve been testing one which I think ticks a lot of boxes.

Udos Choice Super 8’s Microbiotics have one of the highest number of bacteria in each capsule in the UK (42 billion), and contain eight different strains of bacteria. This is a really good thing to look for in a probiotic supplement, because each different strain of bacteria has a slightly different function, and they can work together to really improve our gut health.

The eight different strains of bacteria found in Super 8 are:

• Lactobacillus acidophilus (HA-122) : 45%
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HA-111) : 25%
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus (HA-114) : 10%
• Lactobacillus plantarum (HA-119) : 7%
• Bifidobacterium bifidum (HA-132) : 6%
• Lactobacillus casei (HA-108) : 3%
• Bifidobacterium longum (HA-135) : 3%
• Lactobacillus salivarius (HA-118) : 1%

Each has a different function, from supporting nutrient absorption and helping with digestion, to helping to prevent an upset tummy when we go on holiday, and together they are a real powerhouse.

Another important thing to consider is whether the bacteria is actually alive when it reaches your stomach. Udo’s Choice Super 8 guarantee 31 billion cells at the time of expiry (so check the best-before date on your pot) and they have to be stored in the fridge in order to ensure maximum potency and stability, although they can be taken out for short periods of time, making them convenient for travel.

These microbiotics are living organisms, and so need to be protected from too much exposure to light, heat and moisture. The thick, opaque glass packaging these Super 8’s come in ensure the protection of what’s inside, so you can be safe in the knowledge that you are getting a good quality probiotic.

The capsules inside are vegetarian and gluten free, they do not have a foul smell or taste, and one is advised to be taken daily on a full stomach for 30 days at a time. This process can be repeated 3-4 times per year, or as directed by a healthcare professional. I got myself in the habit of taking a capsule every day after my lunch.

Overall, after taking my first 30-days worth I feel good – and safe in the knowledge that this is a product that I can trust, and that it is of the best quality it can be. As someone who does occasionally suffer with digestive complaints, I often forget to look after my gut health until it’s too late, so I will be making an effort to remember to take these probiotics regularly.

A 30 capsule bottle can be purchased for £25.99 at your local health food store or online at www.udoschoice.co.uk.