Probiotics have become an increasingly popular supplement for supporting digestive and immune health. Align is one of the most well-known probiotic brands, offering several different formulations.
Two of their key products are Align Probiotic Pro Formula and Align Regular probiotic. But what exactly is the difference between these two probiotics? This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth comparison of Align Probiotic Pro Formula vs Regular.
We’ll overview the key features of each probiotic, outline the main differences, pros and cons of each formula, and answer some frequently asked questions. Read on to learn which Align probiotic may be better suited for your individual needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Align Probiotic Pro Formula | Align Regular |
| Probiotic Strain | Bifidobacterium 35624TM | Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 |
| CFU Count | 100 billion per capsule | 1 billion per capsule |
| Forms Available | Powder packets or capsules | Capsules only |
| Intended Use | Occasional digestive upset | Daily digestive maintenance |
| Dosage | Once daily | Once daily |
| Digestive Benefits | Gas, bloating, irregularity relief | Gradual improvement in digestion |
| Side Effects | Possible initial adjustment | Possible initial adjustment |
| Cost | More expensive | Less expensive |
| Portability | Packets not portable once opened | Capsules are portable |
| Refrigeration | Not required | Not required |
Overview of Align Probiotic Pro Formula
Align Probiotic Pro Formula contains the patented probiotic strain Bifidobacterium 35624TM. This unique strain was discovered by Align scientists and has been clinically studied for over 15 years. Here are some key details about this probiotic formula:
- CFUs: Align Pro Formula contains 100 billion CFUs (colony forming units) per capsule, delivering a very high potency dose of probiotics.
- Strain: The probiotic strain Bifidobacterium 35624 has been shown in studies to help fortify digestive health, maintain regularity, and help ease occasional gas, bloating, diarrhea and constipation.
- Once Daily Use: The Align Pro Formula is designed for convenient, once daily use. It only needs to be taken once per day.
- Packets or Capsules: This formula is available in single-dose packets containing powder or capsules. Both provide the same probiotic benefits.
- Digestive Support: Align Pro Formula is intended to help provide digestive relief and support more frequent bowel movements. It can help during occasional digestive upset.
- No Refrigeration: Unlike some other probiotics, this formula does not require refrigeration. The proprietary encapsulation technology helps keep the probiotics stable.
Overview of Align Regular Probiotic
Align Regular probiotic contains the strain Bifidobacterium infantis 35624. This was the original strain used in Align products. Here are some key details on Align Regular:
- CFUs: Align Regular has 1 billion CFUs per capsule, which is a lower probiotic dose compared to the Pro Formula. However, it still provides a therapeutic amount of probiotics.
- Once Daily Use: The regular Align probiotic is also meant to be taken once daily for maintenance and support.
- Capsule Form: This probiotic only comes in capsule form, not packets. The capsules are sealed to help protect the live cultures.
- Digestive Balance: Where the Pro Formula targets occasional digestive upset, the regular Align probiotic is intended more for general digestive balance and maintaining regularity. It promotes overall GI health.
- Studied Strain: Like all Align products, the Align Regular probiotic contains the well-researched probiotic strain Bifidobacterium infantis 35624.
- No Refrigeration: Align Regular probiotic capsules also do not require refrigeration for stability.
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Key Differences Between Align Pro Formula vs Regular
Now that we’ve overviewed both probiotic supplements, here are some of the main differences between Align’s Probiotic Pro Formula compared to their Regular probiotic:
- CFU Count – The biggest difference is the CFU count. Align Pro Formula has 100 billion CFUs per capsule, while Align Regular has 1 billion CFUs.
- Intended Use – The Pro Formula is geared more towards helping relieve occasional digestive upset like gas, bloating, irregularity. The Regular Align targets general GI balance and maintenance.
- Form – Align Probiotic Pro Formula comes in powder packets or capsules. Align Regular is capsules only.
- Potency – With 100 billion CFUs, the Pro Formula offers a much higher potency one-capsule dose compared to the lower 1 billion CFUs in Align Regular.
- Strains – While both contain Bifidobacterium, the Pro Formula uses Bifidobacterium 35624TM while Regular contains Bifidobacterium infantis 35624. The strains are slightly different but related.
- Digestive Relief – Align Pro Formula may provide more rapid digestive relief while Align Regular works more gradually over time to maintain digestive balance.
- Occasional vs. Daily Use – Align Pro Formula may be better suited for targeted, occasional use while Align Regular is ideal as a daily maintenance probiotic.
- Cost – Align Probiotic Pro Formula is more expensive due to the higher CFU count per capsule. Align Regular costs less for a bottle.
Pros and Cons of Align Probiotic Pro Formula
Here’s an overview of some of the key pros and cons of Align’s Probiotic Pro Formula:
Pros:
- Very high potency with 100 billion CFUs per capsule
- Can help provide relief for occasional digestive upset
- Available in convenient single-dose packets
- Once daily use is simple and effective
- Doesn’t require refrigeration
- Can ease gas, bloating and irregularity
- Helps support overall digestion and bowel regularity
- Can provide relief during travel or dietary changes
- Backed by extensive research on the unique probiotic strains
Cons:
- More expensive than regular Align probiotic
- Very high CFU count may be excessive for some people
- Contains only one probiotic strain
- Packets create more packaging waste
- May cause initial adjustment side effects like gas
- Can’t take opened packets on-the-go
- May not be as effective for maintenance as a lower dose
Pros and Cons of Align Regular Probiotic
Now here is an overview of the main pros and cons for Align’s Regular probiotic formula:
Pros:
- Less expensive than Align Pro Formula
- Contains clinically studied probiotic strain
- Promotes overall digestive balance as a daily probiotic
- Capsule form is convenient and portable
- Once daily use is easy to remember
- Doesn’t require refrigeration
- May support immune health over time
- Can benefit both adults and children
- No artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners
Cons:
- Lower CFU count (1 billion) than Align Pro Formula
- May not give as rapid digestive relief
- Only available in capsules, no powder packets
- Contains just one probiotic strain
- Not specifically intended for occasional digestive upset
- May take longer to show effects than higher dose options
- Needs to be taken daily for maximum benefits
- Can cause some mild initial side effects
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Frequently Asked Questions
Align Probiotic Pro Formula is a dietary probiotic supplement made by Align that contains 100 billion CFUs per capsule of the strain Bifidobacterium 35624TM. It is one of Align’s higher potency probiotic formulas geared towards occasional digestive issues like gas, bloating and irregularity.
Align Pro Formula specifically refers to Align’s probiotic supplement that provides 100 billion CFUs of the Bifidobacterium 35624TM probiotic strain in each single capsule or packet. This high potency formula helps target periodic digestive discomfort.
Align is unique because it contains proprietary, clinically researched probiotic strains that have been extensively studied for their benefits. However, there are many high quality probiotic brands available. Align may provide advantages for some people but other probiotics can also be effective options.
Yes, it is generally safe and well-tolerated to take Align probiotics daily. The Regular Align formula is intended for everyday use to maintain digestive balance. Align Pro Formula can be taken as needed for periodic digestive issues but can also be used daily by those who tolerate it well. As with any supplement, it’s best to start with the lowest dose that provides results.
Final Thoughts
When choosing between Align Probiotic Pro Formula versus Align Regular, consider your specific needs and preferences. For some, the very high 100 billion CFU dose in the Pro Formula provides the digestive relief they want. For others, the lower 1 billion Regular Align capsule is sufficient for daily digestive maintenance and balance.
Keep in mind the Pro Formula is geared more for periodic digestive issues while the Regular Align works gradually over time.
The convenience of packets or capsules, CFU count, and cost may also impact your decision between these quality Align probiotic supplements. Assess your symptoms and needs, and consult your doctor if needed to decide which Align probiotic is right for you.