Probiotics have become an increasingly popular way to support digestive and immune health. Two well-known probiotic supplements are Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG. But what exactly are these products, and how do they compare?
This comprehensive guide examines the key differences and similarities between Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Enflora LGG | Probiotic LGG |
| Strains | Contains only the single strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) | Typically contains LGG plus other proprietary probiotic strains |
| CFU Count | 1 billion CFU of LGG per serving | Varies by product, often higher CFU counts like 5 or 10 billion of LGG |
| Use Cases | Added to Nutramigen infant formula | Taken as supplement by adults and older children |
| Additional Ingredients | No added ingredients beyond LGG | May include prebiotics, vitamins, minerals, etc. |
| Cost | Only available as part of Nutramigen formula which is expensive | More budget-friendly as a standalone supplement |
| Formats | Available only within Nutramigen formula | Variety of delivery methods like capsules, gummies, powders |
| Refrigeration | Requires refrigeration to maintain viability of bacteria | Requires refrigeration like all probiotics |
What Is Enflora LGG?
Enflora LGG is a probiotic supplement produced by Mead Johnson, makers of the infant formula Nutramigen. It contains the patented probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (often abbreviated as LGG), which is perhaps the most clinically studied probiotic strain.
LGG has been shown in studies to help treat acute infectious diarrhea in children, prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and reduce the risk of respiratory infections. It may also alleviate intestinal inflammation and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
Enflora LGG is added to Nutramigen formula to create Nutramigen with Enflora LGG. This probiotic-supplemented formula is designed to reduce fussiness, gas, and crying in babies with cow’s milk allergy or colic.
The Enflora LGG probiotic contains only the single strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. Each dose provides a minimum of 1 billion colony forming units (CFUs) of viable LGG bacteria.
What Are Probiotic LGG Supplements?
Probiotic LGG refers to probiotic supplements that contain the Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG strain, but are produced by companies other than Mead Johnson.
LGG is a patented strain, so other probiotic manufacturers cannot use the name “Enflora LGG”, but many include this beneficial strain in their broad-spectrum probiotic formulas. These LGG probiotics may combine several strains, with LGG being one of them.
For example, the brand Culturelle contains LGG along with three other probiotic strains in their products. Other popular probiotics with LGG include Align, Renew Life, and Hyperbiotics Pro-Kids.
The amount of LGG bacteria in these supplements can vary. Align provides 1 billion CFUs of LGG per dose, while other brands may supply 5 or 10 billion CFUs of this strain per serving.
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Key Similarities Between Enflora LGG And Probiotic LGG
Although Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG come from different manufacturers, they share some key commonalities:
- Contain the strain LGG: All these products include the well-researched probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. This strain has been shown to provide a range of digestive and immune benefits.
- Supply beneficial bacteria: Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG products deliver live LGG bacteria that can populate the intestines and provide health advantages. They supply a therapeutic dose of probiotics.
- Require refrigeration: Like all probiotics, LGG products need to be refrigerated to maintain the viability of the live bacteria. Both Enflora and other LGG probiotics will specify “refrigerate after opening” on the packaging.
- Help treat diarrhea: Multiple studies show that LGG from both Enflora and probiotic supplements can shorten the duration of infectious diarrhea in children by nearly a day. It can also prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
- Support digestive health: LGG has been found to alleviate IBS symptoms, improve lactose digestion, and reduce intestinal inflammation. Both Enflora and probiotic LGG provide these digestive benefits.
Key Differences Between Enflora LGG And Probiotic LGG
While Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG share some common probiotic attributes, there are some notable differences between these two supplement types:
- Strain diversity: Enflora contains just the single strain LGG, while probiotic LGG supplements often combine LGG with other probiotic strains. This strain diversity may provide broader probiotic benefits.
- CFU count: Enflora LGG guarantees 1 billion live LGG bacteria per dose. But probiotic LGG supplements may supply higher amounts, like 5, 10, or 20 billion CFUs per serving. More CFUs means more good bacteria.
- Intended use: Enflora LGG is added to infant formula, while probiotic LGG supplements are taken by adults and older children. Probiotic LGG dosages and formulations are tailored for these age groups.
- Additional ingredients: Probiotic LGG supplements may include bonus ingredients like prebiotics or vitamins. Enflora LGG does not contain any added ingredients beyond the pure LGG bacteria.
- Cost: Enflora LGG can only be purchased as part of Nutramigen formula, which is pricier than stand-alone probiotic supplements. Probiotic LGG is more widely available and affordable.
- Formats: Probiotic LGG comes in various delivery formats like capsules, chewables, powders, and gummies to suit different preferences. Enflora LGG is only found within Nutramigen formula.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Nutramigen Enflora is not the same thing as a probiotic. Enflora is a specific probiotic strain called Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) that is added to Nutramigen infant formula. Probiotics in general refer to any supplement that contains live beneficial bacteria. While Enflora LGG is a probiotic, not all probiotics are the same as Enflora.
Yes, Enflora LGG is a probiotic. It contains the well-researched probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. Enflora LGG provides live LGG bacteria that can deliver probiotic benefits related to immunity and digestion.
The only difference between regular Nutramigen and Nutramigen with Enflora LGG is the addition of the probiotic LGG in Enflora. Nutramigen on its own is an extensively hydrolyzed casein protein infant formula. When it is combined with Enflora LGG, the formula also provides 1 billion CFU of probiotics.
Nutramigen with Enflora LGG is an infant formula made by Mead Johnson. It combines the extensively hydrolyzed protein Nutramigen with a probiotic supplement called Enflora LGG. Enflora LGG provides 1 billion CFU of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) in each serving. This probiotic-enhanced formula is designed to reduce colic, crying, and gastrointestinal discomfort in babies.
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The Verdict
So when comparing Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG supplements, which one should you opt for? Here are some factors to consider:
- If you want to supplement an infant’s formula with probiotics, Enflora LGG in Nutramigen is an excellent choice with research supporting its safety and efficacy.
- For older children and adults, a multi-strain probiotic with LGG allows you to get this beneficial strain along with other complementary probiotics.
- Probiotic LGG supplements are more budget-friendly and give you flexibility in dosing and format. Enflora LGG can only be purchased as part of expensive formula.
- If you want to maximize the dose of LGG, choose a probiotic LGG supplement with a higher guaranteed CFU count. Enflora’s 1 billion CFU may be lower than some supplements.
- Those with sensitivities may prefer Enflora LGG from Nutramigen since it does not contain any unnecessary additives beyond the LGG itself.
Overall, both Enflora LGG and probiotic LGG supplements can be excellent choices depending on your needs. Consult your pediatrician if giving to infants, start with the lowest effective dose, and adjust as needed to determine what works best for your gut health.