Probiotics Are Trending: What Matters Just as Much

I had hit a breaking point.

Overwhelming burnout. Brain fog. Fatigue. Anxious feelings. And the feeling that I was simply going through the motions.

I was showing up for everyone and everything, but I was running on empty.

As I started learning more about the gut and the gut-brain connection, I began paying much closer attention to what was happening inside my body. Prebiotics, probiotics, nutrition, sleep, stress, movement—it all started to make more sense.

Specific probiotic strains became an important part of my own wellness journey, and I used them consistently for almost two years.

But here's what’s important: It wasn't just the probiotic.

One of the questions I get most often is, “Do I have to take a probiotic forever?”

My answer: not necessarily.

For me, probiotics were one piece of a much bigger picture. They worked alongside changes in the way I ate, moved, managed stress, rested, prayed, and cared for myself.

And that's what I want to talk about today.

First, let's clear up a few terms.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. Certain fermented foods contain live microorganisms, and probiotics are also available as supplements.

Prebiotics are substances, primarily certain types of dietary fiber, that are used by microorganisms in the body and can help support a healthy gut environment. Prebiotics feed the probiotics.

And when probiotics and prebiotics are intentionally combined, we call that a synbiotic.

I think of supplements as something that can fill a gap—not replace the foundation.

For me, that foundation includes a variety of plants, fiber-rich foods, fermented foods when tolerated, movement, sleep, stress management, prayer, and connection.

And that foundation matters whether you ever take a probiotic supplement or not.

As my brain fog lifted and my energy began to return, I started looking at my daily life differently.

Not just “What am I eating?”

But: What am I taking in?

Am I eating enough plants and fiber? Foods like vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds provide fibers that gut microbes can use. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can provide live microorganisms.

Am I moving my body regularly? Walking and exercise are simple ways to support overall health, and research continues to show connections between physical activity and the gut microbiome.

What am I carrying? How much am I taking on? Chronic stress can affect the way our bodies function, including digestion.

Am I making time to be still? For me, prayer and quiet became important parts of how I manage stress and care for my whole self.

Am I making time for the people I love? Family, friendship, and meaningful connection matter, too. There is a lot in life we can't control. But there is much we can influence.

Recent research continues to support the idea that gut health is influenced by more than one thing.

A 2026 review in Frontiers in Sports and Active Living looked at the relationship between diet, exercise, probiotics, and the gut microbiome. The authors highlighted research suggesting that moderate exercise can support gut microbial diversity and that diet and movement may work together to influence inflammation and other aspects of health.

Research on fermented foods is also interesting.

A 2026 review in Molecules emphasized an important distinction: fermented foods and probiotic supplements are not interchangeable. The microorganisms found in fermented foods can vary considerably, while probiotic supplements contain specific strains that can be studied for specific effects.

And then there's the Stanford fermented-food study published in Cell in 2021.

In that study, healthy adults followed either a high-fiber diet or a diet high in fermented foods for 10 weeks. The fermented-food group experienced an increase in gut microbial diversity and a decrease in several markers of inflammation.

That doesn't mean fermented foods are “better” than fiber.

It means: Different foods and habits can influence the gut in different ways.

A probiotic isn't just a probiotic.

Different strains have different characteristics and different evidence behind them.

That means when you're evaluating a probiotic, don't just look at the number of CFUs on the bottle. Look at the specific strains and what research exists for those strains and the health outcome you're interested in.

This is one reason I share exactly what I personally used rather than simply telling you to “take a probiotic.” I took Mentabiotics combined with nootropics in the Happy Juice Pack.

I used these consistently during a season when I was focused on supporting my gut and overall wellness, and they were part of what I personally found helpful.

And a little FYI: There is currently a 20% off promotion with free shipping, so if you've been considering either one, this may be a good time to take a look. Use codes AMARE1026 and SHIPJHFREE

Learn more about Happy Juice

As nutrition, movement, nervous-system practices, prayer, stress management, and other healthy routines became part of my life, my needs changed too.

Supplements should support your foundation—not become the foundation.

Try one:

Pick one. Practice it for a week. Then build from there.

The goal is to build a lifestyle that supports the body you're trying to care for.

And that is where lasting change begins. 🌿

When I was burned out, it was in some ways because I was ‘burning the midnight oil’. But rest is vital for our health and God calls us to put our rest in Him.

“Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” - Matthew 11:28

This week, take five minutes to simply be still.

Bring the load you've been carrying to God and listen. Where in your life are you just going through the motions? What would it look like to lay that down today and simply rest with God?

You don't have to carry it all by yourself.

Your body was designed to thrive. Sometimes it just needs the right building blocks to remember how.

With faith, science, and wellness,
Liz, The Wellness Nurse 🌿

Registered Nurse | Certified Mental Wellness Coach

P.S. Did any of this resonate with you? Hit reply and share- I read every response and want to hear from you.

P.P.S— What took me years, I have specifically designed into 6 months. It is a simple, step-by-step process with guides, built to help you make the shifts in this article one manageable step at a time and turn them into habits that last. Nothing about it is an overnight fix. It is little changes over time.

The important question to ask yourself is this: am I willing to show up consistently for my health? If the answer is yes, I would love to walk with you. You can find it here: 6-Month Foundational Restoration Program

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⚕️ Medical Disclaimer The content in The Wellness Nurse is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplement routine, or health practices.

A note on transparency: some links in this newsletter are affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission if you choose to purchase through them — at no added cost to you. I share what I personally use, believe in, and would recommend to someone I care about. My goal is always your health and wellbeing.