Frequently Asked Questions on Prescript Assist
You don't mention how many billion cells or quantity of bacteria (CFU) is in Prescript-Assist.
Can you tell me how many are in each capsule?
Prescript-Assist contains 145 million per capsule.
However, although consumers have been conditioned to look for the amount of organisms per capsule, Prescript-Assist cannot be compared to CFU's in lacto and bifido based probiotics. These products require these massive numbers because 99%+ die during manufacturing, prolonged storage, stomach acid, etc.
Prescript-Assist is a shelf-stable probiotic that has been tested to retain its potency over time (with variations of less than 5% over 2 years from date of manufacture when stored at 98°F / 37°C). This is the primary reason that the CFU's are not listed in our materials.
Can you tell me how many are in each capsule?
Prescript-Assist contains 145 million per capsule.
However, although consumers have been conditioned to look for the amount of organisms per capsule, Prescript-Assist cannot be compared to CFU's in lacto and bifido based probiotics. These products require these massive numbers because 99%+ die during manufacturing, prolonged storage, stomach acid, etc.
Prescript-Assist is a shelf-stable probiotic that has been tested to retain its potency over time (with variations of less than 5% over 2 years from date of manufacture when stored at 98°F / 37°C). This is the primary reason that the CFU's are not listed in our materials.
Can I store my Prescript Assist in the refrigerator?
One of the greatest conveniences of Prescript Assist is that it is entirely shelf stable and able to be stored without the need for refrigeration. However, we do still have the question arise of whether it would prolong the life and potency of the probiotic to store it below room temperature.
Although it may marginally benefit the lifespan of the product, the risk of humidity in the refrigerator is something that we recommend avoiding, as moisture is one of the things that can damage the product during storage. Ideally, the bottle would be stored in a cool, dry location with the lid screwed tightly closed to prevent this from occurring.
One of the greatest conveniences of Prescript Assist is that it is entirely shelf stable and able to be stored without the need for refrigeration. However, we do still have the question arise of whether it would prolong the life and potency of the probiotic to store it below room temperature.
Although it may marginally benefit the lifespan of the product, the risk of humidity in the refrigerator is something that we recommend avoiding, as moisture is one of the things that can damage the product during storage. Ideally, the bottle would be stored in a cool, dry location with the lid screwed tightly closed to prevent this from occurring.
Is Prescript-Assist Vegan/Gluten-Free/Dairy-Free/Etc.?
Prescript-Assist is completely free of dairy, lacto-fermented bacteria, gluten, animal-products, allergens, etc.
It is also non-GMO, in case you were curious. Our vegetable capsules are an arboreal-sourced cellulose fiber. These factors are what make Prescript-Assist such a versatile probiotic supplement and capable of meeting the needs of most specialty diets such as Paleolithic, GAPS, SCD and Vegan - all of which are becoming more and more popular.
Prescript-Assist is completely free of dairy, lacto-fermented bacteria, gluten, animal-products, allergens, etc.
It is also non-GMO, in case you were curious. Our vegetable capsules are an arboreal-sourced cellulose fiber. These factors are what make Prescript-Assist such a versatile probiotic supplement and capable of meeting the needs of most specialty diets such as Paleolithic, GAPS, SCD and Vegan - all of which are becoming more and more popular.
Is there a maximum amount of Prescript-Assist that I can take per day?
Prescript-Assist has been shown to be extremely safe when taken in large quantities. It is actually recommended to be taken in higher dosages if being used to help battle aggressive GI tract issues such as traveler's diarrhea or colitis.
The beneficial species of microflora contained within each capsule naturally exist in much higher quantities within the human gut - or at least they should when your gut is healthy and functioning normally.
Prescript-Assist has been shown to be extremely safe when taken in large quantities. It is actually recommended to be taken in higher dosages if being used to help battle aggressive GI tract issues such as traveler's diarrhea or colitis.
The beneficial species of microflora contained within each capsule naturally exist in much higher quantities within the human gut - or at least they should when your gut is healthy and functioning normally.
Can I take Prescript-Assist even if I'm taking another probiotic?
Yes. Prescript-Assist is not only safe to take while taking other probiotics, but the bacterial strains within the soil-based probiotic actually may benefit from use of lactic acid based bacteria.
Since our internal ecosystem is made up of thousands of different strains of bacteria, taking multiple types of probiotics could perhaps even be considered "ideal" for helping to rebuild damage to the gut or easing digestive disorders.
Yes. Prescript-Assist is not only safe to take while taking other probiotics, but the bacterial strains within the soil-based probiotic actually may benefit from use of lactic acid based bacteria.
Since our internal ecosystem is made up of thousands of different strains of bacteria, taking multiple types of probiotics could perhaps even be considered "ideal" for helping to rebuild damage to the gut or easing digestive disorders.
Can Prescript-Assist capsules be opened and put into food? Prescript-Assist capsules are perfectly safe to open and add to food. We often hear of parents who choose to add the powder to smoothies, apple sauce, juices, etc. for their children as a way to bypass the trouble of swallowing a pill.
Our only recommendation would be to ensure that this is only done when the food or drink it to be consumed immediately. Prescript-Assist should not be added to yogurts and such that you plan on storing for days on end.
Our only recommendation would be to ensure that this is only done when the food or drink it to be consumed immediately. Prescript-Assist should not be added to yogurts and such that you plan on storing for days on end.
If I mix my Prescript-Assist into a shake (or other food), how long can I store it in the refrigerator for?
We have many customers who utilize the Prescript-Assist in a manner where they will add it to cool or room-temperature food or beverages such as juice, smoothies, apple sauce, and even yogurt.
However, although this is a perfectly acceptable use, we do not recommend that the Prescript-Assist be blended into something you do not plan to consume immediately. The soil-based bacteria in the product is stored in a dry, dormant state meant to be activated via the digestive tract – once its storage environment has been altered, we cannot guarantee shelf life or the quality of the product being consumed.
We have many customers who utilize the Prescript-Assist in a manner where they will add it to cool or room-temperature food or beverages such as juice, smoothies, apple sauce, and even yogurt.
However, although this is a perfectly acceptable use, we do not recommend that the Prescript-Assist be blended into something you do not plan to consume immediately. The soil-based bacteria in the product is stored in a dry, dormant state meant to be activated via the digestive tract – once its storage environment has been altered, we cannot guarantee shelf life or the quality of the product being consumed.
Should I start taking Prescript-Assist during or after a course of antibiotics?
Prescript-Assist can be taken before, during, and after a course of antibiotics. While some recommend that probiotics be delayed until the full course of antibiotics has been completed in order to save it for when its full benefits can be experienced, studies have suggested that probiotic usage may help stave off negative side effects of antibiotics – such as diarrhea.
As always, please remember to consult with your physician before implementing a probiotic supplement.
Prescript-Assist can be taken before, during, and after a course of antibiotics. While some recommend that probiotics be delayed until the full course of antibiotics has been completed in order to save it for when its full benefits can be experienced, studies have suggested that probiotic usage may help stave off negative side effects of antibiotics – such as diarrhea.
As always, please remember to consult with your physician before implementing a probiotic supplement.
How long should I be on Prescript-Assist after taking an antibiotic? And how much should I take?
You should be on Prescript-Assist for at least ten days after you've completed a course of antibiotics. Two capsules twice a day on an empty stomach will help to replace the good bacteria that's been lost.
Taking Prescript-Assist daily to maintain good flora is also recommended to ensure protection against other factors that effect the bacteria populations in your gut.
You should be on Prescript-Assist for at least ten days after you've completed a course of antibiotics. Two capsules twice a day on an empty stomach will help to replace the good bacteria that's been lost.
Taking Prescript-Assist daily to maintain good flora is also recommended to ensure protection against other factors that effect the bacteria populations in your gut.
I am X months pregnant, is Prescript-Assist safe to take?
We have decided to address this question since we've seen an increase in mothers specifically inquiring about Prescript-Assist during their pregnancy.
Although Prescript-Assist is a safe yet effective probiotic supplement, we ask that you please consult with your physician if you are pregnant or nursing should you wish to add it to your supplement regime.
We have decided to address this question since we've seen an increase in mothers specifically inquiring about Prescript-Assist during their pregnancy.
Although Prescript-Assist is a safe yet effective probiotic supplement, we ask that you please consult with your physician if you are pregnant or nursing should you wish to add it to your supplement regime.
What is the "Leonardite" that is in the Prescript-Assist product?
Leonardite is used in our Prescript-Assist soil-based probiotic as a prebiotic - helping to establish the beneficial microflora once it reaches your gut by acting as an immediate food source.
Leonardite itself is a mineraloid substance that results when lignite - a sedimentary rock formed from decaying plant material - is oxidized.
It is a rich source of humic acid and is often used to condition depleted and polluted soils due to its ability to accelerate microbial activity.
Leonardite is used in our Prescript-Assist soil-based probiotic as a prebiotic - helping to establish the beneficial microflora once it reaches your gut by acting as an immediate food source.
Leonardite itself is a mineraloid substance that results when lignite - a sedimentary rock formed from decaying plant material - is oxidized.
It is a rich source of humic acid and is often used to condition depleted and polluted soils due to its ability to accelerate microbial activity.
Why is there dirt inside my Prescript-Assist< bottle?
The dark dust on the interior of the container is residual powder from the encapsulation process - this can be seen in virtually all encapsulated powder supplements on the market, though is obviously more visible in a product as dark as Prescript-Assist and with the surrounding white bottle. It is also going to be more visible in this product because vegetable capsules tend to fracture more during manufacturing (vs gelatin capsules), leading to even more 'dusting' of the neighboring capsules, and ultimately the interior of the bottle.
The dark dust on the interior of the container is residual powder from the encapsulation process - this can be seen in virtually all encapsulated powder supplements on the market, though is obviously more visible in a product as dark as Prescript-Assist and with the surrounding white bottle. It is also going to be more visible in this product because vegetable capsules tend to fracture more during manufacturing (vs gelatin capsules), leading to even more 'dusting' of the neighboring capsules, and ultimately the interior of the bottle.
Can I use Prescript-Assist topically?
Although our skin is also teeming with its own microbiome which may benefit from a boost of probiotic, the blend that is found in our Prescript-Assist is specifically tailored for use as a dietary supplement.
That being said, there is no reason that you should not be able to apply it in that manner if you so wish – we simply have no research that has been conducted on the benefits it may or may not provide.
Although our skin is also teeming with its own microbiome which may benefit from a boost of probiotic, the blend that is found in our Prescript-Assist is specifically tailored for use as a dietary supplement.
That being said, there is no reason that you should not be able to apply it in that manner if you so wish – we simply have no research that has been conducted on the benefits it may or may not provide.
Does Prescript-Assist help with acne?
The foundation of almost all natural acne treatments starts with bowel cleansing and replenishing your good intestinal flora. Since Prescript-Assist is both a probiotic and prebiotic, this is an ideal way to ensure a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
However, I wouldn't stop there. There are dietary changes that can be made as well to assist you in your journey to a better complexion. As you know, your skin is often an advertisement of your internal health. That being said, the Weston A. Price Foundation's Dr. Thomas Cowan discusses various nutritional options for assuring a healthy gut and clear skin.
The foundation of almost all natural acne treatments starts with bowel cleansing and replenishing your good intestinal flora. Since Prescript-Assist is both a probiotic and prebiotic, this is an ideal way to ensure a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
However, I wouldn't stop there. There are dietary changes that can be made as well to assist you in your journey to a better complexion. As you know, your skin is often an advertisement of your internal health. That being said, the Weston A. Price Foundation's Dr. Thomas Cowan discusses various nutritional options for assuring a healthy gut and clear skin.
Can Prescript-Assist help with bad breath?
Yes, Prescript-Assist has been known to help with bad breath. Halitosis can be the result of poor gastrointestinal function as well as other things like candida, periodontal disease, or simply an abundance of anaerobic bacteria thriving in a dark, inactive environment.
We've had very positive feedback with those who have started using this for that purpose. We've also suggested emptying a capsule underneath your tongue prior to sleep for some of the more stubborn cases.
Yes, Prescript-Assist has been known to help with bad breath. Halitosis can be the result of poor gastrointestinal function as well as other things like candida, periodontal disease, or simply an abundance of anaerobic bacteria thriving in a dark, inactive environment.
We've had very positive feedback with those who have started using this for that purpose. We've also suggested emptying a capsule underneath your tongue prior to sleep for some of the more stubborn cases.
I see that there are Strep strains in your Prescript-Assist probiotic. Doesn’t that cause infections like Strep throat?
The unfortunate confusion around the role of the genus Streptomyces is caused by the similar sounding -- yet vastly different -- genus Streptococcus. While Streptococcus are spherical, gram-positive bacteria in the phylum Firmicutes, Streptomyces bacteria are soil-based strains of bacteria in the phylum Actinobacteria. Occurring in entirely different phyla (categories of microorganisms), the two share very little in common, with exception of the first five letters in their names.
It is the genus Streptococcus to which infections such as strep throat, bacterial meningitis, pink eye, urinary tract infections and bacterial pneumonia are attributed, with the often-abbreviated term for these bacterial infections being “Strep,” short for Streptococcus. Our Prescript-Assist product contains bacteria not from the genus Streptococcus but from the genus Streptomyces, namely Streptomyces fradiae, Streptomyces cellulosae, and Streptomyces griseoflavus.
That being said, not only are many species of Streptococcus non-pathogenic, but they are an integral part of our commensal microbiome and therefore essential to our health and wellbeing.
Did You Know: One of the first cures for tuberculosis was synthesized using Streptomyces griseus.
The unfortunate confusion around the role of the genus Streptomyces is caused by the similar sounding -- yet vastly different -- genus Streptococcus. While Streptococcus are spherical, gram-positive bacteria in the phylum Firmicutes, Streptomyces bacteria are soil-based strains of bacteria in the phylum Actinobacteria. Occurring in entirely different phyla (categories of microorganisms), the two share very little in common, with exception of the first five letters in their names.
It is the genus Streptococcus to which infections such as strep throat, bacterial meningitis, pink eye, urinary tract infections and bacterial pneumonia are attributed, with the often-abbreviated term for these bacterial infections being “Strep,” short for Streptococcus. Our Prescript-Assist product contains bacteria not from the genus Streptococcus but from the genus Streptomyces, namely Streptomyces fradiae, Streptomyces cellulosae, and Streptomyces griseoflavus.
That being said, not only are many species of Streptococcus non-pathogenic, but they are an integral part of our commensal microbiome and therefore essential to our health and wellbeing.
Did You Know: One of the first cures for tuberculosis was synthesized using Streptomyces griseus.
Does Prescript-Assist help with seasonal allergies?We do not currently have research directly involving the Prescript-Assist product to support this claim. However, current medical research has begun to delve into the gut microbiome and its influence on inflammatory conditions. More and more studies are concluding that a robust and diverse microbial composition is not only an essential part of a healthy immune system but plays a large role in allergies and sensitivities.
Many of these studies focus on the reduced instances of allergies due to increased environmental/microbial exposures from an early age, and have begun to support augmentation of deficient microbiomes in adults with gut-focused dietary changes including living foods and supplementation with probiotics.
Many of these studies focus on the reduced instances of allergies due to increased environmental/microbial exposures from an early age, and have begun to support augmentation of deficient microbiomes in adults with gut-focused dietary changes including living foods and supplementation with probiotics.
Can Prescript Assist be used for those with Candida?Although we cannot advise directly on any specific condition, many of the practitioners that use the Prescript Assist product have found it to be a beneficial part of protocols customized for their patient's needs.
It should be advised, however, that feedback from those with Candida using the Prescript Assist have frequently reported a more significant Herxheimer reaction than the average person. Should this be the case, starting with a lower dose - which may require the opening and portioning of capsule contents - may help to minimize the severity of the reaction to a more manageable level.
It should be advised, however, that feedback from those with Candida using the Prescript Assist have frequently reported a more significant Herxheimer reaction than the average person. Should this be the case, starting with a lower dose - which may require the opening and portioning of capsule contents - may help to minimize the severity of the reaction to a more manageable level.
Can Prescript-Assist be cultured at home?
For those of you seeking a short answer - no, it cannot.
We've been asked variations of this question including whether it can be lacto-fermented, cultured into a yogurt, cultured using soil, made into a probiotic drink with Kombucha, etc.
Unfortunately, we have to answer no to all of those. Yes, it would not only be convenient, cost effective, and beneficial to be able to cultivate this potent probiotic whenever we needed... but this happens to be one with a complex blend of complementary, soil-based micro-organisms requiring a labor-intensive manufacturing process to ensure quality and efficacy.
However, given the rising popularity of probiotic foods and food fermentation, there should be a sufficient amount of alternative projects should the "craving to culture" strike (which we fully encourage!).
For those of you seeking a short answer - no, it cannot.
We've been asked variations of this question including whether it can be lacto-fermented, cultured into a yogurt, cultured using soil, made into a probiotic drink with Kombucha, etc.
Unfortunately, we have to answer no to all of those. Yes, it would not only be convenient, cost effective, and beneficial to be able to cultivate this potent probiotic whenever we needed... but this happens to be one with a complex blend of complementary, soil-based micro-organisms requiring a labor-intensive manufacturing process to ensure quality and efficacy.
However, given the rising popularity of probiotic foods and food fermentation, there should be a sufficient amount of alternative projects should the "craving to culture" strike (which we fully encourage!).
