It's a matter of maximum survivability. While most quality probiotics are developed and selected for their ability to survive in a broad range of pH environments and temperatures, some will still die-off before they reach the intestines.

The body naturally delays moving proteins from the stomach to the less acidic environment of the intestines in order to allow the protein more time to be broken down by stomach acid. Taking probiotics with a meal, particularly a high protein meal, will cause the probiotics to be subjected to a very acidic environment in the stomach for up to 2 hours. This delay exposes the probiotics to the acids and will naturally decrease their numbers.

Taking your probiotics 1/2 hour before a meal or 2 hours after a meal will allow the probiotics time to move into the intestines without undue delay and at high strength.

In this age of instant news gratification its understandable that news outlets are going to go with the most sensational items to try to garner the highest ratings; that's what they do. I myself have stopped listening as have a number of my patients.

I have my patients do the kindergarten basics when it comes to their immune health and protecting themselves and their families.

1. Wash your hands frequently, especially after using the facilities.
2. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Try using your inside elbow to sneeze and cough into instead of your hand. If you use your hand, wash it.
3. If you feel sick stay away from other people; don't go to school or work, stay home.
4. Prepare your body before cold and flu season; eat a whole food diet, exercise, get plenty of sunshine and take your basic supplements; probiotics, whole food multiple and fish oil.

C'mon, don't be "pig-headed", follow the basics and stay healthy.