Simply put, everything in your body works better when your gut is happy. And no, this is not an excuse to help yourself to a second piece of your favorite Tiramisu. There's a reason your small intestine is about 20 feet long; there's a lot happening in there. The small intestine is responsible for absorbing most of the nutrients from what we eat and drink. We should have over 400 types of 'good' microorganisms, called probiotics, to help maintain a natural balance by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria and promoting a healthy digestive system. Probiotics also boost the immune system, reduce the side effects of some antibiotics, and generally keep things moving right along, ifyouknowwhatwemean. Our food scientists routinely show off around the office by pronouncing our probiotics—Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium Bifidum—without missing a beat. Where our formula differs is in the inclusion of a long list of Pre-Biotics. These complex sugars, (such as lactulose, lactitol, a variety of fructooligosaccharides and inulin) act as food by the Pro-Biotic bacteria and microorganisms to stimulate their growth and activity and help the Pro-Biotics remain in the gut. When pro-biotics and pre-biotics are combined, they form a symbiotic relationship; if you've been ill or your colon is compromised by sickness, age, or excessive antibiotic use you'll want to be sure to take both pre- and pro-biotics to help these valuable microorganisms remain where they belong. Our combined formula uses Inulin from Agave to ensure the Pre-Biotic base is already partially broken down, making it even more digestible. Our Pre-Biotic ingredients also include whole grain wheat germ, soy, whole grain spelt germ, orange, apple, apricot, carrots, lemon, and yeast.  Yeast has been used since the beginning of the century as an intestinal stimulant and culture yeast (saccharomyces cerevisae) not only increases the production of digestive enzymes but reduces the side effects of antibiotics. Although this product is not 'gluten free', many gluten-sensitive customers are able to use it by starting off with a smaller dose.  Due to the absence of any preservatives or pesticides and the addition of germinated or fermented ingredients, many find they have no difficulty using this product.  There is quite a bit of independent research that supports the theory that for many who believe they have 'gluten sensitivity' it may well be the preservatives and pesticides that cause ill effects.  It is estimated than only about 1% of us suffer from the more serious Celiac Disease.