Simple Truth Probiotic Water

Your Guide to the Gut-Healthy Beverage Taking Over Grocery Store Shelves

Probiotics are all the rage right now. These healthy gut bacteria offer a myriad of benefits, from improving digestion to boosting immunity. While supplements are the most popular way to get your daily dose of probiotics, more and more probiotic-infused foods and beverages are hitting store shelves. One of the newest offerings is Simple Truth Probiotic Water.

But what exactly is Simple Truth Probiotic Water? Does it really boost gut health like the label claims? And how does it compare to other probiotic drinks out there? I tried out Simple Truth Probiotic Water for myself and did a deep dive on the ingredients and benefits. Here’s the inside scoop on the probiotic water everyone is talking about.

What is Simple Truth Probiotic Water?

Simple Truth Probiotic Water is a refrigerated, fruit-flavored water beverage loaded with probiotics. It’s made and distributed by Kroger, one of the largest supermarket chains in the country. Simple Truth is Kroger’s natural food brand.

The probiotic water comes in 11.2oz single serving bottles with 5 different flavors: strawberry lemon, pineapple coconut, blueberry acai, orange mango, and peach. Each bottle contains 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units) of the probiotic strains Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei. These probiotic strains help promote a healthy digestive system and support overall immune health.

In addition to the probiotics, Simple Truth Probiotic Water is made with filtered water, fruit juice concentrates, citric acid, erythritol, stevia leaf extract, malic acid, and fruit and vegetable juice for color. It contains no artificial sweeteners, synthetic colors, or high fructose corn syrup. The water is also certified organic, non-GMO, gluten free, vegan, and kosher.

The Benefits of Drinking Simple Truth Probiotic Water

So why should you drink Simple Truth Probiotic Water? What benefits can you expect to gain from sipping this probiotic-packed beverage? Here are some of the top perks:

Improves Digestive Health: The Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei probiotic strains in Simple Truth Probiotic Water can help increase the levels of good bacteria in your gut. This leads to improved digestion, relief from gastrointestinal issues like bloating and constipation, and overall better gut health. The prebiotics from the fruit juice concentrates also feed the probiotics and help them flourish.

Supports Immune Function: By improving digestive health and maintaining the proper balance of bacteria in the gut, the probiotics in Simple Truth Probiotic Water can give your immune system a boost. Probiotics increase the production of short-chain fatty acids that promote the health of your gut lining. This helps prevent pathogens from leaking through the gut barrier and causing illness.

Aids Weight Loss: Some studies have found a connection between probiotic intake and weight loss or reduced body fat percentage. The healthy gut bacteria may influence appetite signaling hormones, increase fat burning, and reduce fat storage. Sipping Simple Truth Probiotic Water can help you lose or manage weight as part of an overall healthy lifestyle.

Increases Energy: When your digestive system is firing on all cylinders thanks to probiotics, your body can absorb nutrients from food more efficiently. This leads to an energy boost and reduced fatigue throughout the day. The B vitamins from the fruit juice concentrates provide an extra energy kick.

Hydrates Body: Simple Truth Probiotic Water is mostly just that – water. So it will help keep you hydrated. Proper hydration is vital for all bodily functions and even mental clarity. The delicious fruity flavors encourage you to sip more to stay hydrated.

Low in Sugar and Calories: Compared to juice, sodas, and other fruit drinks, Simple Truth Probiotic Water is very low in naturally occurring sugars and calories. Each bottle only contains 35 calories and 7 to 9 grams of sugar from the fruit juice concentrates. It makes for a light, nutritious beverage option.

Does Simple Truth Probiotic Water Actually Improve Gut Health?

The label on Simple Truth Probiotic Water states that it contains probiotics to support digestive and immune health. But does ingesting these probiotic strains actually result in tangible gut health benefits?

According to my research, the answer seems to be yes. The Bacillus coagulans (BC30) probiotic has been shown in studies to significantly improve gastrointestinal symptoms, especially in those with IBS or IBD. Lactobacillus paracasei also has solid research behind it. Supplementing with this strain reduces intestinal inflammation, diarrhea, and constipation while increasing healthy gut bacteria populations.

So while more research is still needed, the current evidence indicates that regularly consuming the specific probiotic strains in Simple Truth Probiotic Water can enhance your microbiome and support overall gut health. Just make sure to drink them before the expiration date when the probiotic bacteria are still alive and active. The refrigeration of the bottles helps maintain potency as well.

Where to Buy Simple Truth Probiotic Water

Simple Truth Probiotic Water can be found in the refrigerated drink section at Kroger grocery stores across the country. Kroger operates over 2,700 supermarkets under various banners like Kroger, Ralphs, Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter, and more.

You can check the Kroger website to find a location near you. Then call ahead to ask if your local Kroger carries Simple Truth Probiotic Water, as availability may vary by store. The probiotic water will be stocked in the produce or natural foods section, not with the sodas.

Outside of Kroger stores, Simple Truth Probiotic Water may also be available from select online retailers like Amazon. However, it’s best to purchase it fresh from the grocery store refrigerated cases. The bottles are designed to be stored chilled.

Flavors and Varieties of Simple Truth Probiotic Water

Simple Truth Probiotic Water comes in 5 refreshing fruit flavors:

Strawberry Lemon: This bright and tangy flavor combines sweet strawberries and tart lemons. It’s a crowd-pleasing combo that’s not overly sweet.

Pineapple Coconut: Escape to the tropics with the flavors of juicy pineapple and creamy coconut. A great choice if you like fruity, sweet drinks.

Blueberry Acai: The antioxidant-rich flavors of blueberries and acai berries come together in this rich purple water. It’s a little more mild and subtle in flavor.

Orange Mango: This vibrant tropical blend has notes of sweet orange and ripe mango. One of my personal favorites!

Peach: This crisp, summery flavor tastes like biting into a ripe, juicy peach. Fans of peachy flavors will love this one.

All the varieties contain the same amount of probiotics, nutrients, and ingredients. The only difference is the fruit juice concentrates that provide the flavors and colors.

No matter which you choose, be sure to shake the bottle well before drinking to distribute the probiotics. The fruit flavor is fairly mild, so you’ll mostly taste light fruity essence with a hint of tartness in the refreshing carbonated water.

Just How Many Probiotics Are in Simple Truth Probiotic Water?

Each 11.2 oz bottle of Simple Truth Probiotic Water contains a solid dose of 10 billion CFUs (colony forming units) of probiotics. The specific strains are Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei.

10 billion CFUs is a therapeutic amount that is likely enough to provide gut health benefits, according to research. Most probiotic supplements contain anywhere from 1 to 50 billion CFUs per serving. While more does not necessarily mean better, higher CFUs may help offset the die-off of some bacteria before they reach your intestines.

Drinking one bottle of Simple Truth Probiotic Water per day should provide sufficient probiotics for most healthy adults. Keep in mind that probiotics can perish over time, so check the expiration date and opt for bottles with more distant dates. Also, store them in the refrigerator instead of at room temperature.

If you have specific digestive health conditions or weakened immunity, you may benefit from a probiotic supplement in addition to probiotic water to really give your gut a boost. But for general wellness, Simple Truth Probiotic Water should supply ample probiotics.

The Lowdown on Sugar and Calories in Simple Truth Probiotic Water

When it comes to nutrition, two things that consumers watch are sugar content and calories. How does Simple Truth Probiotic Water stack up in these categories?

Sugar: Simple Truth Probiotic Water contains 7-9 grams of sugar per bottle, depending on the flavor. This sugar comes from the fruit juice concentrates. There are no added sugars or high fructose corn syrup. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar intake to no more than 25 grams per day for women and 36 grams for men, so one bottle of this probiotic water fits easily into those guidelines. The sugars are from natural fruit juice, not artificial sweeteners.

Calories: Each 11.2 oz serving of Simple Truth Probiotic Water provides 35 calories, which is quite low for a beverage. It’s much lower than juice, soda, or other flavored waters with added sugars. The calories come from the natural sugars in the fruit juice concentrates used for flavor. With only 35 calories, this drink won’t weigh you down or cause weight gain.

So Simple Truth Probiotic Water is clearly a smart choice if you’re watching your sugar and calorie consumption. It provides the added benefit of probiotics along with minimal carbs or calories.

Is Simple Truth Probiotic Water Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly?

Vegans and vegetarians will be happy to know that Simple Truth Probiotic Water is animal-product free and aligned with plant-based diets. Here is how it stacks up for special diets:

• Vegan: Yes! Simple Truth Probiotic Water contains no animal-derived ingredients or byproducts. Both the Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei probiotic strains are vegan-friendly.
• Vegetarian: Suitable for ovo-lacto vegetarian diets. There are no animal products used.
• Dairy-Free: Simple Truth Probiotic Water is 100% dairy-free, making it safe for people with dairy allergies or sensitivities.
• Soy-Free: No soy ingredients here. Good for those avoiding soy.
• Gluten-Free: All Simple Truth Probiotic Water varieties are certified gluten-free, which is important for anyone avoiding gluten.
• Paleo-Friendly: May not be strictly paleo due to the fruit juice concentrates, but is free of grains, legumes, dairy, etc. Check your specific paleo guidelines.
• Keto: Too high in natural sugars for ketogenic diets. Contains 7-9 grams net carbs.

So if you follow a vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, or gluten-free diet, you can feel good about making Simple Truth Probiotic Water your go-to probiotic beverage. It adheres to a wide range of dietary preferences.

To Refrigerate or Not to Refrigerate?

Simple Truth Probiotic Water is sold refrigerated in grocery stores and designed to be served chilled for maximum refreshment. But do the bottles require refrigeration at all times to maintain freshness and potency?

The short answer is yes – this probiotic water really needs to stay cold. The Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei probiotic strains are vulnerable to heat and moisture. Refrigeration helps the live cultures remain stable and active up until the use by date. Without it, the probiotic counts can drop.

Leaving Simple Truth Probiotic Water bottles out at room temperature for too long can compromise the integrity of the ingredients. The probiotics may start to die off, lowering the CFU count. Refrigeration also helps prevent early fermentation from the fruit juice.

For best quality, be sure to keep Simple Truth Probiotic Water chilled at all times. The bottles are meant to go straight from the grocery refrigerators into your home fridge. You can briefly transport them at room or cooler temperatures, but they shouldn’t sit out unrefrigerated for more than an hour or so.

Treat this probiotic drink like a perishable food item that requires cold temperatures. Then you can feel confident the cultures are viable and effective all the way up to expiration. The coolness also enhances the refreshing taste!

How Does Simple Truth Probiotic Water Compare to Other Probiotic Drinks?

Simple Truth Probiotic Water stands out from other ready-to-drink probiotic beverages in several key ways:

Strains Used: It contains Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei. Many brands use Lactobacillus plantarum or generic blends without disclosing strains. These are clinically-studied strains.

CFU Count: With 10 billion organisms per bottle, Simple Truth has a therapeutic dose. Some brands contain only 1 or 2 billion. Higher CFUs means more viable bacteria.

Sugar Content: Just 7-9 grams of sugar per bottle, from natural fruit juice. Much lower than the 30+ grams in many fruit juice-based options.

Calories: At just 35 calories per serving, it’s lower in calories than most probiotic drinks out there. Makes it easier to fit into your diet.

Ingredients: Free of artificial sweeteners, preservatives, etc. Contains organic fruit juice and natural flavors. Clean ingredient profile.

Packaging: Sold in single serve bottles for on-the-go portability. Doesn’t require mixing powders or supplements.

Price: More affordable than niche brands while still being high-quality. Good value for the CFU count.

Overall, Simple Truth Probiotic Water is a smart choice for probiotic supplementation with clinically-studied strains, therapeutic CFUs, and better nutrition than most beverages. The taste is also more subtle and crisp compared to thick, sweet probiotic juices.

A Look at the Ingredients in Simple Truth Probiotic Water

As a naturally-focused brand, Simple Truth uses high-quality ingredients in its probiotic water. Let’s take a peek at what you’ll find inside those bottles:

• Filtered Water: The base of Simple Truth Probiotic Water is refreshing filtered water.
• Fruit Juice Concentrates: These concentrates made from organic juices add natural sweetness, flavors, colors, and nutrients. Around 2% juice.
• Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei: The star ingredients – these therapeutic probiotic strains support digestive and immune health.
• Natural Flavors: Small amounts of natural flavors enhance the fruit tastes without anything artificial.
• Stevia Leaf Extract: For a touch of natural sweetness to balance the tartness, without spiking blood sugar.
• Citric Acid: Used sparingly to provide brightness and acidity. Also helps stabilize the probiotics.
• Erythritol: A natural sugar alcohol to provide sweetness with almost no calories or carbs.
• Malic Acid: Another acid added in small doses which gives a smoother, more round flavor.
• Fruit and Vegetable Juice: Extra juices purely for natural hues. Carrot, black currant, etc.

With this simple, recognizable list, you can see why Simple Truth Probiotic Water is a cut above your typical mainstream beverages. No funky chemicals here!

Is Simple Truth Probiotic Water Gluten-Free?

Yes, Simple Truth Probiotic Water is certified gluten-free, making it a safe bet for anyone following a gluten-free diet due to celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or another health reason.

The bottles display a prominent “Certified Gluten-Free” label. All ingredients and processing facilities are free from gluten exposure. There is no barley, rye, wheat, or other gluten-containing grains used in Simple Truth Probiotic Water.

Drinking beverages with gluten can cause serious gastrointestinal distress for those sensitive or allergic to it. Fortunately, you can sip any of the Simple Truth Probiotic Water flavors without worry – they’re all naturally gluten-free.

It’s a smart choice for gluten-free lifestyles, especially since many probiotic supplements actually contain gluten as a carrier. Simple Truth Probiotic Water allows you to get probiotics without the gluten risk.

Is Simple Truth Probiotic Water Safe for Children to Drink?

Simple Truth Probiotic Water contains probiotic strains that are safe for adults and children alike. However, there are a few factors for parents to consider:

• Age: Consult your pediatrician before giving probiotic drinks to infants under 1 year old. Toddlers and older children can safely drink Small Truth probiotic water.
• Allergies: Watch for potential allergies to ingredients like fruit juice or stevia. Discontinue use if any reactions occur.
• Dosage: Have kids stick to the recommended serving size of one 11.2 oz bottle per day. Too many probiotics can cause side effects.
• Supervision: Young kids should consume probiotic water only under adult supervision to prevent choking hazards from the bottles.
• Taste: Some flavors like Blueberry Acai or Pineapple Coconut appeal more to kids’ palates than the brighter citrus ones. Offer a variety and see which they prefer.

Simple Truth Probiotic Water makes a good probiotic source for older kids who can tolerate the ingredients. As always, check with your doctor, monitor children, and watch for reactions. Moderation is key.

Can Simple Truth Probiotic Water Replace Probiotic Supplements?

For most healthy adults looking to maintain digestive balance and immunity, Simple Truth Probiotic Water can act as a substitute for probiotic capsules or gummies.

The Bacillus coagulans and Lactobacillus paracasei strains it contains are established through research to provide gut health benefits. And at 10 billion CFUs per bottle, the therapeutic dosage is solid. Consuming one serving each day should suffice for general wellness.

However, certain populations may be better off taking a daily probiotic supplement in addition to probiotic water:

• Those with specific GI conditions like IBS or IBD
• People taking antibiotics
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
• The elderly
• Athletes or active exercisers
• Those following very restricted diets.

Supplements allow you to customize the strains and potencies to suit your needs. But Simple Truth Probiotic Water works well for healthy folks looking for more accessible probiotic support from their diets. Drink it as an easy way to get your gut-boosting cultures!

What Does Simple Truth Probiotic Water Taste Like?

With fruity flavors like Strawberry Lemon, Pineapple Coconut, and Peach, you may think Simple Truth Probiotic Water is sweet and juicy. But in actuality, the flavors are quite mild and subtle.

Here’s a rundown of what you can expect from each variety:

Strawberry Lemon: Lightly tart with a crisp lemon finish. Hints of strawberry in the background.

Pineapple Coconut: Very mild coconut and pineapple essence. More sweet than tropical.

Blueberry Acai: Silky and mildly sweet. Subtle berry tones without much tartness.

Orange Mango: Bright citrus notes complement the delicate mango flavor. Mildly sweet and tangy.

Peach: Peach nectar-like flavor but not overly sweet. Fresh and pleasant.

Overall the flavors are delicate and not too sweet – think “hint of fruit” rather than strong juice. The carbonation adds a zippy, thirst-quenching factor. You taste more of the bubbles than the fruit flavors.

I’d describe the taste as a light, fruity mineral water with a delicate sweetness and tang. Very refreshing chilled! The fruit essences complement the probiotics nicely.

What Do Customers Have to Say About Simple Truth Probiotic Water?

Reading customer reviews can offer great insight into real-life experiences with Simple Truth Probiotic Water. Here’s what users praise about this probiotic drink:

• Subtle, pleasant taste – most describe the flavor as light and mildly fruity, not overly sweet or tart
• Gentle on the stomach – no major digestive upsets reported even when consuming daily
• Provides energy boost – many remark on increased energy levels after drinking it
• Helps improve gut issues – people note relief from discomfort like bloating and gas
• Doesn’t cause weight gain – buyers say it doesn’t negatively impact their weight like sugary drinks
• Affordable for a probiotic beverage – the price point receives positive feedback
• Easy to drink on-the-go – convenient single serving bottles are appreciated
• Kids enjoy the flavor – parents report their picky children like the fruit flavors

The main complaints relate to stores being out of stock, indicating it’s a popular product. Overall, customers seem highly satisfied with Simple Truth Probiotic Water!

The Scoop on Preservatives and Artificial Sweeteners in Simple Truth Probiotic Water

When it comes to additives, Simple Truth Probiotic Water keeps it clean. Here’s what you WON’T find:

✘ No artificial sweeteners like aspartame, sucralose, or acesulfame potassium

✘ No preservatives like potassium sorbate or sodium benzoate

✘ No natural flavor chemicals or “essences” – just fruit juice concentrates

✘ No synthetic colors or dyes

✘ No added sugars or high fructose corn syrup

✘ No thickeners like guar gum or xanthan gum

This probiotic water contains no preservatives thanks to the refrigerated bottles. And without any artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, or funky chemicals, the ingredient list is one you can recognize. Just simple, natural ingredients like fruit juice and live probiotics.

What’s the Price Point for Simple Truth Probiotic Water?

Simple Truth Probiotic Water offers great value for a refrigerated probiotic beverage. The typical price for an 11.2 oz bottle is:

• Individual bottles: $1.00 – $1.50 per bottle
• 4-packs: $3.50 – $5.00 per 4-pack

When purchased individually, expect to pay around $1.25 – $1.50 per bottle. Buying in multi-packs of 4 brings the cost down to about $1.00 – $1.25 per bottle.

At major retailers like Whole Foods or Sprouts Farmers Market, similar probiotic drinks often cost $3 – $4 for a single bottle. So Simple Truth comes in well under those prices.

For the quality, therapeutic probiotic dose, and convenience, Simple Truth Probiotic Water delivers excellent value. It’s affordable enough to drink daily without breaking the bank. Just be sure to look for sales or buy in bundles for the best deal.

How Often Can You Drink Simple Truth Probiotic Water?

With 10 billion probiotics and antioxidants from fruit juice per bottle, is there any limit to how often you can enjoy Simple Truth Probiotic Water? Here are some general guidelines:

• For general wellness, one bottle daily is enough for most healthy adults to support digestive and immune health.
• Consuming up to two bottles per day is still considered safe for healthy individuals.
• People dealing with specific gut issues like digestive disorders or autoimmune diseases may benefit from two bottles daily. Check with your doctor.
• Moderation is key – excessive probiotic intake can potentially cause side effects like gas or bloating. Too much of a good thing!
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of plain water as well. Probiotic water should not replace regular water consumption.
• Bottles are single serve to provide the right amount per drinking occasion. Don’t gulp multiple bottles at once.

Drinking one or two bottles of Simple Truth Probiotic Water daily fits safely into a healthy lifestyle. Pay attention to your body’s signals, stay hydrated, and enjoy your probiotic boost!

The Bottom Line on Simple Truth Probiotic Water

When it comes to probiotic-infused beverages, Simple Truth Probiotic Water is a smart choice. It contains research-backed probiotic strains at therapeutic doses to enhance your microbiome. The light, crisp fruit flavors make for a refreshing pick-me-up.

Simple Truth Probiotic Water offers clinical-grade probiotics in a convenient, ready-to-drink format. No messy powders to mix up! At just 35 calories and 7-9 grams of sugar, it fits easily into a balanced diet. Plus, the affordable price means you can drink one daily without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to level up your gut health with probiotics, grab a chilled bottle of Simple Truth Probiotic Water next time you hit up Kroger. Your digestive system and immune function will thank you!