The topic at hand is about whether probiotics are beneficial for people who have had their colon removed. The person asking the question has noticed many recommendations for probiotics aimed at "colon health" and is curious if these are still useful for someone without a colon. They are seeking advice from others as they haven't found reliable information on their own.

Here are some insights and advice shared by the community:

1. Research & Skepticism
- A study from September 2018 suggests that many digestive systems may not allow standard probiotics to colonize effectively, leading some to question their benefits.
- Some positive experiences with probiotics might be due to the placebo effect or psychological benefits.

2. Medical Opinions Vary
- Some healthcare professionals advise that probiotics are unnecessary for those without a colon.
- Others recommend using probiotics after taking antibiotics to help restore beneficial bacteria.

3. Small-Intestine Focus
- Even without a colon, beneficial bacteria live in the small intestine, so prebiotics and probiotics can still impact digestion and immune health.
- Prebiotics, found in certain vegetables and plant foods, can help nourish existing bacteria.

4. Practical “Try-and-See” Approach
- It's suggested to start with probiotics slowly, observe how you feel, and include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut in your diet.
- If one brand doesn't work, try others, as different strains have varying effects and survival rates in the digestive tract.

5. Product Recommendations & Sources
- Culturelle (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) is noted for its higher survival rate and is available at a lower price at Costco.
- Align (Bifidobacterium 35624) is widely recommended and can be found at Costco and Walmart.
- Costco’s Trunature Chewable Probiotic is an affordable option, with some users finding it more effective than Align.
- Many people try multiple brands to see which works best for them.

6. Antibiotics & Gut Flora
- Broad-spectrum antibiotics can eliminate good bacteria, and probiotics might help restore balance and alleviate symptoms like nausea or heartburn.
- It's important to minimize frequent or prolonged antibiotic use and discuss alternatives with healthcare providers.

7. Additional Tips for Ostomates
- People with an ileostomy or colostomy often do not absorb time-release tablets well, so it's better to choose immediate-release forms like capsules, powders, chewables, or fermented foods.