well thats a good question. personally i like the LB17 since the bacteria are actually allowed to live outside for two years before they package them up! this means they are hardy and active, not weak and pathetic like most probiotics.
however, a friend of mine tried every probiotic under the sun, including LB17 and none of them worked until she tried the syntol, and that worked.
so, it could be an individual thing.
did you see North's post below about how to make fermented veggies at home?
did i mention figs? seems like eating lots of figs is very helpful for my bowels.