You should not feel any direct effect from taking probiotics. They should gradually help with your digestion. My experience is that it took me 3 months of probiotics, orally and rectally, to reduce my food allergies. It did allow me to eat and drink dairy products which I have not been able to do since my childhood. Also I have had a severe allergy to spinach, since my childhood, and again I am able to eat spinach.
I don’t take an expensive probiotic. Orally I take a cap of Primadophilus Bifidus by Nature’s Way and take an acidophilus enema once a week. 1/8th teaspoon of acidophilus powder, non dairy by Alternative Health & Herbs Remedies in a cup of water.
I eat yoghurt regularly. I had replaced my morning coffee with a glass of water plus the juice of half a lemon. I’m back to coffee at present. I have taken 2 oz ACV daily with some fruit juice every morning for my arthritis but since I am no longer bothered by it i have quit taking it. I love curry so I eat it regularly so I do get my share of tumeric. Try not to be extreme. Everything in moderation.
What do you mean by “cheaper” probiotic? Be careful. Taking “stuff” orally you get the protection of saliva, stomach acid, bile and other enzymes to neutralize any “bad” chemicals but taking it rectally you do not get any of these protective guards. Always keep this in mind.
I think you are doing fine. I wish you a healthy and happy life.