Probiotics are nutritional supplements that contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria. The best probiotic supplements offer a variety of gut health benefits including better digestion, stronger immune system, more energy, less IBS symptoms, and even weight loss.
Although you can benefit from eating fermented foods that contain probiotics, such as kefir and sauerkraut, the best way to improve gut health is by taking a daily probiotic supplement.
However, choosing the best probiotics for gut health isn’t easy. To help you find a good probiotic that actually works, we’ve reviewed the top probiotic brands on the market. We evaluated each probiotic pill below based on its CFU count, type of strains included, price, and value.
If you’re ready for better gut health, here are the top rated probiotics to try.
Best Probiotic Supplements
- YourBiology gut+ (Best for women)
- Biotics 8 (Best for men)
- 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum
- VitaPost Probiotic 40-Billion
- BioTRUST Pro-X10
- Nature’s Bounty Acidophilus Probiotic
- Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic
- Florastor
- Hyperbiotics PRO-15
- Physician’s Choice Probiotics
Review of the Best Gut Health Supplements on the Market
1. YourBiology Gut+: Best Probiotic Supplement for Women
Gut+ from YourBiology is one of the best probiotic supplements of 2022, thanks to its powerful formulation and high CFU count. Gut+ is designed specifically for women and includes a perfect combination of premium bacterial strains that work together to support women’s gut health.
Health Benefits
Here are the benefits of taking Gut+ from YourBilogy.
Less Bloating – Gut+ contains bacterial strains that help your body break down food and promote better digestion. This means less bloating, less gas, and a happier gut.
Weight Loss – Probiotics can help support your weight loss journey by helping to curb appetite, break down food more effectively, and improve bowel movements.
Reduce Stress – YourBiology Gut+ can help improve serotonin levels. This results in less stress, more good vibes, and better immune health.
Better Skin – Gut+ includes a probiotic strain called L. paracasei. This probiotic strain has been shown to help protect our skin barrier for a more youthful, glowing appearance.
IBS Relief – The Gut+ probiotic supplement works to combat IBS symptoms for healthier and easier restroom visits.
Balanced Vaginal Flora – The Gut+ formula for women helps to address yeast overgrowth and restores vaginal flora balance. Less yeast infections equals a happier and healthier you!
Probiotic Strains
YourBiology gut+ includes four specific probiotic strains:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus paracasei
Although some probiotic supplements include a more significant number of bacteria strains, many don’t match gut+’s 40 billion colony forming units (CFU). These formulated probiotics offer a range of benefits by balancing the gut microbiome, promoting healthy digestion, reducing inflammation, and supporting immunity.
What Sets YourBilogy Apart From Other Probiotic Supplements?
First of all, YourBiology is designed specifically for women to improve gut health. It includes probiotic bacteria strains that help with weight loss, vaginal flora, skin health, bloating, and more.
Secondly, Gut+ includes MAKtrek® marine polysaccharide complex. This patented ingredient helps to protect probiotics from being dissolved by stomach acid after ingestion. This allows the probiotics to have up to a 250 times better survival rate and absorption of good bacteria compared to standard gut health supplements.
Lastly, Gut+ includes a natural prebiotic fiber called fructooligosaccharide. The inclusion of this prebiotic helps nourish good gut bacteria so it can continue to thrive.
Women using YourBiology gut+ daily probiotics report feeling happier and lighter. They experience easier eliminations, less abdominal pain, clearer skin, and improved overall gut health.
Product Features
- One of the most effective gut health supplements for women on the market.
- A 40 billion CFU count provides your gut with the necessary beneficial bacteria.
- Prebiotic fiber provides these positive bacteria with nutrients to help them thrive.
- Probiology gut+ is shelf-stable, so there’s no need to refrigerate it.
- The patented MAKtrek® marine polysaccharide complex protects the probiotics from stomach acid to ensure they reach the gut.
- This dietary supplement is dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, GMO-free, and preservative-free.
- You can try Probiology gut+ risk-free with a 60-day trial and money-back guarantee.
- Probiology gut+ ships for free.
Click Here for the Lowest Price on YourBiology Gut+
2. Biotics 8: Best Gut Health Supplement for Men
Health and wellness brand Bauer Nutrition offers Biotics 8 to help men find digestive balance through daily supplementation of good bacteria and other helpful ingredients. Offering formulated probiotics for men, Biotics 8 encourages calmer digestion, increased immunity, improved mood, higher energy and focus levels, and better overall health. This daily probiotic provides quick relief from digestive issues with a fast-acting formula.
Probiotic Strains
Biotics 8 contains 20 billion CFUs from 10 strains of helpful bacteria. These strains include the following:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus fermentum
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Saccharomyces boulardii
This wide variety of bacteria provides a range of benefits. For example, Saccharomyces boulardii is particularly helpful in preventing diarrhea.
The Biotics 8 formula also includes other natural ingredients. These include:
- Vitamins B1, B7, B12, and D3.
- Prebiotic fiber.
- Digestive enzymes.
- Chicory root.
- Fiber.
Biotics 8 doesn’t just target digestive balance. Its many ingredients support men’s health, making it a well-rounded dietary supplement.
Highlighted Health Benefits
By taking this probiotic supplement daily, men can:
- Improve overall digestive health
- Encourage calmer digestion
- Reduce gas and bloating
- Promote immune health
- Reduce inflammation
- Increase energy levels
- Improve focus
- Improve mood
Men taking Biotics 8 supplements report easier digestion, less bloating, sharper focus, and more energy in their daily lives.
Product Features
- The Biotics 8 probiotic supplement is formulated specifically for men.
- This supplement provides 20 billion CPUs to promote a balanced gut microbiome.
- Prebiotic ingredients support beneficial bacteria by providing nutrients.
- This supplement consists of good bacteria strains and natural ingredients.
- Bauer Nutrition offers a 60-day money-back guarantee, so you can try it risk-free.
- The company ships its products for free to consumers around the world.
Click Here for the Lowest Price on Biotics 8
3. 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum: Top Rated Probiotic Pills for Digestive Health
1MD Nutrition is a health and wellness brand with a mission to provide consumers with high-quality products they can trust. 1MD Nutrition’s Complete Probiotics Platinum supplement offers another great option to support digestion and balanced gut bacteria. These probiotic supplements offer a wide range of benefits that promote better gut health.
Probiotic Strains
Eleven bacteria strains, including Bifidobacterium strains and Lactobacillus strains, provide a 51 billion CFU count. The bacteria strains include:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus.
- Bifidobacterium lactis.
- Bifidobacterium longum.
- Bifidobacterium bifidum.
- Lactobacillus planatrum.
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus.
- Lactobacillus casei.
- Lactobacillus sativarius.
- Lactobacillus gasseri.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
- LactoSpore®.
These bacteria strains find support from prebiotic ingredients and delayed-release vegetarian capsules that guarantee all 51 billion CFUs.
Highlighted Health Benefits
This probiotic offers many of the same benefits as those listed above. These include the following:
- Promotes a healthy gut with balanced good and bad bacteria.
- Supports the lining of the digestive system.
- Improves nutrient absorption during digestion.
- Reduces indigestion, gas, and bloating.
- Promotes regular eliminations.
- Supports immune function.
Reviewers who are taking Complete Probiotics Platinum report feeling better overall. They experience more regularity, calmer digestion, and better results than users of other daily probiotics.
Product Features
- Complete Probiotics Platinum is a scientifically formulated dietary supplement.
- Eleven strains of beneficial bacteria provide 51 billion CFUs to the gut.
- The beneficial bacteria get nutrients and support from Nutraflora® prebiotic fiber.
- The vegetarian capsule shields the healthy bacteria from digestive acids, ensuring the bacteria reach the intestines.
- These probiotic supplements are dairy-free, gluten-free, peanut-free, shellfish-free, and non-GMO.
- 1MD Nutrition offers a 90-day money-back guarantee, 30 days longer than the average trial period.
- Free shipping may be offered via a promo code, so check the top of the page for an offer banner.
Price
You can get a one-month supply of Complete Probiotics Platinum for $49.99 or save by buying in bulk. 1MD Nutrition also offers a subscription for these probiotic supplements, so you can pay a monthly fee to take advantage of lower prices, free shipping, and out-of-stock protection.
4. VitaPost Probiotic 40-Billion: High-Quality Probiotic Brand a Healthy Gut
Probiotic 40-Billion is a probiotic supplement by VitaPost, a health and wellness brand dedicated to providing consumers with high-quality supplements. Probiotic 40-Billion encourages a balanced gut to help consumers improve digestion, immunity, and overall health. Like Probiology gut+, these probiotic supplements offer a lot of quantity from just four high-quality bacteria strains.
Probiotic Strains
VitaPost chose each of the strains included in Probiotic 40-Billion based on proven value. Each strain provides a different health benefit, making this a very effective probiotic supplement despite having fewer strains than many other brands. Bacteria strains include:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus.
- Lactobacillus plantarum.
- Lactobacillus paracasei.
- Bifidobacterium lactis.
This daily probiotic offers comprehensive gastrointestinal health support by mixing bacteria of the Bifidobacterium species and Lactobacillus strains.
Highlighted Health Benefits
When taken as a daily supplement, these probiotics help to:
- Promote better overall gut health.
- Replenish the good bacteria in the gut.
- Encourage calm digestion.
- Support intestinal lining.
- Support immune health.
- Promote urinary tract health
- Promote skin health.
Consumers using these daily probiotics report less indigestion and improved overall gut health. They also enjoy the value of this product as it is more affordable than most competing probiotics.
Product Features
- Probiotics 40-Billion provides the gut with 40 billion CFUs via four high-quality strains.
- VitaPost prioritizes using high-quality ingredients to craft high-quality supplements.
- Probiotic 40-Billion is among the best probiotic supplements for its great value at only $35 per one-month supply.
We don’t recommend this probiotic supplement for consumers with food allergies. This supplement contains no allergens but is manufactured in a facility containing milk, egg, soy, nuts, wheat, and shellfish.
Price
A one-month supply of Probiotic 40-Billion costs $34.95, the second-best value on this list of the best probiotic supplements. You can save even more by buying in bulk; the most popular deal is the buy-three-get-one free offer.
5. BioTRUST Pro-X10: Top Recommended Gut Supplement with Prebiotics
BioTRUST Pro-X10 is a supplement containing probiotics and prebiotics. BioTRUST offers health and wellness products on its mission to provide customers with authentic and honest support. Users of Pro-X10 can be glad to know the company supports many charitable organizations, including No Kid Hungry®, Pencils of Promise®, and many more.
Probiotic Strains
Pro-X10 helps people achieve more balanced bacteria in the digestive tract for improved digestion, gut health, and immune health. The formula includes a 10 billion CFU count from several strains, including a patented probiotic strain that resists heat and acid. The strains in the Pro-X10 formula include the following:
- Bacillus subtilis (DE111®)
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
The formula also includes a patented prebiotic called PreforPro® to support the supplement’s good bacteria.
Highlighted Health Benefits
This probiotic supplement offers users the usual probiotic health benefits, including:
- Better bacteria balance in the gut.
- Improved nutrient absorption in the digestive system.
- Easier and more regular eliminations.
- Improved immune function.
- Lowered stress levels.
- A better mood.
Reviewers of Pro-X10 put their faith in BioTRUST because the supplements work. People taking this probiotic supplement report a reduction in bloating, constipation, and other digestive troubles.
Product Features
- Pro-X10 contains a 10 billion CPU count per serving to provide the gut with the good bacteria it needs to stay healthy.
- Next-gen prebiotic PreforPro supports the bacteria and encourages its growth.
- The patented probiotic Bacillus subtilis (DE111) provides a strain that can resist the body’s heat and acid.
- This supplement is advertised as soy, dairy, GMO, and gluten-free.
- You can try Pro-X10 risk-free for 60 days. If you don’t like it, get a 100% refund.
- Recurring orders of Pro-X10 ship for free.
Please note that although this product is advertised as gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free, the manufacturing facility may process these major allergens.
Price
Pro-X10 offers the best value compared to the other supplements on this list. One bottle contains a two-month supply and costs $49, making a one-month supply less than $25. Bulk and subscription prices are also available.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the host. They are often referred to as “friendly” or “good” bacteria because they promote a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive system. The most common types of probiotics belong to the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, although other species and strains can also be used.
Probiotics can be found in certain foods, such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods. They are also available as dietary supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Probiotic supplements typically contain specific strains of bacteria in concentrated amounts.
The health benefits attributed to probiotics include:
- Improved Digestive Health: Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can aid in digestion, prevent diarrhea, and alleviate symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Enhanced Immune Function: Probiotics can stimulate the production of immune cells, strengthen the gut barrier, and help fight off harmful bacteria, potentially reducing the risk of infections and supporting overall immune health.
- Management of Antibiotic-Related Issues: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to issues like antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Probiotics can help restore the gut microbiota and alleviate these problems.
- Potential Mental Health Benefits: Emerging research suggests a connection between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. Probiotics may influence this axis, potentially affecting mood, stress levels, and mental well-being.
It’s worth noting that while probiotics have shown promising results in certain areas, further research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action, optimal dosage, and specific applications for different health conditions. If you are considering using probiotics, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate strain and dosage for your needs.
How to Choose The Best Probiotic Supplements
Choosing the best probiotic supplement can be a bit challenging due to the wide variety of options available. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a probiotic supplement:
Strain Diversity: Look for a supplement that contains a variety of strains, as different strains have distinct health benefits. Aim for a supplement that includes multiple strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genera, as they are among the most well-researched.
Colony Forming Units (CFUs): CFUs indicate the number of live bacteria in each dose of the supplement. Higher CFU counts are not necessarily better, as the optimal dosage depends on the specific strain and the intended purpose. However, a general guideline is to choose a supplement with at least 1-10 billion CFUs per serving.
Shelf Stability: Probiotics are live organisms, so it’s important to choose a supplement that ensures the viability of the bacteria until the expiration date. Look for supplements that are labeled as “shelf-stable” or “freeze-dried” to ensure the bacteria remain alive and active.
Quality and Manufacturing Standards: When choosing the best probiotics, consider dietary supplements from reputable manufacturers that follow strict quality control standards. Look for supplements that have been independently tested by third-party organizations to verify the potency and purity of the product.
Strain Specificity: Some probiotic strains have been studied for specific health conditions. If you have a particular health concern, research which probiotic strains have been shown to be effective for that condition and choose a supplement that contains those strains.
Form and Dosage: Effective probiotic supplements are available in various forms such as capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Consider your personal preferences and convenience when choosing the form. Also, check the recommended dosage and frequency of use to ensure it aligns with your needs.
Expiration Date and Packaging: Check the expiration date on the package to ensure the supplement will remain viable until you finish using it. Additionally, choose the top gut health supplements that are packaged in a way that protects the bacteria from moisture, heat, and light, as these factors can reduce the effectiveness of the probiotics.
It’s important to note that individual responses to probiotic supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized recommendations based on your needs and medical history.
Benefits of Taking a Probiotic Supplement for Gut Health
Probiotic supplementation offers several benefits to overall digestive health when consumed in adequate amounts. Here are some of the commonly reported advantages of taking a daily probiotic supplement:
Digestive Health
Probiotics can promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for proper digestion. They may help alleviate symptoms of digestive disorders such as diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Immune Health
Probiotics play a role in supporting immune function. They can help stimulate the production of immune cells, regulate immune responses, and enhance the function of the gut barrier, which acts as a defense against harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Restore Gut Microbiome
Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems. The best probiotic supplement can help restore the gut microbiota and reduce the risk of these issues.
Vaginal Health
Certain probiotic strains, particularly Lactobacillus species, are beneficial for maintaining vaginal health. They can help prevent and manage vaginal infections, such as bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections, by restoring the natural balance of healthy bacteria in the vaginal area.
Mental Health
Emerging research suggests a connection between the gut and the brain, known as the gut-brain axis. Probiotics may influence this axis and potentially have a positive impact on mental health. While more research is needed, some studies have shown promising results in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Skin Health
Probiotics may have a beneficial effect on certain skin conditions, including eczema and acne. They can help modulate the immune response, reduce inflammation, and support a healthy skin microbiome.
It’s important to note that the specific benefits of probiotics can vary depending on the strain, dosage, and individual factors. Not all probiotic supplements are equal, and the efficacy of a specific strain for a particular health condition may vary. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable daily probiotic supplement and dosage for your specific needs.
Most Popular Probiotic Strains
- Lactobacillus acidophilus: This strain supports digestive health, aids in lactose digestion, and enhances immune function. It’s commonly found in yogurt and fermented foods.
- Bifidobacterium bifidum: Known for its ability to support a healthy gut microbiota, B. bifidum promotes digestive health and helps maintain a balanced immune response.
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus: This strain is effective in managing gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and has shown promise in supporting vaginal health.
- Bifidobacterium longum: B. longum helps maintain intestinal integrity, supports the immune system, and may alleviate symptoms of IBS and allergies.
- Saccharomyces boulardii: A beneficial yeast, S. boulardii helps combat antibiotic-associated diarrhea, prevents recurrence of Clostridium difficile infection, and supports a healthy gut ecosystem.
- Lactobacillus plantarum: This versatile strain supports digestive health, immune function, and may have anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for a range of conditions.
- Streptococcus thermophilus: Widely used in dairy fermentation, S. thermophilus aids lactose digestion, promotes gut health, and supports a healthy immune system.
- Bifidobacterium breve: B. breve aids in the digestion of complex carbohydrates, supports immune function, and may alleviate symptoms of IBS and allergies.
- Lactobacillus casei: Known for its ability to survive the harsh conditions of the digestive tract, L. casei supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiota.
- Lactobacillus reuteri: This strain has been studied for its potential to alleviate colic in infants, support oral health, and promote a balanced immune response.
These strains are among the most well-researched and commonly used in probiotic supplements, offering a range of health benefits for digestive, immune, and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions about Probiotics
What is the most effective form of probiotic?
The most effective form of probiotic varies depending on the specific needs and preferences of an individual. However, encapsulated probiotic supplements are generally considered effective as they protect the bacteria from stomach acid, ensuring higher survival rates and delivery to the intestines for maximum benefits.
Should I take probiotics in the morning or at night?
The timing of probiotic consumption is not critical and can be based on personal preference. Some individuals find it convenient to take probiotics with breakfast or before bed. It’s more important to take them consistently at the same time each day to maintain a regular intake.
What’s the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They can help restore or maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for beneficial bacteria already present in the gut. They promote the growth and activity of these bacteria, helping to enhance gut health and overall well-being. Essentially, probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria, while prebiotics nourish and support their growth.
Do probiotic supplements have any side effects?
Probiotic supplements are generally considered safe for most people. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects like gas, bloating, or digestive discomfort when starting probiotics. These effects are usually temporary and subside as the body adjusts. People with compromised immune systems or serious underlying health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before taking probiotic supplements.
What probiotics are good for UTIs?
Certain probiotics have shown potential in supporting urinary tract health. Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus crispatus, and Lactobacillus fermentum are among the strains that have been studied for their ability to promote a healthy urinary tract and potentially reduce the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). However, individual responses may vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable for personalized recommendations.
What is the most effective probiotic strain?
Research suggests that Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus strains offer the most consistent benefits, although every person is different and strains affect people differently. Lactobacillus rhamnosus, for example, promotes a healthy immune system while other strains have other effects.
The probiotic strain that will be most effective for you depends on many factors, including what digestive problems you suffer from, how many probiotics you get in your everyday diet, and how effective the formula is at protecting the live bacteria from the acid in your stomach.
What are the signs that you need probiotics?
Signs that you may benefit from probiotics include digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea, recurrent yeast infections or urinary tract infections, weakened immune system, antibiotic use, food intolerances, skin problems like acne or eczema, and a history of gastrointestinal conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Who should NOT take probiotics?
Some individuals who should exercise caution or avoid probiotics include those with compromised immune systems, critically ill patients, individuals with a history of pancreatitis or organ failure, and those with a risk of bacterial translocation. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice before starting probiotics in these cases.
How fast do probiotics start to work?
How fast probiotics begin to work depends on the person. For some, it only takes a few days of supplementation to notice digestive relief or improvement, but for others, it may take up to a month. If you’ve just begun taking a probiotic supplement and don’t believe it’s working, keep taking it for at least two to three weeks to provide your gut the chance to regain balance and improve.
Can probiotic supplements help with weight loss?
While probiotics may have some influence on weight regulation, their impact on weight loss alone is limited. Some studies suggest certain strains could help with modest reductions in body weight and fat mass, but lifestyle factors like diet and exercise remain the key factors in achieving sustainable weight loss. Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between probiotics and weight management.
Summary of the Top Recommended Probiotic Supplements
- YourBiology gut+: Best for vaginal health, weight management, and bloating
- Biotics 8: Best for testosterone support, immunity, and healthy digestive system
- 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum: Most effective probiotic supplement for whole body health
- VitaPost Probiotic 40-Billion: Great for digestive and immune function
- BioTRUST Pro-X10: Non-GMO, gluten-free, and soy-free
- Lactobacillus gasseri
- Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic
- Florastor
- Hyperbiotics PRO-15
- Physician’s Choice Probiotics
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