What are Probiotic Supplements?
Probiotics are healthy microorganisms that line your intestinal walls, promoting balance in the microbiome and improving digestive health. The result is more regular bowel movements and the elimination of symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. According to Lisa Richard “taking probiotics can improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and potentially aid in weight loss. Some popular probiotic supplements include Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.”
The market is full of many and varied probiotic supplements containing different strains as well as additional organic ingredients to improve gut wellness.
By 2023, probiotic supplement sales are projected to exceed 64 billion dollars (source).
Some are more potent and effective than others, but how do you know the difference? Learn how to select the best brand, and discover our top choices for the best natural probiotics on the market.
Probiotic supplements can “restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut” after taking antibiotics, says Frances Largeman-Roth, R.D.N., a New York City-based nutrition expert.
Learn what to look for when shopping for a probiotic. Do probiotics really work? We reviewed popular brands to find the best probiotic supplement. Clinically Studied. 3rd Party Tested.
Doctors and dietitians explain how to make sure you’re buying a quality option.
Best Probiotics Supplements
- Multi-GI 5
- Morning Complete
- Gundry MD PrebioThrive
- ProPlant Complete Shake
- Primal Plants
- Gundry MD Lectin Shield
- Energy Renew
- Bio Complete 3
- Total Restore
- 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum
- EnzymeMD
- BiomeMD
- 1MD GutMD
- 1MD BalanceMD
- Ritual Synbiotic+ Probiotic Capsules
- Culturelle® Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules
- HUM Gut Instinct
A quick look at the best probiotic supplements
| Best Probiotic for Long-term Gut Health | Multi-GI 5 |
| Best for Energy | Morning Complete |
| Best Prebiotic | Gundry MD PrebioThrive |
| Best Plant-Based Protein Shake | ProPlant Complete Shake |
| Best on a Budget | Primal Plants |
| Best for Digestive Health | Gundry MD Lectin Shield |
| Best for Immune Health | Energy Renew |
| Best for Overall Health | Bio Complete 3 |
| Best for Mood | Total Restore |
| Best for Healthy Bowel Movements | Complete Probiotics Platinum |
| Best for Gut Health | EnzymeMD |
| Best for Vaginal Health | BiomeMD |
| Best Combination | 1MD GutMD |
| Best On the Go | 1MD BalanceMD |
| Best For Balanced Gut | Ritual Synbiotic+ Probiotic Capsules |
| Best For Men | Culturelle® Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules |
| Best Vegan Gut Health Support | HUM Gut Instinct |
It’s important to note that not every probiotic supplement will work for everyone, and your results may vary.
Best Probiotic Supplements For Gut Health and How to Choose
With a wide range of natural probiotics available on the market, selecting the right one for your gut health can seem daunting. To make the process easier, Dr. Edmond Hakimi, a dual-board-certified Internal Medicine physician, shares expert advice on what to look for when choosing probiotics:
- Check for specific strains that match your needs. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG supports digestion, while Bifidobacterium longum may boost immune health.
- Look at the colony-forming units (CFUs): 1–10 billion CFUs per dose is typically sufficient for general health, while certain conditions may require higher doses.
- Ensure quality testing: Look for certifications like USP or NSF to confirm the product has been tested for safety and accuracy.
- Consider storage requirements: Some probiotics need refrigeration, while others are shelf-stable. Choose what works best for your lifestyle.
Dr. Hakimi reassures that “choosing the right supplement doesn’t have to be overwhelming” when you follow these simple steps.
We worked with a team of medical and digestive system experts to determine a collection of the best natural probiotics on the market today. You have plenty of choice, allowing you to select the best supplement for you and your gut health.
According to nutritional expert Frances Largeman-Roth, R.D.N., “Taking a probiotic supplement can help restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut (9).”
To help you out, here’s a list of expert-recommended probiotic supplements you can buy online today. Check out the top probiotic brands on the market.
One of the best probiotics for gut health, Multi-GI 5 contains 12 potent digestive ingredients and strains which balance the gut microbiota, enhance the GI lining, promote healthy microflora, and elevate overall gut health. In addition, it can suppresses appetite and cravings, ideally leading to weight loss. It gives you a giant boost of energy which can make you more productive and help you burn more calories.
Pros
- Multi-GI 5 gives you more physical energy.
- It supports a strong immune system.
- There’s a 90-day satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- Each scoop contains a few calories and carbohydrates.
- Strawberry lemonade is the only flavor.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Gasseri, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Casei, Bacillus Coagulans, Magnesium BHB, Licorice Root, Black Pepper, Zinc-Carnosine
Manufacturer:
Unify Health Labs
Morning Complete is a powder drink supplement which tastes like apple cinnamon. It has potent probiotic and prebiotic benefits, balancing the gut microbiome and supporting regularity. In addition, it contains a wealth of healthy superfoods.
It can eliminate symptoms like gas and diarrhea, and it has numerous other health benefits like speeding up the metabolism and promoting weight loss. This supplement can strengthen the immune system, balance blood sugar levels, and provide your body with some of the key nutrients it requires.
Pros
- It promotes cellular function and supports liver health.
- Morning Complete speeds up the metabolism and burns fat.
- This supplement can balance blood sugar levels.
Cons
- There is only one flavor, which is apple cinnamon.
- Some users may prefer capsules to a powder drink.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bacillus Coagulans, Bacillus Longum, Bacillus Bifidum, Streptococcus Thermophilus, Green Tea, Pomegranate Extract, Turmeric, Black Pepper
Manufacturer:
ActivatedYou
Gundry MD PrebioThrive is a powder drink supplement which contains 5 potent prebiotics. The formula aims to feed healthy gut bacteria, helping it proliferate and balancing the microbiome. This promotes a healthy digestive tract and leads to smoother bowel movements.
It can also decrease symptoms like gas, bloating, and constipation. In addition to improving digestion, Gundry MD PrebioThrive can provide you with additional energy.
Pros
Cons
- The formula contains milk, which some users can’t consume.
- It’s unflavored, which may not be very tasty.
Key Ingredients:
Organic Flaxseed, Organic Acacia Gum, Organic Agave Inulin, Organic Guar Gum, Galacto-oligosaccharides
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
ProPlant Complete Shake is a chocolate-flavored powder beverage packed with protein. It supports digestive wellness, and it can also fill you up and suppress your appetite, so you don’t overeat or snack. The supplement provides you with energy which can help you exercise for longer and burn calories. In addition to promoting digestive health and assisting with weight loss, it also strengthens the immune system.
Pros
- It can improve your mood.
- ProPlant Complete Shake promotes healthy digestion.
- This product supports heart health.
Cons
- ProPlant Complete Shake is somewhat expensive.
- Each serving has 100 calories and 9 grams of carbohydrates.
Key Ingredients:
Spirulina, Hemp Protein, Flaxseed, Cocoa Powder, Stevia
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
Primal Plants is a green apple flavored drink supplement composed of 4 blends: superfood greens, digestive support, metabolic enhancement, and probiotics. It can promote a healthy gut microbiota and support digestion, and it can also speed up metabolism and help with fat burning and weight loss.
It provides you with additional energy so you can be more active. In addition, the product also improves skin health and appearance.
Pros
- It supports heart health.
- Primal Plants is full of rich nutrients and antioxidants.
- This product may help with fat burning and weight loss.
Cons
- Primal Plants is an expensive product.
- Green Apple is the only flavor option.
Key Ingredients:
Bacillus Coagulans, Bifidobacterium Lactis, Lactobacillus Reuteri, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Bromelain, Chicory Fruit, Ginger Root, Green Tea, Turmeric, Bitter Melon Fruit Extract, Mulberry Leaf Extract, Spinach, Kale, Broccoli
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
Gundry MD Lectin Shield is a multipurpose organic supplement which protects your body from harmful plant proteins called lectins. This supports digestive health, regular bowel movements, and it can help eliminate symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. In addition, it is one of the best probiotic supplements for weight loss. It works by preventing cravings for food high in lectins. It’s somewhat expensive, but this is a strong formula.
Pros
- It can remove unhealthy toxins from your body.
- Gundry MD Lectin Shield strengthens the digestive tract.
- This supplement can strengthen the immune system.
Cons
- It contains crustacean shellfish, which some users can’t consume.
- Gundry MD Lectin Shield is an expensive supplement.
Key Ingredients:
Mucin, Okra, D-Mannose, Sodium Alginate, Bladderwrack, N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine, MSM, Larch Arabinogalactan
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
Gundry MD Energy Renew is suitable for any adult, but it’s particularly helpful for people who are getting older and may be low on energy. It boosts your metabolism, which can help burn fat and take off some weight. In addition, it has brain benefits like mental clarity and alertness. Gundry MD Energy Renew is rich in nutrients and promotes overall health and immunity.
Pros
- There’s a 90-day money-back guarantee.
- Gundry MD Energy Renew supports a healthy metabolism.
- This product can improve exercise recovery.
Cons
- This is an expensive product.
- Passion Fruit is the only flavor option available.
Key Ingredients:
Amla, Beet Root Extract, Hibiscus Flower Extract, Goji, Cranberry, Mangosteen, Acai, Acerola, N-Acetyl L-Carnitine, D-Ribose, Pomegranate, Strawberry, Maqui Berry, Jaboticaba, Schizandra Berry
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
Gundry MD Bio Complete 3 is a total digestive wellness product which includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. It promotes optional gut health, regular bowel movements, and eliminates symptoms like gas and bloating. In addition, it helps suppress cravings and burn fat, leading to rapid weight loss.
Pros
- Gundry MD Bio Complete 3 provides you with additional energy.
- It supports a strong immune system.
- This supplement can eliminate fatigue.
Cons
- The dosage is 4 capsules per day, which some users will find difficult.
- The cost of the supplement is high.
Key Ingredients:
CoreBiome, Sunfiber, Bacillus Coagulans
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
Gundry MD Total Restore is an organic supplement designed to promote optional digestive health and strengthen the lining of the gut. A stronger gut can help prevent craving and promote weight loss, alleviate fatigue, and give you energy. This supplement also improves brain health by elevating mental focus, and it can boost your mood.
Pros
- It’s rich in nutrients which support health and wellness.
- This supplement can promote an improved mood.
- Gundry MD Total Restore supports joint health.
Cons
- Gundry MD Total Restore is expensive.
- It contains crustacean shellfish, which some users can’t eat.
Key Ingredients:
Grape Seed, Licorice, Wormwood, Cloves, Cinnamon, Black Pepper, Grapefruit, Maitake Mushroom, Magnesium, Zinc, L-Glutamine, N-Acetyl D-Glucosamine, Berberine, Organic Strawberry, Blueberry, Raspberry, Marshmallow
Manufacturer:
Gundry MD
With 11 powerful probiotic strains included, 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum provides the intestines with a wealth of probiotic microorganisms to eliminate bad bacteria and balance the gut microflora. The result is healthy bowel movements and a decrease in symptoms like gas and diarrhea. 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum is a powerful formula which should promote overall digestive health.
Pros
- The supplement is recommended by a top gastroenterologist.
- It helps with nutrient digestion and absorption.
- 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum supports a strong immune system.
Cons
- It contains rice flour, which some users can’t consume.
- The supplement has probiotics, but no other organic ingredients.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Bulgaricus, Lactobacillus Gasseri, Lactobacillus Salivarius, Baccilus Coagulans, Lactobacillus Rhamnoses, Bifidobacterium Lactis, Bifidobacterium Longum, Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Manufacturer:
1MD
This formula contains 18 potent digestive enzymes which help break down the nutrients, so they are easier to digest. It can quickly get rid of unpleasant digestive symptoms like gas and diarrhea and promote healthy bowel movements. Dr. David Kahana is the renowned gastroenterologist who developed this product, and he stands by its ability to promote optimal digestive health.
Pros
- It starts working immediately to reduce digestive symptoms.
- 1MD EnzymeMD promotes long-term gut health benefits.
- The product contains no harmful additives or preservatives.
Cons
- Results will vary for different users.
- This is a popular item which sometimes goes out of stock.
Ingredients: Papain, Bromelain, Lipase, Maltase, Lactase, Protease, Alpha Amylase, Cellulase, Invertase, Hemicellulase, Beta-Glucinase
Manufacturer: 1MD
Price: $42.99 one bottle, one-time purchase, $35.99 one bottle, subscription. There are further discounts for bulk purchases.
1MD BiomeMD is a potent formula which includes 14 powerful strains of probiotics. It supports gut health and a strong microbiome and helps with nutrient absorption. This supplement promotes regular bowel movements and very rapidly eliminates symptoms like gas, bloating, and diarrhea. It defends the gut from harm and eases gastrointestinal stress.
Pros
- A board certified gastroenterologist developed 1MD BiomeMD.
- It helps with nutrient digestion and absorption.
- 1MD BiomeMD improves immune system function.
Cons
- It contains milk, with many users can’t consume.
- The product would be better with added organic digestive health ingredients.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus Plantarum, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Gasseri, Lactobacillus Casei, Lactobacillus Salivarius, Bifidobacterium Longum, Bifidobacterium Lactis, Bifidobacterium Bifidum
Manufacturer:
1MD
Price:
$49.99 one bottle, one-time purchase, $34.99 one bottle, subscription. You can get further discounts on bulk orders.
1MD GutMD is a formula designed specifically to support digestive health and wellness. This gut health supplement enriches the intestinal lining, strengthens the gut barrier, helps with nutrient absorption, and nourishes the microbiome.
It also defends on the gut from environmental threats and strengthens the immune system. A number of our experts picked out this brand as one of the best probiotic supplements for gut health.
Pros
- 1MD GutMD is doctor-formulated.
- The ingredients are clinically researched.
- This supplement promotes optimal gut health.
Cons
- It contains milk, which some users can’t consume.
- The dosage is 3 capsules per day.
Key Ingredients:
L-Glutamine, Tahl Gum, Licorice Root Extract, Human Milk Oligosaccharides
Manufacturer:
1MD
Price:
$39.99 one bottle, one-time purchase, $31.99 one bottle, subscription. You can get further discounts on bulk orders.
1MD BalanceMD is a digestive health formula which comes highly recommended by some of our experts. It’s a mix of probiotics, digestive enzymes, and other organics which promote a healthy gut and vaginal microbiota and improved digestion.
In addition, it can help reduce symptoms like gas and bloating. The benefits begin almost immediately, and you should expect full long-term results within 3 months.
Pros
- All of the ingredients are naturally sourced.
- The manufacturer is highly reputable.
- A team of physicians designed the supplement.
Cons
- It has tree nuts and rice flour, which some users can’t eat.
- Results will vary for different users.
Key Ingredients:
Protease, Cellulase, Black Walnut Hulls Powder, Wormwood Leaf Powder, Oregano Leaf, Reishi Mushroom, Anise Seed, Caprylic Acid, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Aloe Vera, Larch Arabinogalactan
Manufacturer:
1MD
Price:
$42.99 one bottle, one-time purchase, $35.99 one bottle, subscription. You can get further discounts on bulk orders.
Synbiotic+ is an all-in-one formula that combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to support a balanced gut microbiome. The formula is traceable, featuring 11 billion CFUs and two of the world’s most clinically studied probiotic strains. Using innovative nested capsules with delayed-release technology, these probiotics are designed to reach the colon, an optimal environment for their survival and growth.
Each bottle includes a minty tab for a more enjoyable daily gut support experience, and the moisture-controlled technology ensures the probiotic strain remains protected without the need for refrigeration.
Pros
- Made from traceable ingredients that can be verified for safety.
- It is a vegan and non-GMO product.
- This product is third-party tested.
Cons
- It is only available online for purchase.
- There is a possibility of interaction with some medications.
Key Ingredients:
Prebiotic PreforPro, Probiotics BB-12 and LGG, Postbiotic Corbiome Tributyrin
Manufacturer:
Ritual
Culturelle® Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules assist in reducing occasional diarrhea, gas, and bloating. They work naturally with your body to support digestion and immune defenses, minimizing travel-related digestive issues. These capsules provide a clinically proven effective dose of 10 billion CFUs for healthy digestion.
Pros
Cons
- It may interact with other medications or supplements.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Inulin
Manufacturer:
Culturelle
Hum Gut Instinct is a strong probiotic designed for a balanced gut. With 10 strains, it helps create a healthy gut environment for better digestion. These probiotics are like friendly bacteria that maintain a healthy digestive system, fostering a balanced gut. Specifically, Lactobacillus bacteria contribute to good digestion and enhanced immunity, while a mix of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains supports a diverse and healthy gut microbiome.
Pros
- Supports the growth of good bacteria.
- Improves overall wellness.
- It is free from allergens like gluten and soy.
Cons
- Individual experiences may vary.
Key Ingredients:
Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium longum
Manufacturer:
HUM
Please note that the writer or reviewer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
It’s important to note that not every probiotic supplements will work for everyone, and your results may vary.
Mentioned above are the best probiotic supplements for gut health, reviewed by Dermspotlight Expert Team.
What Factors Lead to Poor Gut Health?
There are a whole host of factors that can contribute to poor gut health, including chronic stress, a poor diet, intolerance to certain foods, medical conditions like diabetes, or imbalances in the gut bacteria. Hormonal imbalance or an endocrine issue can often affect the digestive system, as can abdominal surgery.
How Do Probiotic Gut Health Supplements Work?
These supplement include various different strains, depending on the product. Generally speaking, these are healthy strains of bacteria which line the intestine walls, destroying bad bacteria and promoting a healthy microbiome.
This helps promote regular bowel movements and eliminate symptoms like gas and diarrhea. An article published in Tropical Life Sciences Research discussed the best health features of probiotics (1).
However, specific strains have other benefits, including lowering cholesterol, decreasing anxiety, supporting immune health, and decreasing the risk of developing certain gastrointestinal conditions.
Probiotics are high in antioxidants, which eliminate free radicals and lower oxidative stress. This can repair damage to the digestive tract and protect it from potential harm. They have anti-inflammatory agents which can decreases gastrointestinal swelling and bloating.
Are probiotics useful for weight loss? “Many probiotic supplements include additional ingredients like fiber, which helps absorb liquid from the intestines and promote more regular bowel movements. It may also fill up your stomach, suppressing appetite and helping with weight loss”. The Mayo Clinic discusses why dietary fiber is essential for a healthy diet (2).
Probiotic Dosage
Always speak with a health care professional before adding a supplement to your routine to ensure that the supplement is appropriate for your individual needs and which dosage to take.
Probiotic supplements typically range from 1 to 10 billion CFUs, while some contain up to 50 billion CFUs. According to the NIH, higher CFUs do not necessarily correlate to improved effectiveness and better health outcomes. (source)
What to look for in a Probiotic Supplement
Here are some of the primary active probiotic strains:
Bacillus
This strain can enhance digestion and promote a healthier gut microbiota in human beings and animals. They have antimicrobials which kill damaging bacteria, and they support a strong immune system (3). An article in the Journal of Food Science and Technology examined the importance of the gastrointestinal life cycle of bacillus for probiotic functionality.
Lactobacillus
These are lactic acid bacteria which line the small intestines and vagina, killing bad bacteria and promoting digestive health (4). In addition, they assist in the absorption of minerals in the body. An article in the Journal of Clinical Pathology discussed the mechanisms and therapeutic effectiveness of Lactobacilli (5).
Bifidobacterium
This strain exists in the microbiota, promoting digestive health and eliminating bad bacteria. One of their main roles is to digest fiber, and they also play a key role in preventing infections. An article in Frontiers in Microbiology discussed the role of this strain in the human intestines (6).
How to choose the best probiotic supplement?
Before you select a probiotic to purchase, it’s important to do your own evaluation of the brand. These are some of the key features to keep in mind when making your selection:
- Ingredients – Probiotic supplements contain a number of different strains, each of which has a different purpose in gut health. There may also be other organic ingredients which promote digestion like fibers. A good probiotic supplement should have at least 1 billion CFU or higher for each dose. Research the ingredients carefully to make sure the product is right for you. According to Dietitian Lauren Manaker, “It’s important to make sure that any probiotics that you buy contain the strains your body needs and in the right quantities (8).”
- Safety – Ensure that there are not potentially harmful chemical or artificial additives, which could lead to side effects. In addition, make sure the manufacturer follows strict safety guidelines, ideally GMP, and produces the products in an FDA-registered facility.
- Manufacturer – It’s always best to purchase from a known and reputable manufacturer, as they are more likely to be trustworthy. Certainly, look into the background of the company when evaluating products.
- Reviews – Customer reviewers are a great source of information about a supplement, its benefits, and its limitations. Read through a number of reviews before you make your final choice.
- Satisfaction Guarantee – Any company which has faith in its product will give you enough time to try it out before deciding if it really works for you. Look for a brand that has at least a 30-60 day guarantee.
- Cost – These supplements come in a range of prices, with the average being somewhere from $20-40. Compare the cost of different brands with what they offer to decide whether a supplement is worth it.
- Product Comparison – Do look at a number of different brands and compare them in terms of cost, ingredients, benefits, guarantee, and other relevant features.
- Drink Water – It’s important to take in enough fluids during the day. One of the symptoms of dehydration is constipation, so you want to make sure you take in fluids through fruits and veggies, as well as water rand other beverages.
- Limit Stress – Stress can lead to many physical issues, and some of them are constipation, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms. If you work on decreasing your anxiety, your gut health should improve. Consider taking some time off, spending more time with family and friends, participating in a zoom yoga or meditation class, writing in a journal, or seeking therapy.
- Modify Your Diet – Eat whole foods that are healthy and do not contain sugar, processed items, or unhealthy fats. These are detrimental to your digestive system and are better left in the past.Try some of the best probiotic foods, like yogurt, miso, kefir, and pickles. Consume plenty of fiber to promote regularity and omega-3 fatty acids to help the absorption of nutrients. Include probiotic fruits and probiotic vegetables.
- Exercise – Working out on a regular basis can give digestive health a boost, by assisting in pushing the food through the intestines. It can ease constipation and may also decrease inflammation. According to Sergii Putsov “Exercise orchestrates a symphony within the gut, cultivating a diverse microbiome and laying the foundation for robust gut health. Physical activity helps the good bacteria in your gut grow. Beyond digestion, exercise ignites the metabolic furnace, sustaining an elevated burn rate of calories long after the sweat has dried.”
- Moderate Smoking and Drinking – Smoking and drinking can have a detrimental effect on digestion. If you’re having gut issues, it’s best to try to limit or even quit these habits so as not to exacerbate your gut. The good news is quitting can effectively reduce your symptoms.
- Sleep Well – Getting a quality sleep is important for overall health and cognitive functioning, mood, and it also plays a key role in gut health. It’s very important to get an adequate, quality rest every night.A study in mice published in PLOS ONE found that disruption of the circadian rhythm affected the intestinal microbiota (7).
What Are Some Natural Ways to Enhance Digestive Health?
Probiotics are very helpful in supporting digestive health. Alongside taking a supplement, there are also some lifestyle modifications you can make to improve your gut wellness. Consider incorporating some of these into your routine:
What are the Benefits of Taking a Probiotic Supplement?
Taking probiotics can offer several health benefits:
Improved Digestive Health
Probiotics, the “good” bacteria, help restore a healthy balance in the gut. This promotes better digestion and can alleviate problems like diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.
Enhanced Immune Function
Supporting a healthy gut microbiome with probiotics can strengthen overall immunity. This reduces the risk of infections and enhances the body’s ability to defend against harmful pathogens.
Reduced Inflammation
Probiotics have been proven to lower inflammation in the body, which is linked to chronic diseases. By rebalancing gut bacteria, probiotics contribute to reducing inflammation levels.
Support for Weight Loss
Some studies suggest that specific probiotics may aid in weight loss and prevent weight gain. They influence the body’s energy regulation and fat storage mechanisms.
Heart Health Benefits
Probiotics may help lower “bad” LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, both risk factors for heart disease. Additionally, they contribute to overall heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Potential Mental Health Support
Emerging research indicates a connection between the gut microbiome and mental health. Probiotics may play a role in alleviating symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Probiotics Support Radiant Skin
Probiotics are known for their ability to balance the gut microbiome, which has a profound impact on skin health. A growing body of research indicates that a healthy gut can lead to clearer, more radiant skin by reducing inflammation and improving nutrient absorption.
Dr. Stephen Bracci, MD, emphasizes the importance of gut health in achieving youthful skin:
“Prebiotics and probiotics play a vital role in maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, which can improve skin appearance, a key interest for my patients seeking youthful and vibrant skin. My practice has seen patients benefit from improved skin tone when they incorporate these into their diet. When choosing a prebiotic or probiotic supplement, it’s crucial to look for products with clinically-validated strains and a high CFU count.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below, we answer some of the most common questions about probiotic supplements:
Q: Can gut health help you lose weight?
A: According to Dr Kevin Huffman, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and a board-certified bariatric physician, “A healthy gut equals healthy weight and an easier time managing metabolism. With trillions of bacteria and other microbes in the gut microbiome, it’s no question that digestion, immune function and metabolism can be affected by these microscopic microbes.
When an imbalance, dubbed dysbiosis, occurs, it may be linked to weight gain and obesity, and rectifying gut health may offer an additional avenue to weight loss. Adding more fiber to the mix, eating fermented foods and probiotic supplementation can help.”
Q: Do Probiotic Gut Health Supplements Work?
In the words of NYU Langone Health gastroenterologist Roshini Rajapaksa, M.D. “The last several years have seen an explosion of research on the importance of the microbiome and the many health benefits associated with a balanced one. Probiotic supplements offer a way to help maintain this balance (10).”
Q: Where Can I Buy Probiotic Supplements?
A: Generally speaking, probiotic supplements are for sale from a number of online retailers as well as in shops like pharmacies and health food stores. For a specific probiotic, you have to research the brand online.
Q: What is the Most Effective Probiotic Supplement?
A: In this article, we presented you with 14 of our favorite probiotic brands and included detailed information about each. They are all very effective supplements, and we would recommended that you select one of them based on your preference and the information given.
Q: Can Probiotic Supplements Cause Bloating?
A: It’s possible that you may have some bloating, diarrhea, and other mild digestive symptoms in the first couple of days after taking a probiotic supplement, however, these will disappear once the product cleanses your system.
Q: Are Probiotic Supplements Safe?
A: Probiotics alone are safe and may only lead to mild digestive symptoms for a couple of days after taking them. However, for any product you purchase it’s important to look at the entire ingredients list including inactive substances to ensure there are no harmful chemical or artificial additives.
It’s also crucial to look into the safety practices of the manufacturer. Ideally they should product their products in an FDA-approved facility using GMP standards.
Q: Can Probiotic Supplements Cause Acne?
A: The vast majority of the time, probiotics do not cause acne and may even help eliminate it. If you have a gut infection while on probiotics, one of the effects could be breaking out in acne. If this happens, stop taking them until you resolve the issue.
Q: Who Needs Probiotic Supplements?
A: Probiotic supplements are suitable for any adult who wants to improve their overall digestive health, or for those who are going through a bout of symptoms like diarrhea or bloating and want to resolve it. These are for users who are looking for a natural, organic solution rather than medication from a physician.
Q: Are Probiotic Supplements Vegan?
A: Some brands are vegan, but not every probiotic product suits this diet. Make sure to check the label to ensure that this is a brand you can consume.
Q: What Side Effects Can Probiotic Supplements Give You?
A: Most of the probiotic supplements are safe to use. Some common symptoms of those who have negative reactions to probiotic supplements are as follows: Diarrhea, Headache, Constipation, Rash or hives, Itching, Bloating, and gas.
You should consult with your physician before taking a gut health probiotic supplement if you have any types of chronic illness or are on medications.
Start with small doses after consulting your doctor and slowly increase to the recommended dosage.
Q: Is it worth taking a Probiotic supplement?
A: According to The NHS, “There’s some evidence that probiotics may be helpful in some cases, such as helping prevent diarrhoea when taking antibiotics, and helping to ease some symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)”.
Q: Are Probiotic Supplements Necessary?
A: No, they are not actually necessary, because the probiotic bacteria is a natural part of your microbiome and is there to balance the gut flora and promote proper digestion. However, sometimes the gut gets out of balance, and it’s helpful to take a probiotic product to restore balance to the microbiome.
Gail Cresci, Ph.D., is a registered dietitian and microbiome researcher. She explains that probiotics, “can help us digest food we can’t digest [naturally]. We don’t have enzymes to break down and absorb certain fibers. Probiotics release metabolites, which are beneficial byproducts that help us digest them (11).”
Q: Does emptying your bowels help you lose weight?
A: According to Sophia Bennet, an expert in nutritional health, “Emptying your bowels can lead to a temporary decrease in weight due to the removal of waste material from the body. However, this weight loss is not related to fat loss and does not contribute to long-term weight management.”
The Bottom Line
On the search for the most effective probiotic supplement, we found 16 high-quality brands that we would recommend to our customers without question. The best probiotics for gut health include a rich collection of strains, as well as fibers and other ingredients which support digestive wellness.
Our best probiotics for gut health are brands with reputable manufacturers, which offer digestive benefits for users including easing inflammation, decreasing symptoms like diarrhea and constipation, and promoting healthy bowel movements.
The best natural probiotics are also full of antioxidants which promote overall health and strengthen immunity. We’d advise you to select from among the choices we presented, but it’s also important to do your own research to make sure the brand is right for you.
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