Best Probiotic – A Complete Guide For Choosing The Best Probiotic Supplement
Probiotics have become an intimate part of our lives. There has been a lot of talk around probiotics these days. With so many advantages of probiotics, it is obvious for a user to get confused in selecting the best one.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are the friendly bacteria (and yeast) that reside in our gut.
The definition of probiotics according to Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the WHO (FAO/WHO):
“live microorganisms which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host (1)”
Probiotics generally help in digestion of the food and increasing the efficiency of nutrient absorption. Apart from digestion they help in reducing symptoms of IBS and leaky gut, help in weight loss, improve anxiety disorder, prevent infections (antimicrobial properties), boost immunity and help women in maintaining the health of their privates. They also help in reducing inflammation of the skin which can be useful in reducing acne.
Probiotics are also beneficial for kids in developing their digestive system and immunity. The interaction of gut microbiota with the central nervous system (CNS) is very strong and is bidirectional. It influences the CNS through neurotransmitters during specific states such as stress and anxiety disorders (2). This is popularly known as the gut-brain axis (GBA).
Why take probiotics?
There are many reasons when your stomach gets depleted from probiotics. Some major reasons include:
- Traveling
- Use of antibiotics
- Any major infections
- Bowel disorders (IBS, Leaky gut, etc.)
These are some of the reasons which diminish the numbers of probiotics. The resulting symptoms can be of varying levels. You can experience bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation or even mood disorders. It will also open a window for the opportunistic pathogens to invade the gut.
Rebalancing the gut probiotics is essential when the gut microbiome is disrupted. You can get probiotics from fermented foods or supplements. Some of the best-fermented foods are:
- Kefir
- Kombucha
- Sauerkraut
- Pickles
- Tempeh
- Kimchi
Fermented foods have a diverse number of probiotics. But the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) is uncertain with fermented foods. Also, not all fermented foods have probiotics. For a probiotic strain to show its efficacy it should reach the lower gut and colonize. If you take a little extra dose of those numbers, there is a certainty that they will reach the lower gut. This is acquired by taking probiotic supplements.
It does not indicate that fermented foods aren’t good. They are extremely good for providing different types of strains and are very tasty too.
Taking probiotic supplements is also easy. There are many products that provide different strains of bacteria with a high amount of CFUs.
Too much of CFUs isn’t always necessary for high colony-forming units. The ability of bacteria to reach the lower gut and colonize is strain specific. Some bacteria which can survive in acids of the gut (ex: Lactobacillus acidophilus) can colonize even when consumed in lower amounts.
How to choose the best probiotic supplement?
The first thing you need to consider while buying any probiotic supplement is to look for the bacterial strain/strains. The manufacturer must mention the name of the probiotic strains included in their product. A simple term ‘live and active’ does not necessarily make it a probiotic.
Not all probiotics have a similar function. Some probiotics help in relieving constipation (3) while some help in preventing diarrhea (4). Each strain will have a specific action. You must understand which probiotic is helpful in treating which condition. This will help in selecting the best probiotic supplement suited for you.
Below is the list of various probiotic strains and the conditions for which they are best suited for:
General Digestive health/GI Support/
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
L. Plantarum
L. fermentum
L. reuteri
L. helveticus
L. Brevis
Bifidobacterium lactis
B. longum
B. bifidum
B. breve
Streptococcus thermophilus
Diarrhea (acute or antibiotic-associated)
L. acidophilus
L. casei
L. paracasei
L. bulgaricus
L. infantis
Saccharomyces boulardii
Constipation
L. rhamnosus
B. longum
S. thermophilus
Vaginal health
L. acidophilus
L. rhamnosus
L. reuteri
Skin health/Acne/Anti-aging
L. acidophilus
L. plantarum
L. paracasei
B. breve
S. thermophilus
S. salivarius
Immunity
L. acidophilus
L. rhamnosus
L. Plantarum
B. brevis
L. salivarius
L. paracasei
L. gasseri
L. lactis
B. longum
B. bifidum
Cardiovascular health
L. acidophilus
L. reuteri
B. longum
Weight loss
L. rhamnosus
L. plantarum
L. paracasei
B. breve
B. lactis
Brain health
L. rhamnosus
L. casei
L. helveticus
B. longum
B. breve
B. infantis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Irritable Bowel Disease (IBD)
L. acidophilus
L. rhamnosus
L. bulgaricus
L. lactis
L. bifidum
L. infantis
Saccharomyces boulardii
Bacillus coagulans
Mood disorders/Anxiety/Depression
Bifidobacterium breve
B. longum
L. fermentum
L. reuteri
L. helveticus
L. plantarum
Mood disorders/Anxiety/Depression
L. acidophilus
L. rhamnosus
Lactobacillus Group
Lactobacillus is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria. They form one of the major parts of the human gut microbiome. Many species of Lactobacillus are probiotic and confer to health benefits. They are known for their resilience and can survive the harsh/acidic environment of the gut.
Many species of Lactobacillus are used in dairy industries as well as in probiotic supplements. They are used in combination with other probiotics to give a multitude of health benefits.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is one of the most widely used probiotic strains. It is also used in many supplements by various manufacturers. L. rhamnosus is mentioned as L. rhamnosus GG because. The suffix GG is attributed to the surnames of two scientists Sherwood Gorbach and Barry Goldwin who isolated it from human feces.
Since then, L. rhamnosus GG is widely studied for a better understanding of its impact on the host (human body). According to all researches, L. rhamnosus GG helps in digestive support to adults and children, helps in allergies and immunomodulatory functions (5).
L. rhamnosus GG is consumed in over countries. Finland and Sweden are the most popular countries whose per capita consumption of L. rhamnosus is very high.
Lactobacillus Plantarum
Lactobacillus Plantarum is the most versatile probiotic strain. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and acidic fluctuations. It can survive between 15 and 45 degrees Celsius of temperatures. However, its optimal temperature of growth is 40 degrees Celsius. It can also tolerate low pH (acidic) conditions.
L. Plantarum FH185 modulates the immune response and can prevent the damage reduction of T cells caused by Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) (6). It also has an anti-obesity effect and anti-microbial activity (7). It prevents opportunistic pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium.
Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus or simply Acidophilus is the most widely studied probiotic. It is also one of the oldest probiotics in use to date. It can tolerate very well in acidic conditions of the stomach and hence the name acidophilus (acido = acid, philus = loving).
The major function of L. acidophilus is to reduce the symptoms of diarrhea. L. acidophilus reduces diarrhea by expression of the SLC26A3 gene (8). It prevents vaginal infections and enteric infections with its antimicrobial properties (9). It also helps in metabolizing cholesterol (10), reduces the symptoms of IBS (11, 12), modulates immunity (13), and reduces allergies (14).
Lactobacillus casei
Lactobacillus casei is used in the probiotic drink called Yakult for more than 75 years. Its health benefits and effectiveness is supported by extensive scientific research. It’s primary use nowadays is the production of dairy products.
Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota is the common probiotic strain used in many fermented foods and drinks. It improves the symptoms in people with chronic constipation (15). Apart from GI support it modulates immunity and has anti-microbial properties (16).
L. casei also enhances the growth of other probiotic strains particularly L. acidophilus.
Lactobacillus fermentum
Lactobacillus fermentum is most commonly associated with dental caries. It metabolizes the sugars present in the food and releases acids that dissolve the enamel and dentin of the teeth. The probiotic strains of L. fermentum are PCC, ME-3, and CECT5716.
L. fermentum PCC reduces the symptoms of cold, flu and upper respiratory infections or allergies (17). L. fermentum ME-3 has antioxidative and antimicrobial properties (18). L. fermentum CECT5716 reduces gastrointestinal and upper respiratory infections in infants (19).
The commercial strains of L. fermentum are new members of the probiotic family. Their health benefits are studied extensively and it can open new pathways for the probiotic uses.
Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus reuteri was initially considered as L. fermentum. Due to the extensive work by microbiologist Gerhard Reuter, it was identified as a separate species and renamed as L. reuteri.
L. reuteri produces an antimicrobial compound called reuterin. Reuterin is a potent and broad antimicrobial agent that kills several pathogens in the gut (20). L. reuteri enhances a high resistance against the pathogen Salmonella typhimurium (21).
L. reuteri modulates immunity in several infections/disorders, neuromodulation, and reduces the symptoms of leaky gut (22).
Lactobacillus helveticus
Lactobacillus helveticus is predominantly used in the fermentation industry in the production of a wide variety of cheeses. Other than commercial uses it has many probiotic characteristics that confer to health.
L. helveticus is acid and bile resistant bacteria. It has good potential to reach the lower gut and colonize. It enhances nutrient absorption from the gut and removes the allergic molecules from the food.
L. helveticus suppresses fungal and bacterial infestation in the gut (23). It acts synergistically with Bifidobacterium longum and modulates the gut-brain axis during stress and reduces visceral pain caused due to excessive physical stress (24).
Lactobacillus Brevis
Lactobacillus Brevis is present in many fermented foods such as sauerkraut and pickles. L. Brevis is known to modulate immunity, enhance gut function and prevent bacterial vaginosis.
The topical application of L. brevis CD2 is known to prevent gingival inflammation and periodontitis (25). L. Brevis KB290 modulates immunity and can reduce the infection such as influenza in children (26).
Lactobacillus salivarius
Lactobacillus salivarius is commonly associated with the human digestive system. It is present in the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. L. salivarius is known to have immunomodulatory properties and helps the host in fighting against various infections.
L. salivarius in the mouth can prevent the early childhood caries (ECC) and Streptococcus mutans infection (27). It modulates cellular immunity in the gut and enhances the wellness of the host (28). It also produces bacteriocin Abp118 which prevents the host from infection with Listeria monocytogenes (29).
L. salivarius effectively prevents H. pylori infection (30), reduces gastric inflammation (31), and can effectively reduce cholesterol (32).
Lactobacillus paracasei
Lactobacillus paracasei is one of the common probiotics used in fermented foods and supplements. It is one of the many commensals present in the human gut. L. paracasei is differentiated from other lactobacilli by its fermentation profile. Other than that it is indistinguishable from L. rhamnosus and L. casei.
L. paracasei confers too many health benefits to the human body. It is present in the oral cavity, gut and the skin.
It helps in boosting the immunity and prevents infectious diseases in children (33). It plays a major role in reducing the symptoms of allergies by inducing T1 regulatory cells response (34, 35, 36). It prevents infections from common pathogens such as E. coli and Candida albicans (37, 38).
Lactobacillus paracasei is one of the prominent probiotics that can effectively reduce diarrhea in children (39). It helps in weight loss by making the cells absorb less amount of fat (40). It maintains the structural integrity of the skin and modulates skin immunity (41).
Lactobacillus bulgaricus
Lactobacillus bulgaricus or Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (L. d. bulgaricus) is a probiotic bacteria present in the gut. The major benefit of L. bulgaricus is its efficacy in reducing diarrhea. It is more effective in reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (42).
It is widely used in probiotic supplements which help in reducing the GI problems. It has the ability to treat ulcerative colitis (43) and reduce the symptoms of irritable bowel disease (IBD) (44).
Lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus gasseri is a new addition to the probiotic family. It gained popularity because of its anti-obesity effects and immune modulation.
L. gasseri reduces fat in abdominal viscera, decreases basal metabolic index (BMI), and reduced body fat mass (45). It also prevents fat accumulation in the abdomen (46).
In elder individuals, L. gasseri delays immunosenescence by enhancing cell-mediated immunity (47).
Bifidobacteria
Bifidobacteria form the major group of gastrointestinal flora. They form the first microbiota in infants and help in digesting the milk. Several species of bifidobacteria are probiotic and are widely used in fermented foods and probiotic supplements.
Bifidobacterium longum
Bifidobacterium longum is the most popular probiotic strain in the Bifidobacterium genus. It is widely used in probiotic supplements along with other probiotics such as Lactobacilli. Along with other Bifidobacterium species, it forms nearly 90% of the infant microbiome.
Bifidobacterium modulates immunity in several conditions such as candida infections (48) and influenza virus (49). It reduces symptoms of irritable bowel disease (IBD), acute and persistent diarrhea by Enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis (ETBF) strains (50).
In people with moderate hypercholesterolemia, B. longum reduced the total cholesterol levels significantly (51). It is also one of the popular probiotics used to alleviate mood disorders, particularly depression (52).
Bifidobacterium lactis
Bifidobacterium lactis is actually a subspecies of Bifidobacterium animalis. Initially, B. animalis and B. lactis were considered as two separate species. Now both animalis and lactis are two sup species of B. animalis i.e, B. animalis subsp. animalis and B. animalis subsp. lactis.
B. animalis subsp. lactis or simply B. lactis is one of the most common probiotic strains from Bifidobacterium genera. It is used with other probiotic strains in many supplements and foods.
B. lactis enhances immunity in adults in a measurable amount even after a short period of consumption (53). In children, it is very effective in reducing the symptoms of acute diarrhea (54). A combination of B. lactis and S. thermophilus is very effective in reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children (55).
In women, it boosts immunity and modulates immunity in breast milk (56, 57). It also reduces total cholesterol levels, BMI and LDL in (58). For constipation-predominant IBS (IBS – C), B. lactis is an excellent remedy in reducing the symptoms (59).
Bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum is a new and rapidly attracting medical media due to its wide range of health benefits. It is one of the common commensals of the human gut along with other species of Bifidobacterium.
B. bifidum is very effective in reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (60). It mediates cellular immunity and helps to fight against several enteric pathogens (61).
B. bifidum along with other probiotics has the ability to reduce allergies especially eczema in children (62).
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium is another common probiotic from the Bifidobacterium family. It is commonly found in the human gut and breast milk.
One of the prominent effects of B. breve is its ability to confer the anti-aging effect on the skin. It helps the skin stay hydrated and has a cleansing effect (63, 64). It lowers fat and improved reactive C – protein levels in obese individuals (65).
Children with functional constipation will get relief by consuming foods or supplements containing B. breve (66).
Bifidobacterium infantis
Bifidobacterium infantis is an emerging probiotic and gaining huge popularity because of its effect on IBS. It is naturally present in the human gut and breast milk.
One of the major reasons for many gastroenterologists to recommend this product is due to its efficacy in alleviating the symptoms of IBS and other discomforts. B. infantis alone or with a combination of other probiotics effectively reduces the symptoms of IBS (67). It also modulates the host immune response beyond the gut by mimicking commensal-immune interactions (68).
B. infantis 35624 is commercially called Bifantis™ and is available in the commercial form of supplements such as Align probiotic.
The Streptococcus Family
Most of the species of streptococci are pathogenic to humans and cause a wide variety of diseases. Several species of Streptococcus have been studied and some of them such as Streptococcus salivarius and S. salivarius subsp. thermophilus are not considered as dangerous or pathogenic.
S. salivarius subsp. thermophilus or S. thermophilus is widely used in the dairy industry. Although very little data is available regarding the probiotic effects of S. salivarius and S. thermophilus, it is believed that they have anti-inflammatory effects on the host. This particular behavior of S. thermophilus and S. salivarius is found beneficial in reducing skin allergies and acne. S. salivarius produces bacteriocin which is effective against Propionibacterium acnes (69) which is commonly associated with acne.
S. thermophilus is commonly used as one of the probiotic strains in the commercially available supplement VSL#3.
VSL#3 is widely used to treat the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.
Saccharomyces boulardii
We have learned about many beneficial bacteria that confer a health benefit to the host. Unlike the major probiotic family members which are bacteria, Saccharomyces boulardii is a tropical yeast which also confers to health benefit to the host.
French scientist Henri Boulard isolated it from the skin of lychee and mangosteen. He observed that the natives of Southeast Asia consumed these fruits in order to combat the symptoms of cholera.
Later, studies proved that S. boulardii is very effective in reducing the symptoms of acute diarrhea (70). It is also very effective in reducing the symptoms of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS – D) (71).
Bacillus coagulans
Bacillus coagulans are lactic acid-producing bacteria but are in no way similar to lactic acid bacteria. Though it significantly resembles both lactobacillus and bacillus, DNA sequencing was able to distinguish it from lactobacillus.
It is generally regarded as safe (GARS) and is added to the safety list by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). It is generally used as probiotic in the veterinary field but studies have shown its efficacy in humans too.
It reduces the symptoms of IBS (72) and constipation (73). It is also effective in treating Clostridium difficile associated colitis (74).
Now that you know how probiotics act on various parts of the human body, let us know which are the best probiotic supplements. There are many probiotic supplements that show different types of actions. Before you choose any of them, understand what you are using and what results are you expecting. It is also mandatory to note that not all probiotics give desired results for everyone. Some users may get good results while some any not see any difference.
If you are healthy and do not have any digestive (or any other) diseases/disorders, you might not notice any change after using probiotic supplements. People with some kind of disorder can observe changes after taking these supplements. Also, these changes may vary or can be subjective.
Please read our medical information disclaimer.
Best overall probiotic supplement
Renew Life Ultimate Flora
Renew life ultimate flora probiotic supplement is the best probiotic supplement for overall health. It has 12 which includes lactobacilli and bifidobacteria. It delivers 50 billion CFU per serving.
It is best suited for adults and helps in general digestive support, immunity and overall health. It is gluten, milk and soy-free.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
Storage: Store in a cool and dry place. Although the manufacturer does not stress on refrigeration, it is best if refrigerated.
Best Probiotic Supplement for General Digestive Health and Disorders
1. Ultra 30 Probiotic
Ultra 30 probiotic is our top choice for the best probiotic supplement for general digestive health. It contains 18 different probiotic strains and has 30 billion CFU.
The probiotic strains included in this supplement are:
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bacillus coagulans
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus fermentum
- Lactobacillus gasseri
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
- Lactobacillus Plantarum
- Lactobacillus salivary
- Lactobacillus helveticus
Ultra 30 probiotic also contains prebiotic inulin which acts as a food source for probiotics and inulin itself has many health benefits for the human body. It is gluten, wheat and soy-free. It does not need refrigeration for storage.
Dosage: Two capsules per serving.
Note that this probiotic supplement has a strong sour smell. Consider this if you are sensitive for sour smells or if you dislike the sour smell.
2. VSL#3
VSL#3 is one of the most commonly used probiotic supplements for digestive disorders. It is used to support general digestive health, reduce the symptoms of diarrhea, colitis, IBS, and improve gut motility.
VSL#3 contains 8 different probiotic strains that act synergistically to produce huge health benefits. The probiotic strains included in VSL#3 are:
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus Plantarum
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus bulgaricus
Note that VSL#3 contains milk (lactose). If you are lactose intolerant, avoid this supplement.
Dosage: Two capsules per day.
Must be refrigerated to make sure of maximum CFU delivery.
Best probiotic supplement for IBS
Three probiotic strains are very effective against all types of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). They are:
Saccharomyces boulardii
Bifidobacterium infantis
Lactobacillus Plantarum
You can take supplements that have any one of these probiotic strains or in combination. Probiotic supplements that have multiple strains act synergistically to reduce the symptoms of IBS.
1. Zenwise Digestive Enzymes plus Prebiotics and Probiotics
Zenwise digestive enzymes with prebiotics and probiotics are our best probiotic supplement for IBS. It is very effective in reducing all major symptoms of IBS such as bloating, constipation and diarrhea. It has prebiotic inulin which acts as fiber food for probiotics.
It has 10 different probiotic strains which include all probiotic strains effective against IBS. Along with them it also has other probiotic strains such as L. acidophilus, L. casei and B. breve.
It has 1 billion CFU to ensure maximum dosage per serving. It is soy, gluten, and lactose-free.
Dosage: One capsule per day
No need for refrigeration.
2. Align Probiotic
Align probiotic contains the so-called patented probiotic strain Bifidobacterium infanits 35624. It is one of the most recommended probiotic supplement by gastroenterologists. It provides 1 billion CFU per serving. User reviews and studies showed that it is highly effective against IBS.
It comes in a blister pack which has 7 capsules labeled with each day of the week. It is gluten and soy-free.
Align probiotic capsules contain milk (lactose).
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration.
3. DrFormulas Nexabiotic 23 Probiotics
DrFormulas Nexbiotic contains 23 diverse probiotic strains along with the top 3 strains effective against IBS (L. plantarum, S. boulardii, and B. infantis). The capsules are specially designed to survive the gastric acids so that the probiotics reach the lower gut. It contains maltodextrin as a prebiotic.
It has 34.5 billion CFU and the capsules are very small and easy to swallow.
This supplement contains trace amounts of lactose in order to make the probiotics survive the stomach acids. Maltodextrin, which is prebiotic, is made of corn, rice, potato, starch or wheat. Avoid this product if you are allergic to these products.
Dosage: 2 capsules per day.
No need for refrigeration.
Best Probiotic Supplement for Immune Support
Lactobacillus paracasei, L. acidophilus, L. Plantarum, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Bacillus coagulans are the best probiotic strains for immune support.
1. Renew Life – Ultimate Flora Probiotic Extra Care
Renew Life – Ultimate Flora probiotic supplement contains the right probiotic strains required for immunity. A total of 12 probiotic strains are included in this supplement. It provides 30 billion CFUs per serving. It is completely made of vegetable oils. It is gluten, milk and soy-free.
The capsules are a little bigger and for some, it can be cumbersome.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
It needs to be refrigerated.
2. Dr. Tobias Deep Immune Probiotics
Dr. Tobias Deep immune probiotics contain all the probiotic strains required for immune support along with a special bacterial strain Bacillus subtilis DE111®. It is a spore-forming bacteria that augments the colonization of other probiotic strains. It is also clinically proven to have health benefits on the host.
It contains 4 bacteriophages LH01–Myoviridae, LL5–Siphoviridae, T4D–Myoviridae, and LL12–Myoviridae as patented PreforPro® which act as boosters for the actual probiotic strains.
It provides nearly 4.4 billion CFU per serving
It may contain gluten, soy, fish oil and lactose. This is the major downside of this probiotic supplement. Also, the manufacturer does not clearly mention the addition of these products in their supplement.
Dosage: Two capsules per day.
No need for refrigeration.
Best probiotic supplement for allergies
A combination of probiotic strains along with Vitamin C is very effective against allergies. Vitamin C along with probiotics act synergistically to reduce the allergic symptoms by their anti-inflammatory properties. There are certain supplements that contain natural herbs and their extracts to reduce seasonal allergies.
1. PROBIOGEN Allergy Defense Probiotic
This supplement is very effective against allergies as it combines the power of Vitamin C and probiotics. The probiotic strains in this supplement are:
- Bacillus subtilis HU58™ (DE111)
- Bacillus clausii
It contains herbal extract from the leaf Urtica diocia. This herb is very popularly used in reducing seasonal allergies such as allergic rhinitis. The probiotic strains included in this product are spore-forming bacteria. They also help other probiotic strains to colonize in the lower gut.
Probiogen allergy defense supplement provides 1.5 billion CFU per serving.
It is gluten, soy, and lactose-free.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration.
2. Allergy Research Group Lactobacillus 100 Veg Caps
This supplement contains all probiotic strains that are supposed to reduce allergies i.e, L. acidophilus, L. salivarius, and L. rhamnosus. The best part is that it is a very good probiotic supplement for vegans as the capsules are completely made of vegetable extracts.
It is gluten, soy, and lactose-free. It provides 10 Billion CFU of L. plantarum, 4 billion CFU of L. salivarius and 3 billion CFU of L. rhamnosus per serving.
Dosage: One capsule per day. You can take up to 3 capsules per day as per your condition or suggested by your doctor.
No need for refrigeration.
Best probiotic supplement for acne
Probiotics for skincare are available either in the form of supplements or in the form of traditional face washes and cleansers. You can select any one of them depending on the severity of acne. Probiotic supplements for acne act similar to all the supplements but it will take a little longer time to show the results. Nonetheless, both are excellent options for skincare and preventing acne.
1. TULA Probiotics Skincare
This probiotic supplement contains a wide variety of boosters that enhance the health of the skin. The probiotic strains included in this product are:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium infantis
Along with the probiotic strains it also contains ceramides that help in retaining the moisture of the skin and vitamin C which acts as a powerful anti-oxidant.
It provides 3 billion CFU of all probiotic strains per serving. It is a pure vegan capsule and hence it is completely gluten, soy, and lactose-free.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration
2. ORGANIC TOPICAL (SKIN) PROBIOTIC SPRAY by MaryRuth
Unlike the traditional supplements, Organic Topical spray by MaryRuth is a plant-based topical probiotic spray. It contains probiotics along with organic grass extracts. The probiotic strains included in this spray are:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus lactis
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Streptococcus thermophilus
This product is suitable for skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea, wrinkles and much more. It is GMO compliant and completely vegan.
You can use this product at your convenience as many times as you can. Don’t overdo.
Best probiotic supplement for anxiety, stress, depression, and mood disorders
Probiotics are known to enhance the mood and alleviate the symptoms of anxiety. The gut-brain axis plays a major role in altering the mood. Probiotics stimulate the production of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, catecholamines, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and serotonin. Taking probiotic supplements for mood disorders is clinically proven to improve the condition.
1. Garden of Life Probiotic and Mood Supplement
Garden of Life Probiotic and Mood Supplement
Garden of life probiotic mood supplement has 16 different probiotic strains. These probiotics enhance mood, support immunity, and digestive system. It also contains ayurvedic ashwagandha which is a natural anxiety and stress buster.
It is completely gluten, soy and milk free. It provides 50 billion CFU (total) per serving.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration.
2. Lifted Naturals Mood Boosting Probiotic
Lifted naturals mood-boosting probiotic is specially formulated to alleviate anxiety and stress disorders. It contains 9 different probiotic strains which act together to enhance the digestive health, immunity, and reduce mood disorders. The probiotic strains included in this product are:
- Bifidobacterium infantis
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium animalis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus helveticus
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus brevis
The capsules are not enteric-coated and hence to make sure the survivability of the probiotics, take this supplement along with food. It is gluten, soy and milk free.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration but store at a cooler place which is below room temperature.
Best Probiotic Supplement for Weight Loss
Probiotics for weight loss act in many ways. They block fat absorption from the body and also help in mobilizing the excess fat from the adipose tissues. They also help stimulate the secretion of Glucan Like Peptide -1 (GLP- 1) hormone which promotes satiety.
1. Genius Probiotics for Weight Loss with Green Tea Extract for Women & Men
Genius probiotics contain a single probiotic strain, Bifidobacterium breve. This particular strain is clinically and scientifically proven to aid in weight loss. It also contains green tea extract which is a natural anti-oxidant and ensures the maximum survivability of the probiotics.
It also contains moringa extract which has natural anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. It is gluten, soy, and lactose-free.
Dosage: One capsule per day
No need for refrigeration.
2. ProbioSlim Probiotics
ProbioSlim Probiotics contain spore-forming Bacillus coagulans LS3664™. Along with this, it contains extracts of green tea, kiwi and papaya. These extracts act as prebiotics for the bacteria. It also contains Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which burns belly fat effectively.
It does not contain gluten, soy, and milk. Completely herbal.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration.
Best Probiotic Supplement for Women
Women need an extra dose of probiotics than men. Probiotics for women help in supporting digestive health, immunity, acne, weight loss and vaginal health. These probiotics also help women during their pregnancy and help in shaping the microbiome of the baby inside the mother’s womb.
1. Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women
This is one of the best probiotic supplements for women available in the market. It contains 16 different probiotic strains and delivers 50 billion CFU per serving. This supplement helps in promoting digestive health, immunity and vaginal health.
The manufacturer promises about the half shelf life of the probiotic strains supplied in their product. This means that the probiotics in this supplement stay alive by the time they reach you without effecting the CFU.
It does not contain any dairy products, gluten, and soy.
Dosage: One capsule per day
2. NatureWise Probiotics for Women
NatureWise probiotics for women contains 9 different probiotic strains that help women’s vaginal, urinary, digestive and immune health. This product delivers probiotics with their patented technology known as WiseBiotics™ which releases the bacterial strains slowly and steadily. This makes the 6 billion CFU equivalent to 90 billion CFU.
It also helps with mood support and weight loss. It contains D – Mannose which is very effective against urinary tract infections in women. Gluten, soy, and milk-free capsules are provided.
Dosage: One capsule per day.
No need for refrigeration.
Best Probiotic Supplement for Kids
Probiotics play a prominent role in shaping the immunity of the kids. In infants, they associate themselves with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) and stimulates the immune system. Apart from immunity probiotics for kids help in reducing other frequent symptoms such as diarrhea, colitis, and IBS.
1. SmartyPants Kids Probiotic
SmartyPants kids probiotic is a popular probiotic for kids. It contains Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans which are very effective probiotic strains for kids. Each serving delivers 4 billion CFU.
It comes in the form of gummies making it chewable for kids. It contains corn starch as a prebiotic to ensure the survivability of the probiotic strains. It is best suited for boosting the immunity of the kids.
Dosage: Children above 3 years must take 2 gummies per day.
2. OLLY Kids Multivitamin & Probiotic Gummy Supplement
Olly kids multivitamin & Probiotic Gummy Supplement contains Bacillus coagulans as the probiotic. It delivers 500 million to 1 billion CFU per serving. Along with the B. coagulans it also contains:
- Vitamin A, C, D, E and B
- Omega 3 fatty acids
- Zinc
It has a wide variety of benefits as it contains additional healthy supplements in it.
Dosage:
Kids between 2 – 3 years should take 1 gummy daily.
Above 4 years old – 2 gummies daily.
No need for refrigeration.
Side Effects of Probiotic Supplements
Probiotics are generally regarded as safe (GRAS). Like any other treatment or supplement modalities, there can be side effects after taking probiotic supplements. The symptoms include:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Rashes
- Allergic reactions
If you are suffering from any congenital disorder or if you have a compromised immune system, avoid taking probiotic supplements.
For some users who do not have any medical conditions but have used probiotic supplements for treating any existing conditions (IBS, diarrhea, colitis), the symptoms may worsen for a certain duration. You may continue using them because these symptoms subside once the probiotics starting playing their actual role.
Final Words
Probiotic supplements are beneficial for treating numerous health conditions. Some of the best probiotic supplements listed here are available offline in stores such as Walmart. Start taking probiotics as a health adjuvant in your daily diet. Start with lower doses and gradually increase them suitable for your requirements. Note that probiotics can take time to show their effect. Patience and persistence are required.
You can also add healthy snacks (probiotic and prebiotic snacks) to your office pantry which keeps you healthy during your work hours. Also, add prebiotics to your daily diet. They not only help in colonizing the probiotics but have great health benefits to the host.
