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Best Probiotics for Gut Health of 2024 – A Buyer’s Guide

We Breakdown What to Look for In Probiotics to Boost Overall Gut Health & Wellness

Written by Rachel G.

Occasional gas, bloating, and constipation? Chances are your gut's to blame. In fact, scientists, researchers and physicians are discovering that the gut is responsible for many aspects of our health and ultimately, the quality of our lives. 

Along with housing over 70% of our immunity, our gut directly impacts our digestion, lungs, heart, and even the brain! And when bad bacteria start outnumbering the good, it can negatively impact one or more of these vital systems.

But a quality probiotic supplement can do wonders to help replenish our gut with billions of helpful bacteria, thereby re-establishing the correct balance of our gut flora.

Unfortunately, not all probiotics are made the same. And with so much clutter on the market it's tough to know what direction to take when looking for a high quality supplement. So, Great Life Tips did the hard work for you, by revealing what to look for and what to avoid when shopping for an effective probiotic.

We even researched hundreds of probiotics on the market to give you the 5 very best probiotic supplements on the market today.

6 Ways Probiotics Can Skyrocket Your Health

When our good bacteria is plentiful, they line up along the inside the walls of our arteries to defend against invading bad bacteria, much as soldiers would when defending a fort. But when we have too few of these good ‘wall defenders,’ the bad bacteria jam their way through these thin walls where they enter our bloodstream and travel throughout our body — definitely not a situation we'd want.

When the bad bacteria in our gut start outnumbering the good, not only does it make it more difficult to digest food, but it can sometimes lead to embarrassing gut issues such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea. A high-quality probiotic can help correct this imbalance, leading to a marked improvement of these symptoms.

A recent study has shown a direct relationship between bad bacterial growth in the gut and the ability to fall and remain asleep. This can lead to sleep disorders that zap our energy during the day and create erratic sleep patterns. In short, the more good bacteria in our gut, the better our sleep!

Many are surprised to learn that our gut has over 500 million neurons that send signals to the brain via the spinal cord. When our bad bacteria is out-of-control, the gut sends confusing signals, which can lead to occasional brain fog, stress, and even memory slips. The gut and brain are intricately linked, so it’s vitally important that the gut is as healthy as possible. 

If you ever wondered how people slide past the age of 100 so effortlessly, chances are it’s because of their healthy, youthful gut. In fact, recent studies show that participants over the age of 100 who are less physically frail and enjoy greater mental acuity had one thing in common: an abundance of healthy bacterial strains in their gut. So, the fountain of youth may just be located in our gut after all!

With over 70% of our immunity residing in our gut, it becomes important to support it in any way we can. Probiotic supplements replenish the gut with helpful bacteria to boost our immune system so it can respond to unanticipated attacks.

4 Things All Effective Probiotics Must Have

Based on our research and feedback from our Shoppers, these are the things to look for in an exceptional probiotic supplement:

High CFU Count

Since our microbiome is composed of about 100 trillion good and bad bacteria, a high number of Colony Forming Units (CFUs) will have greater impact on the growth of beneficial bacteria within our gut.23 It's essential to choose a probiotic which specifies CFU versus "active cultures" or "live cultures." Look for a formula with a minimum of 40 billion CFU.

Prebiotics

The latest research shows that fiber-based prebiotics (such as NutraFlora Fiber) feed the probiotics, helping them to populate and flourish in our gut.24 Choose probiotics supplements containing prebiotics to significantly increase the overall effectiveness of the probiotic.

Clinically Studied Strains

There are hundreds of different probiotics strains, but many have never been proven effective. The best way to identify the potency of a particular strain is to look at the clinical studies backing it up. To find out if a particular strain has clinical backing, search the strain name on the internet. Look for strains proven effective by clinical studies. 

Formulated By A Doctor

It takes specific expertise to form an effective probiotic formulation. More is not necessarily better. The exact combination of strain type, potency, quantity, and prebiotics determines the product's quality. Look for real doctors specializing in gut health backing the product.

Every year, researchers make new strides in understanding probiotics and how they affect our health. We now understand that there are hundreds of unique probiotic strains that all perform different functions in our bodies. Some strains enhance digestion to minimize uncomfortable symptoms such as diarrhea and constipation. While others can enhance our mood, increase energy or give us greater mental clarity. 

Here are some of the most effective strains available in a high-quality probiotic:

Top Probiotic Strains & Their Benefits:

While the potency and variety of strains is crucial when looking for in a high-quality probiotic, it's equally important to know what to avoid when looking for an effective probiotic.

The following 3 tips should help you sidestep those not worth your time: 

Probiotics: 3 Things To Avoid 

Probiotic strains serve different purposes in the body, so it's important to choose a probiotic supplement that features a variety of robust strains. Most probiotics feature only one or two strains — far too few to be effective.

We recommend looking for a supplement with at least 9 unique strains for a more comprehensive approach to overall health and immune function. 

A high-quality probiotic will clearly identify its specific probiotic strains on the label. Indicated by a combination of letters and numbers following the strain's name (eg. L. gasseri L22G), these 'substrains,' tell you that they are backed by one or more clinical studies.

Unfortunately, many supplements on the market are made with generic (and cheaper) strains, so it's always a good idea to check the label to ensure specific substrains are there.

Probiotics requiring refrigeration can be damaged or killed off during shipping. They may also be unable to survive the hot, acidic environment of our gut. We therefore suggest choosing a probiotic that is shelf-stable and does need to be stored in the refrigerator.  

Top 5 Probiotic Supplements Of 2021

1. Probiotic

by Wholesome Organics

Total Ranking

374 votes

9.7/10

A+

Overall Grade
  • Ingredient Quality
    9.7 Avg.
    9.7/10
  • Potency & Estimated Efficacy
    9.7 Avg.
    9.7/10
  • Value
    9.6 Avg.
    9.6/10
  • Return Policy
    9.8 Avg.
    9.8/10
  • Customer Satisfaction
    9.5 Avg.
    9.5/10

PROS

  • Supports Immune & Gut Health
  • 51 Billion CFU
  • 11 Probiotic Strains
  • Delayed-Released
  • Certified Vegan & Non-GMO
  • Gluten, Dairy, & Soy-Free
  • Excellent US-based customer service

CONS

  • Only available online
The Bottom Line

Wholesome Organics’ Probiotic offers an incredible value featuring 51 billion colony forming units from 11 naturally-sourced probiotic strains, which are packed with many healthful benefits including support for your immune and gut health. This certified hormone-free, non-GMO supplement is free of gluten, dairy, and soy, making it a formula you can trust.

Delayed-release capsules help ensure the supplement is protected from harsh stomach acid and releases in the intestines for maximum nutrient absorption.

Their return policy includes a 90-day, risk-free, money-back guarantee, proving the company stands behind its products.

*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Learn About Our Top Pick

2. Probiotic with Prebiotic Fiber Blend

by Physician’s CHOICE

o

Total Ranking

247 votes

9.1/10

A-

Overall Grade
  • Ingredient Quality
    9.1 Avg.
    9.4/10
  • Potency & Estimated Efficacy
    9.6 Avg.
    9.6/10
  • Value
    8.8 Avg.
    9.2/10
  • Return Policy
    8.5 Avg.
    7.5/10
  • Customer Satisfaction
    9.2 Avg.
    9.2/10

PROS

  • 60 Billion CFUs
  • 10 Strains
  • Delayed-Release
  • Contains Organic Prebiotic

CONS

  • Delayed Results
  • Possible Stomach Issues
  • 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line

The next probiotic to make the list is Physician’s CHOICE, which features an Organic Prebiotic Fiber Blend to aid with digestive and immune support. Containing 60 billion CFUs and 10 strains, this probiotic is designed for survivability thanks to the Patented Shelf-Stable bottle, ensuring high-quality results until the expiration date.

However, there are a few cons to consider. Despite the high amount of CFUs and strains, some reviewers have stated they experienced delayed results, so it may take more than one 30-day container to experience the results. Additionally, those with super sensitive stomachs did experience some side effects, such as diarrhea, bloating, and stomach pain.

*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Learn More

3. PRO-15 Probiotic

by Hyperbiotics

Total Ranking

263 votes

8.7/10

B+

Overall Grade
  • Ingredient Quality
    8.9 Avg.
    8.9/10
  • Potency & Estimated Efficacy
    8.7 Avg.
    8.7/10
  • Value
    8.6 Avg.
    8.6/10
  • Return Policy
    8.4 Avg.
    8.4/10
  • Customer Satisfaction
    8.7 Avg.
    8.7/10

PROS

  • 15 Strains
  • Survivability
  • Delayed-Release
  • Naturally Sourced
  • Vegetarian

CONS

  • Only 5 Billion CFUs
  • Hard to Swallow
  • Some Stomach Issues
  • Only 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line

Hyperbiotics’ PRO-15 Probiotic features 15 strains, all of which are naturally sourced and already present in the human body. These non-GMO probiotics are vegetarian-friendly and are free of dairy, gluten, artificial additives, or preservatives.

These delayed-release capsules, which release over an 8-10 hour period, claim to have a 15x more survivability rate and do not require refrigeration.

These probiotics, however, have a lower amount of CFUs compared to the others on our list coming in at 5 billion CFUs. While you only need to take one capsule a day, some reviewers state that the capsule is a bit harder to swallow. Additionally, despite claims of being for those with sensitive stomachs, some reviewers stated that they experience some stomach discomfort, including bloating.

*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Learn More

4. Probiotic-10

by NOW

Total Ranking

244 votes

8.1/10

B-

Overall Grade
  • Ingredient Quality
    8.2 Avg.
    8.2/10
  • Potency & Estimated Efficacy
    8.9 Avg.
    8.9/10
  • Value
    7.3 Avg.
    7.3/10
  • Return Policy
    7.8 Avg.
    7.8/10
  • Customer Satisfaction
    8.3 Avg.
    8.3/10

PROS

  • 25 Billion CFUs
  • 10 Strains
  • Vegan & Vegetarian-Friendly

CONS

  • Not Delayed-Release
  • Must Be Refrigerated
  • Delayed Results
  • Non-Returnable
The Bottom Line

Free of soy, dairy, and gluten, these probiotics from NOW are a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions. They feature 25 billion CFUs through the Best By Date and contain 10 strains of probiotics.

Unfortunately, this is about where the pros end. These probiotics lack the delayed-release feature we love about the other options listed. They also need to be refrigerated to maintain survivability. Therefore, if ordering online, the microorganisms may not survive through shipping especially in the warmer months. This can also affect results.

At this time, NOW does not accept any returns.

*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Learn More

5. Advanced Strength Probiotic

by BioSchwartz

Total Ranking

174 votes

7.9/10

C+

Overall Grade
  • Ingredient Quality
    7.9 Avg.
    7.9/10
  • Potency & Estimated Efficacy
    8.7 Avg.
    8.7/10
  • Value
    7.1 Avg.
    7.1/10
  • Return Policy
    7.9 Avg.
    7.9/10
  • Customer Satisfaction
    8.3 Avg.
    8.3/10

PROS

  • 40 Billion CFUs
  • Shelf Life Potency Guaranteed
  • Naturally Sourced
  • Delayed-Release

CONS

  • Fewer Strains
  • Some Stomach Distress
  • Only 30-Day Return Policy
The Bottom Line

Featuring 40 billion CFUs, this probiotic from BioSchwartz guarantees shelf life potency until the expiration date and requires zero refrigeration. They are non-GMO, are 100% allergen-free, and contain no artificial additives. The delayed-release technology also ensures potency for maximum benefits.

Unlike our other options mentioned above, this probiotic contains the fewest amount of strains. Additionally, reviewers with sensitive stomachs have stated they have experienced some discomfort, including bloating and gas.

*Results are based on the Great Life Tips Ranking System and do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Learn More

Sources

  1. Kim, Seon-Kyun, et al. “Role of Probiotics in Human Gut Microbiome-Associated Diseases.” Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, vol. 29, no. 9, 2019, pp. 1335–1340., doi:10.4014/jmb.1906.06064. 
  2. Singh, Varun Pratap et al. “Role of probiotics in health and disease: a review.” JPMA. The Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association vol. 63,2 (2013): 253-7.
  3. Zhang, Yu-Jie et al. “Impacts of gut bacteria on human health and diseases.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 16,4 7493-519. 2 Apr. 2015, doi:10.3390/ijms16047493
  4. Wieërs, Grégoire et al. “How Probiotics Affect the Microbiota.” Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology vol. 9 454. 15 Jan. 2020, doi:10.3389/fcimb.2019.00454
  5. Zhang, Chenhong, et al. “Ecological Robustness of the Gut Microbiota in Response to Ingestion of Transient Food-Borne Microbes.” The ISME Journal, vol. 10, no. 9, 2016, pp. 2235–2245., doi:10.1038/ismej.2016.13. 
  6.  Kligler, Benjamin, and Andreas Cohrssen. “Probiotics.” American family physician vol. 78,9 (2008): 1073-8.
  7. Chang, Hung-Yang, et al. “Multiple Strains Probiotics Appear to Be the Most Effective Probiotics in the Prevention of Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Mortality: An Updated Meta-Analysis.” PLOS ONE, vol. 12, no. 2, 2017, doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0171579.  
  8. Fijan, Sabina. “Microorganisms with claimed probiotic properties: an overview of recent literature.” International journal of environmental research and public health vol. 11,5 4745-67. 5 May. 2014, doi:10.3390/ijerph110504745
  9. Mörkl, Sabrina et al. “Probiotics and the Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis: Focus on Psychiatry.” Current nutrition reports vol. 9,3 (2020): 171-182. doi:10.1007/s13668-020-00313-5
  10. “Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD).”NIH Office of Dietary Supplement, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services ods.od.nih.gov/Research/Dietary_Supplement_Label_Database.aspx

Rachel G.

Avid blogger, book reader and general knowledge enthusiast. Rachel has 6 years of journalism experience and graduated from Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism in 2009.

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[1] This website is owned and operated by Wholesome Goods

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Note: The information contained within this site is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have, expect to have, or suspect you may have any medical condition, you are urged to consult with a healthcare provider. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained on or available through this website is for general information purposes only. Results do not necessarily reflect typical results from the use of these products. Please visit product websites for more information.

Trademarks utilized on our website belong to their respective owners and no implied or expressed endorsement of our website or services is intended. Rankings can be affected by the relationship Great Life Tips has with our top picks.