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People have been using probiotics to try to force weight loss, but is it a myth or can you actually initiate weight loss?
After checking with our dietitian, I learned that there are too many probiotics that don’t contain enough live cultures to replicate in your gut, and also, no, you can’t force weight loss by just taking probiotics.
So, I teamed up with a dietician and several clients to find the best probiotic supplements. I spent hours researching and collecting the data from my clients, as well as trying out these supplements myself.
Here’s what I found.
The Best Probiotic Supplements
- Best Overall Probiotic Supplement: 1MD Complete Probiotics
- Cheapest Probiotic Supplement: Culturelle Daily Probiotic
- Best Probiotic Pills for Bloating: Culturelle Daily Probiotic
- Best Probiotic Pills for Seniors: Renew Life
- Best Probiotic Capsules for Women: Garden of Life
- Best Probiotic Supplement for Digestion: 1MD Complete Probiotics
- Best Probiotic Pills for Sensitive Stomach: Ora Organic
- Best Probiotic to Take With Antibiotics: Live Conscious Pro
- Best Probiotic and Vitamins Mix: Garden of Life
- Best Vegan Probiotic Supplement: Ora Organic
- Best Probiotic Capsules With Prebiotic: Live Conscious Pro
- Best Subscription Probiotics: 1MD Complete Probiotics
Our Top Probiotics (December 2024)
1 - 1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum (Best Overall & for Digestion)
- Price per serving : $1.43
- Key ingredients : 51 billion CFUs, NutraFlora® Prebiotic
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to use 11 different strains, and all of them provides a more diverse reaction
- Positive comments about the slow-release capsules
- Contains some added fiber to further help your digestion
- Good bulk-order and subscription offers
Cons
- It’s not the cheapest option available
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People needing effective digestive support
- Those wanting multiple strains and high CFU count
Who is it not for?
- People on a tight budget
Final Verdict
Provides comprehensive digestive support, but it's pricey. Ideal for those seeking high-quality probiotics.
After three months of using the 1MD product, I noticed a significant improvement in my digestion. It felt like my gut was thanking me every day!
It claims to contain at least 51 billion colony-forming units (CFU) using 11 of the more important strains, including lactobacillus rhamnosus. We also did the milk test (more on this later) to confirm that the probiotics can reproduce once exposed to nutrients.
According to the study in the National Library of Medicine, the added prebiotic fiber helps to feed the good bacteria as soon as they are released in your gut [1].
I also recommend you check out other recommended prebiotic supplements.
I'll admit that it’s not the cheapest supplement, but all the feedback from trial participants seems to point out that it should provide positive effects.
2 - Live Conscious Pro-45 Live Probiotics (Best to Use With Antibiotics)
- Price per serving : $1.50
- Key ingredients : 45 billion CFUs, Prebiotic Fiber
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides 11 strains of bacteria for a broader range
- Capsules dissolve slowly to release the bacteria over time
- Includes a small boost of prebiotic fiber as well
Cons
- Some reports of bloating and gas
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People using antibiotics
- Those needing broad strain support
Who is it not for?
- People sensitive to bloating
Final Verdict
Suitable to use with antibiotics but may sometimes cause bloating. Overall, a reliable probiotic option.
When I was on a high-calorie diet for my athletic training, the Live Conscious product was my go-to. It helped me digest those extra calories without the usual bloating.
The 11 strains claim to have been chosen to help deal with some of the more common stomach issues, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and diarrhea.
These probiotics could also help if you’ve had to take a strong or longer course of antibiotics due to illness.
I also concluded that the slow-release capsule seems to be working well as there was no negative feedback about it causing sudden gas from trial participants.
However, a few online reviews said that they tended to get a bit of bloating when this was taken with certain foods.
3 - Ora Organic Vegan Probiotics (Best Vegan & for Sensitive Stomach)
- Price per serving : $1.33
- Key ingredients : 16 billion CFUs, Prebiotic Fiber
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to add some prebiotics as well for added gut balance
- The capsules are small enough to make them easy to swallow
- Suitable for vegans as well
Cons
- Uses only six strains of bacteria
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Vegans
- People with sensitive stomachs
Who is it not for?
- Those needing multiple strains and high CFU count
Final Verdict
Ideal for vegans and those with sensitive stomachs, but fewer strains. A gentle and effective choice.
Having a sensitive stomach, I've always been cautious about supplements. But Ora Organic was different; its lower dose was just right for me, offering relief without any side effects.
I also found that the capsules were smaller, which made them a lot easier to swallow.
For any of our vegan readers, you’ll be glad to see the vegan certificate on the label, and I have had positive comments from clients that it helped them deal with stomach issues, including diarrhea and IBS, as described in the World Journal of Gastroenterology [2].
The downside I found with this product is that it only covers six strains of bacteria, so it might not fix all your digestive issues.
4 - Culturelle Daily Probiotic (Cheapest & Best for Bloating)
- Price per serving : $0.70
- Key ingredients : 10 billion CFUs, Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Some added prebiotic fiber may also help with maintaining healthy digestion
- May work well for people taking antibiotics
- Doesn’t seem to cause any gas or bloating
Cons
- Limited to only lactobacillus rhamnosus
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Budget-conscious individuals
- Frequent antibiotic users
Who is it not for?
- People needing broad strain support
Final Verdict
Affordable and suitable for those on a budget, but limited strains. Overall, an economical option.
Many doctors will recommend probiotics for women and men who may need to take antibiotics for a bad infection [3]. After a round of strong antibiotics last year, my doctor suggested I try Culturelle. It was a game-changer, helping restore my gut balance in no time.
But most probiotic products might not contain a strong dose of this one strain because they focus more on a wide variety of good bacteria.
Culturelle could help in this situation as it only contains the lactobacillus rhamnosus strain.
This might also be a suitable option if you tend to get gas with some of these products, as my clients reported that it may have easing effects.
5 - Garden of Life RAW Probiotics (Best With Vitamins & for Women)
- Price per serving : $0.99
- Key ingredients : 85 billion CFUs, Vitamins and Minerals
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Specifically formulated for women
- One of the broadest ranges with 32 probiotic strains
- Added vitamin and mineral blend may provide a health boost
Cons
- You may want to store this in the refrigerator
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Women
- Those needing extra vitamin support
Who is it not for?
- People unwilling to refrigerate
Final Verdict
Designed for women with a wide range of strains and added vitamins. Needs refrigeration but is a powerful choice.
I had a major gut imbalance a while back, and Garden of Life was my savior. Within a month, I felt like my old self again, with no more unpredictable stomach upsets.
Garden Life claims to provide 32 probiotic strains with a live culture of 85 billion units.
Garden of Life probiotics may also suit women in particular as the combination and concentration of the various probiotics claim to have been scientifically assessed for female needs.
There are also some added vitamins and minerals that may be supportive of your immune system and overall gut health.
During my evaluation of this supplement, I needed to store it in a cold place to ensure that the cultures don’t die.
6 - Renew Life Adult Probiotic (Best for Seniors)
- Price per serving : $0.93
- Key ingredients : 30 billion CFUs, Delayed-Release
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Most suitable for people over 50
- Tablets dissolve slowly in the gut to avoid bloating
- Doesn’t require storing in the refrigerator
Cons
- The capsules are a bit large so try breaking them up
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People over 50
- Those not wanting to refrigerate
Who is it not for?
- People who have difficulty swallowing large capsules
Final Verdict
Suitable for seniors with slow-dissolving tablets. No refrigeration needed, but capsules are large.
I have a few clients who are approaching 50, and they feel their digestion isn't what it used to be.
Renew Life has created a supplement that may be of interest to people over 50, as this one has been formulated with strains that you might be lacking due to natural aging. I recommended it to my clients, and they reported no more stomach issues.
Renew Life provides a lower number of units than most of the above, but for some folks, that may help to better deal with stomach issues like cramping, diarrhea, and the effects of IBS.
I also noted that it’s one of the few products that may not need to be stored in a cold place, but I'd still advise keeping it out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources.
The only downside is that we found the capsules might seem a bit large to swallow.
7 - Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic Complete Probiotic
- Price per serving : $0.90
- Key ingredients : 25 billion CFUs, Prebiotic Fiber
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ships in an insulated pack to avoid losing some of the cultures
- Added prebiotic fiber to help feed the good bacteria
- A broad range of 12 different strains
Cons
- You will have to store it in a cool place to avoid losing the live cultures
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing diverse strains
- People wanting added prebiotic fiber
Who is it not for?
- People unwilling to refrigerate
Final Verdict
Provides a broad range of strains with added prebiotics. Requires refrigeration but is effective overall.
I've always been wary of overloading my system, so when I tried Klaire Labs' probiotic, it felt just right. Gentle yet effective, it supported my immune health without overwhelming my stomach.
It still contains 12 different strains but in a slightly lower concentration.
The company also claims to always ship the product in a cool pack to avoid the cultures from dying whole in transit.
It also has some prebiotic fiber that may be beneficial if your food is slightly lacking in fiber to feed your gut flora.
Just make sure you keep it cold as soon as it arrives, as the cultures seem to be sensitive to temperature fluctuations.
8 - INNATE Response Formulas
- Price per serving : $1.00
- Key ingredients : 20 billion CFUs, 14 Strains
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to contain 14 probiotic strains for a more balanced gut flora
- Capsules are small enough to be easy to swallow
- Positive comments about the shipment including a cold gel pack
Cons
- Needs to be stored cold to retain potency
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People with sensitive digestion
- Those preferring smaller capsules
Who is it not for?
- People unwilling to refrigerate
Final Verdict
Suitable for sensitive stomachs with small, easy-to-swallow capsules. Needs to be kept cold.
I've always had a sensitive tummy, especially with spicy foods. But after starting with INNATE Response Formulas, those post-meal discomforts became a thing of the past.
It claims to help by slowly building up and strengthening your gut flora so that certain digestive issues are less likely to disrupt your day.
The shipment should arrive fast with a package that includes a cool pack to avoid losing any of the potency.
Just make sure to keep it refrigerated as the cultures seem to be sensitive to heat.
9 - Advanced Naturals Ultimate Floramax
- Price per serving : $0.80
- Key ingredients : 50 billion CFUs, 10 Strains
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Uses a good range of 10 probiotics for an overall boost
- Claims to help with common stomach discomforts
- Doesn’t require refrigeration, but still aim to keep it out of the heat
Cons
- Some added prebiotic fiber would be helpful
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Those needing high CFU count
- People with common digestive issues
Who is it not for?
- Those wanting added prebiotic fiber
Final Verdict
High CFU count suitable for digestive issues, doesn't need refrigeration. Lacks prebiotic fiber.
I was skeptical about trying another high-dose probiotic after some past experiences. But Advanced Naturals Ultimate Floramax surprised me. It was potent without any of the usual side effects.
With 50 billion units, this probiotic supplement should be suitable for most stomach issues that may be down to an imbalance in your gut bacteria.
It also doesn’t seem to need refrigeration, but it’s still best to keep the product in a cool and dark place.
The main thing I was missing for a product in this price range is some prebiotic fiber to support culture growth.
10 - LyfeFuel Super Probiotic
- Price per serving : $1.20
- Key ingredients : 50 billion CFUs, 12 Strains
- Form : Capsule
- Third-party tested : Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Claims to be the most suitable option for people with a sensitive stomach
- Includes 12 strains of bacteria for broader digestive health
- Positive comments that it doesn’t seem to cause bloating
Cons
- Shipping is only free on bulk orders
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- People with sensitive stomachs
- Those needing broad digestive health support
Who is it not for?
- People wanting free shipping on small orders
Final Verdict
Gentle on sensitive stomachs with broad health support. Requires bulk order for free shipping.
LyfeFuel was a revelation for me. Despite its strength, it was gentle on my sensitive stomach, and I felt more balanced after just a few weeks of use.
I also received positive feedback from clients who had some stomach issues, so the slower dissolving capsules seem to be working.
I also didn’t note any negative comments about bloating or gas when they are taken with various foods.
If anything, I got some feedback that it may actually help to avoid constipation and other stomach conditions.
The only negative I found with this one is that you need to bulk-order if you want to get free shipping, which isn’t the case with most others.
How We Tested the Best Probiotic Supplements
Here's how we chose the best probiotic supplements:
Price
When it came to price, we were meticulous in ensuring that every dollar spent was worth its value. We compared the cost of each probiotic supplement against its competitors in the market, taking into account the number of servings, the quality of ingredients, and the brand reputation.
It was essential for us to recommend products that not only fit a range of budgets but also provided genuine value for their price point.
Effectiveness
We closely monitored the results of each probiotic supplement over a consistent period, noting any significant improvements in digestion, bowel regularity, and overall gut health.
Feedback from users, combined with our own experiences, played a pivotal role in determining which products truly delivered on their promises and made a tangible difference.
Ingredients
Ingredients are the backbone of any supplement, and we delved deep into the composition of each probiotic. We scrutinized the strains of bacteria used, ensuring they were beneficial and present in effective amounts.
Additionally, we checked for the inclusion of any harmful additives or fillers, prioritizing products that maintained purity and transparency in their formulations. It was paramount for us to recommend supplements that were both safe and potent.
Buyer's Guide
To choose the best probiotics, consider factors like the ingredients' quality, your goals, and the types of probiotics.
1 - Types Of Probiotics
Your gut houses diverse bacteria. [4] However, more strains in a probiotic supplement don't necessarily mean it's superior.
“Within those trillions of gut bacteria are about 1,000 different species, represented by some 5,000 distinct bacterial strains.”
- Harvard Health Publishing
While some people with more serious gut flora issues may need such a product, this isn’t the case for the majority of people who are just looking for a bit of a health boost.
By focusing on a smaller set of probiotics, you should be able to cover the more important ones for digesting food.
2 - Prebiotics Vs. Probiotics
Taking probiotics will introduce new beneficial bacteria cultures to your gut, but you’ll also need to feed them in order for them to flourish and replicate [5]. That's why some products contain prebiotic fiber to support these bacteria.
This could make quite a difference, as we did encounter some supplements that just didn't seem to be as effective at supporting vaginal health and reducing the risk of conditions like urinary tract infections.
Our dietitian pointed out that you might be able to take a smaller size bacterial culture if it was combined with the right nutrition for the bacteria to thrive.
3 - Assessing The Quality
This was an interesting conversation we had with a nutritionist.
Apparently, there are hundreds of probiotic supplements that may have included living cultures at some stage.
But by the time they hit your stomach, they have broken down so much that they simply cannot create much of a difference.
The important thing to look out for is the number of colony-forming units. You’ll see this marked as something like 20 billion CFU.
And you could test the potency of different products by adding them to a small glass of milk and seeing whether it curdles.
4 - Choosing For Your Goals
If you’re dealing with serious health conditions, then it’s always best to talk to your doctor before making a final supplement choice.
While taking probiotics is generally a good idea for anyone with health issues, there are certain types that might be more suitable to boost your gut and immune system.
One way they may boost your gut and the immune system is by effectively dealing with harmful microorganisms and pathogens before they are absorbed by your digestive system [6].
5 - Feeding The Right Bacteria
Many people are taking some probiotic supplements and then still wonder why they have weight issues and regular stomach problems.
The problem is that any probiotic supplement can only do so much. If you’re still eating foods that are feeding the bad bacteria, then you won’t solve these problems.
To feed the good bacteria and create a better gut flora balance, you have to make sure you eat less processed foods and a more diverse range of raw foods.
Also, try to get more fiber into your diet as this should feed your new probiotic arrivals.
6 - Other Helpful Ingredients
Once you’ve taken steps to improve your gut health through probiotics, it’s time to look at some other vitamins and minerals that might help to improve symptoms of gut problems.
Some products include added immunity boosters, and this is one way to try and get multiple health benefits from one product rather than having to find ones you can stack.
The Science Behind Probiotics
Probiotics, often referred to as "good bacteria," play a pivotal role in maintaining our gut health. At the cellular level, these microorganisms interact harmoniously with our existing gut flora, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.
They also help in warding off harmful pathogens by competing for resources and space. Furthermore, probiotics play a role in the production of certain vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for overall gut health.
The balance they help maintain is crucial, as disruptions in this equilibrium can lead to digestive issues and other health complications.
FAQs
Who Should Take Probiotics?
Everyone should take probiotics, even on an occasional basis. It’s difficult to keep your gut flora balanced, and if you suffer from occasional digestive discomfort, it might be easily solved with probiotic supplements.
Is There a Downside to Probiotics?
No, there isn’t a downside to probiotics, at least for most people. However, some might feel a little bit of gas as the new microorganisms start to thrive. If you have any underlying bowel conditions, you should talk to your doctor first.
How Long Should You Stay on Probiotics?
You should stay on probiotics for at least four weeks. Generally, this is the recommended time to allow the new bacterial colonies to grow enough to rebalance your gut flora. But this will vary depending on the potency of the product.
When's the Best Time to Take Probiotics?
The best time to take probiotics is in the morning, shortly after you eat breakfast. Doing so will provide the right environment for the bacteria to thrive and support you throughout the day. But if you often suffer from an upset stomach at night, it might be better to take your probiotic supplement before bed.
What’s the difference between probiotics in foods vs. Supplements?
The main difference between probiotics in foods and supplements is that many probiotic supplements have a stronger effect than food and can help you solve certain gut issues faster. Natural food sources rich in probiotics, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, have been consumed for centuries and are revered for their health benefits. On the other hand, probiotic supplements offer a concentrated dose of specific strains, making them a suitable choice for those looking to address particular health concerns.
Our Verdict on the Best Probiotic Supplements
After several months of testing and reading hundreds of customer reviews trying to find the best probiotic, I came to the conclusion that the best probiotic supplement is 1MD Platinum.
Its unique blend and ample CFUs address a range of digestive concerns. I've even seen high-performance athletes swear by it for better digestion of their hefty diets.
If you're considering a probiotic, give 1MD Platinum a try and your gut will thank you.
Our Best Probiotics
1MD Complete Probiotics Platinum (Best Overall & for Digestion)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Claims to use 11 different strains, and all of them provides a more diverse reaction
- Positive comments about the slow-release capsules
- Contains some added fiber to further help your digestion
- Good bulk-order and subscription offers
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of December
- It’s not the cheapest option available
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