11 Best Probiotics of 2025: Tested and Dietitian-Approved

Key takeaways

Probiotics may help with digestion, immune health, vaginal health, symptoms of anxiety and depression, fatigue, or chronic conditions that affect the gut.
Some people supplement with capsule, powder, or beverage forms of probiotics. But you don’t need to take supplemental probiotics if you eat a balanced diet that includes natural probiotics and have generally good health.
Probiotics can either be shelf-stable for travel or require refrigeration, like mindbodygreen Advanced Probiotic+. We’ve tested several options at different price points to help you decide.

A quick look at the best probiotic supplements

Best overall: Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules | Skip to review

Best for inflammation: Ritual Synbiotic+ | Skip to review

Best for bloating: Mindbodygreen Advanced Probiotic+ | Skip to review

Best prebiotic and probiotic combination: Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic | Skip to review

Most budget-friendly: Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS Capsules | Skip to review

Best for weight loss: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Capsules | Skip to review

Best for constipation: Klean Athlete Probiotic Capsules | Skip to review

Best for diarrhea: Florastor Dual Action Probiotic | Skip to review

Best for men: Hyperbiotics Pro Men | Skip to review

Best for women: Rael Vaginal Health Probiotic Supplement | Skip to review

Best for kids: OLLY Kids Multi + Probiotic Gummy Multivitamin | Skip to review

You may take probiotics to help reduce symptoms of certain medical conditions, bolster your immune health, or promote weight management or mental wellness.

Not everyone needs to take a probiotic supplement, but if you and your healthcare team decide that you may benefit from one, there are many excellent products out there.

This article features our picks of the 11 best probiotic supplements on the market. It also explains what probiotic supplements are, who may benefit from taking one, and how to choose the right product for your needs.

Pricing guide

$ = under $0.50 per serving
$$ = $0.50 to $1 per serving
$$$ = over $1 per serving

Healthline’s picks for the best probiotic supplements

Disclaimer: Some of the probiotics tested below were provided for free by supplement manufacturers. Our opinions are ours alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the brands.

Best overall

Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic Capsules

4.6 (711+) from Culturelle

Dose: 1 capsule per day
Certifications: none
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$

SHOP NOW AT OPTUM NOW

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Culturelle is a well-known brand of probiotics and one of the best overall probiotic supplements thanks to its formulation and high colony-forming unit (CFU) count.

One capsule of Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic has 10 billion CFUs of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, a probiotic strain that may benefit a number of health conditions, such as diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

This supplement also contains 200 milligrams (mg) of the prebiotic inulin, which fuels beneficial gut bacteria.

Culturelle guarantees that the stated number of CFUs on the box is viable through the expiration date of the product, something the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends customers look for.

While products are not routinely tested for purity and potency by a third-party lab, the company states that it takes multiple measures to ensure quality and safety.

Culturelle probiotics have also been featured in multiple clinical studies, and the NSF International regularly audits the company’s processes.

The company also makes products to address specific needs of men and women.

Bonus: You don’t need to refrigerate it.

Tester Parisa Syed bought this probiotic from iHerb and tried it for 1 month.

“I didn’t notice any immediate effects,” she said. “However, by the end of the month, I noticed improvements in my typical gastrointestinal symptoms as well as a slight reduction in heartburn.”

Syed said she took the probiotic with her other medications each morning and didn’t experience any negative side effects, even after taking it on an empty stomach.

“The pill is a bit bigger than usual, but I’m used to taking big pills, so it went down easy for me,” she added.

no refrigeration required
gluten- and dairy-free
rigorous quality and safety standards
packaged to ensure CFU count until end of shelf life
contains clinically studied strains

not third-party tested for purity and potency
not vegan-friendly

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
CFU count: 10 billion

Best for inflammation

Ritual Synbiotic+

4.7 (62+) from Ritual

Dose: 1 capsule per day
Shelf-stable: yes
Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, Non-GMO Project verified, Made Traceable
Price: $$$

Use code "HEALTHLINE" for 25% Off!

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3.8

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Ritual’s Synbiotic+ stands out from others on the market because it contains pre-, pro-, and postbiotics to support overall gut health. It’s also been helpful for our tester, who has been taking the supplement for nearly 3 years.

Postbiotics are bioactive compounds that bacteria secrete, often through fermentation. While some researchers believe postbiotics offer some health benefits, there’s limited research on the subject.

Ritual’s Synbiotic+ contains probiotic strains, such as Lact o bacillus rhamnosus, that may be beneficial for people with IBS, though more research is needed.

The company conducted a test-tube study that suggested Synbiotic+ could support gut barrier function and increase the growth of beneficial bacteria. But keep in mind that because Ritual funded the study, there’s a risk of bias.

Ritual Synbiotic

Ritual’s Synbiotic+ has been a staple supplement in Christy Snyder’s routine for 3 years now, ever since she originally tried it in July 2022.

“I’ve struggled with digestive issues for years and was excited to try out Synbiotic+ as a possible replacement for the expensive pre- and probiotics that I was taking,” Snyder said.

She said that she didn’t experience an adjustment period or any negative side effects when she first started taking it and found that it was already helping with her bloating after only a few weeks.

“Overall, I’ve had a great experience and will be replacing my old supplements with Ritual Synbiotic+,” she said.

third-party tested for purity and potency
vegan-friendly
no refrigeration required
delayed-release capsule design
good for people interested in a pre-, pro-, and postbiotics

expensive
not suitable for people who don't tolerate prebiotics well

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG, Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12
CFU count: 11 billion

Women-Founded

Best for bloating

Mindbodygreen Advanced Probiotic+

4.5 (130+) from MindBodyGreen

Dose: 1 capsule per day
Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$$

Use code "HEALTHLINE20" for 20% off.

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4.3

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Mindbodygreen Probiotic+ is third-party tested, contains clinically tested probiotic strains to help alleviate bloating, and was highly reviewed by our tester.

This supplement provides a blend of Bifidobacterium lactis strains and Lactobacillus acidophilus, both of which have the potential to help with bloating and immune function.

Specifically, this probiotic contains Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07 to help ease bloating. Research from 2011 found that abdominal bloating improved significantly over 8 weeks of treatment with this probiotic strain compared with placebo. However, there’s a lack of more robust research.

Read more in our full mindbodygreen brand review.

MindBodyGreen Probiotic

This probiotic received a rave review from tester Kristin Currin, who said that she was impressed and pleased by how gently regular it made her. She reported that she also saw and felt a reduction in bloating and even lost an inch in her midsection.

“The first thing I noticed, though, was my mood being boosted,” said Currin. “My anxiety deflated some and my overall sense of well-being improved. It was so refreshing.”

third-party tested
shelf-stable
may help reduce bloating
may support a strong immune system

expensive
limited evidence supporting some of its claims

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
CFU count: 22 billion

Best prebiotic and probiotic combination

Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic

4.2 (543+) from ConsumerLab

Dose: 2 capsules per day
Certifications: third-party tested for allergens, pesticides and herbicides
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$$

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4.5

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Seed DS-01 is a subscription-based company with an eco-friendly approach to probiotics.

Customers receive their first orders in a refillable glass jar, which is used for subsequent refills. In addition to a 30-day supply of the synbiotic, first-time users are also given a handy travel-size glass vial.

Seed DS-01 contains a comprehensive blend of probiotics. Each 2-capsule serving delivers 24 probiotic strains, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis, both of which may be beneficial for heart health.

The supplement also stands out for including non-fermenting prebiotics that are compatible with a low FODMAP diet.

Seed probiotics undergo extensive testing throughout the manufacturing process and on final products to ensure purity and potency.

It’s worth noting that Seed DS-01 uses active fluorescent units (AFUs) instead of CFUs to measure the number of viable probiotic cells per dose. Research suggests that because AFUs are able to measure all viable cells, including those that may not be culturable, AFUs are a more accurate measure than CFUs.

Seed Probiotic

Two of our testers tried Seed probiotics and both experienced positive results for bloating.

Rita Mauceri is in her 50s and is dealing with some mild symptoms of menopause. “With menopause can come some weight gain and, in my experience, more frequent bloating,” said Mauceri.

After trying Seed for several weeks, she found it significantly alleviated her symptoms. “I’ve tried two to three probiotics in the past, and definitely liked Seed above the others. I found if I skipped taking the daily dose of DS-01 Synbiotic, my bloating typically returned,” she said.

“I also really like what the company stands for in terms of quality of ingredients and sustainability,” Mauceri said. She points out that the packaging is very appealing and user-friendly as well.

When asked about the price point, she had this to say: “There are certainly cheaper options but also pricier ones. Given the fact that it worked really well for me and made me feel better overall, I felt it was worth the price.”

Tester Lois Zoppi also tried Seed probiotics and found herself pleasantly surprised. “I have IBS symptoms that are exacerbated by other medications I take. I have only tried probiotics once before and didn’t have much success with them, so I went into testing Seed with low expectations,” she said.

Zoppi started taking 1 capsule per day and noticed that it helped with both bloating and cramps after just 5 days.

Upon going up to the full dose of 2 capsules per day, Zoppi’s IBS symptoms worsened. “As they were being compounded with the medication that was also messing with my stomach, I decided to just stick with the starting dose of 1 capsule a day,” she said.

“After going back down to the single daily dose, the flare-ups stopped, and I’m back to having far less bloating and cramping than before.”

extensive purity and quality testing throughout manufacturing
contains research-based strains
shelf-stable
subscription-based refillable jar
free of gluten and other major allergens
vegan-friendly

not third-party tested for potency
subscription required
expensive

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Bifidobacterium longum SD-BB536-JP, Bifidobacterium breve SD-BR3-IT, Lactiiplantibacillus plantarum SD-LP1-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD-LR6-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HRVD113-US, Bifidobacterium infantis SD-M63-JP, Bifidobacterium lactis SD-BS5-IT, Bifidobacterium lactis HRVD524-US, Lactobacillus crispatus SD-LCR01-IT, Lacticaseibacillus casei HRVD300-US, Bifidobacterium breve HRVD521-US, Bifidobacterium longum HRVD90b-US, Bifidobacterium lactis SD150-BE, Limosilactobacillus fermentum SD-LF8-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD-GG-BE, Limosilactobacillus reuteri RD830-FR, Ligilactobacillus salivarius SD-LS1-IT, Bifidobacterium lactis SD-CECT8145-SP, Bifidobacterium longum SD-CECT7347-SP, Lacticaseibacillus casei SD-CECT9104-SP, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SD-LPLDL-UK, Bifidobacterium lactis SD-MB2409-IT, Bifidobacterium adolescentis SD-BA5-IT, Limosilactobacillus reuteri SD-LRE2-IT
AFU count: 53.6 billion

Women-Founded

Most budget-friendly

Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS Capsules

4.5 (15.2k+) from iHerb

Dose: 2 capsules per day
Certifications: tested in-house for purity and potency
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $

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out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS is a third-party tested, multi-strain probiotic that’s impressively affordable. We also like that the capsules have an enteric coating, which is a barrier that helps minimize degradation in the stomach.

Some studies show that enteric-coated probiotics are more effective than non-enteric-coated probiotics. A 2019 test-tube study found that enteric coating led to a 20‐ to 40‐fold increase in the delivery of viable probiotics to the small intestine in a model of the stomach and small intestine simulating human adults.

If the product is stored properly — at room temperature in a cool, dry environment — the 5 billion CFU count per capsule is guaranteed through the “best used before” date.

Jarrow Probiotic

Almost immediately after trying this supplement, tester Alice Porter experienced noticeable benefits. “The evening I took my first dose, I didn’t experience any usual gas or bloating,” she said, adding that there were also no side effects the next day, like increased gas or stomach upset.

While Porter did later notice some minor side effects like stomach noises and bloating, she explains that these stopped completely after a few days of taking the supplements consistently.

“After a week of taking these probiotics, I noticed a slight improvement in regularity and reduction in stomach issues, though not a complete elimination of any bloating or discomfort,” she said.

“Ultimately, I prefer taking my probiotics in liquid or edible form. However, these are superior in terms of convenience and cost.”

no refrigeration required
third-party tested for purity and potency
relatively affordable

not vegan-friendly

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 60 per container
Strains: Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Pediococcus acidilactici, Lacticaseibacillus casei, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium breve, Lactococcus lactis subsp. lactis
CFU count: 10 billion

Best for weight loss

Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Capsules

4.6 (1k+) from Amazon

Dose: 1 capsule per day
Certifications: non-GMO verified, certified NSF gluten-free, third-party tested for purity and potency
Shelf-stable: no
Price: $$

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4.5

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: In addition to being manufactured by a trustworthy brand, this probiotic supplement contains Lactobacillus gasseri and L. rhamnosus, probiotic strains that may help support weight loss.

Research shows that people who are overweight are more likely to have dysbiosis (an imbalance in gut bacteria) and lower bacterial diversity than people who are not. This may increase hunger and increase energy storage in fat tissues, which contributes to unintended weight gain.

Taking a probiotic supplement containing specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus gasseri, L. rhamnosus, and L. plantarum, may help promote weight loss in several ways, including by decreasing gut permeability, reducing inflammation, and increasing bacterial diversity.

Garden of Life guarantees the CFU count through the end of the product’s “best used before” date if it’s stored properly. This supplement keeps best in the refrigerator.

According to the company, Garden of Life supplements are third-party tested. However, the company doesn’t disclose the name of the testing organization.

Garden of Life Probiotic

Though Kristin Currin didn’t experience the same level of results with this probiotic as she did with mindbodygreen and other brands she tried, she was very impressed with Garden of Life’s customer service.

“I also appreciate it’s a raw supplement,” she added, explaining that she prefers probiotics extracted from whole food ingredients and prefers to avoid synthetic probiotics, bioengineered supplements, and artificial flavors or ingredients.

“Garden of Life is among my shortlist of clean vitamins and supplements — from soil to bottle,” Currin said.

CFU count guaranteed through best-used-before date when product is stored properly
dairy-free
contains strains that may promote weight loss
third-party tested for purity and potency

not suitable for travel because it requires refrigeration
expensive
not suitable for those with severe food allergies
not vegan-friendly

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus paracasei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium infantis, Bifidobacterium longum
CFU count: 30 billion

Best for constipation

Klean Athlete Probiotic Capsules

4.5 (168+) from Amazon

Dose: 1 capsule
Certifications: GMO-free, NSF Certified for Sport
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$

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out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Klean Athlete’s probiotic contains a broad spectrum of strains along with a prebiotic blend, making it suitable for various digestive symptoms.

This probiotic includes Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis, both of which can help with bloating and abdominal pain, as well as a prebiotic blend containing fructooligosaccharides and slippery elm bark.

It’s also NSF Certified for Sport and free from wheat, gluten, and artificial coloring.

Klean Athlete probiotic

Kristin Currin uses probiotics to help manage anxiety and alleviate digestive issues like bloating.

After trying this supplement, she experienced increased regularity and even noticed improvements to her mood and mental clarity.

“With Klean Athlete Probiotic, I started to become regular gently and thoroughly, throughout the day,” she said. “I’d also had a bout of tonsil stones recently due to postnasal drip, and the prebiotic and probiotic formula helped to eradicate this built-up bacteria within 10 days’ time!”

Currin also pointed out that this supplement features acid-resistant capsules, which helps more beneficial bacteria reach the large intestine.

However, while she didn’t notice any side effects like bloating, Currin said this supplement did cause more gas than other probiotics, which could be due to its prebiotic blend.

may be good for several GI complaints
free from gluten, wheat, GMOs, and artificial colors
tester reported better regularity with these supplements
no refrigeration required
NSF Certified for Sport

not vegan-friendly

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 60
CFU count: 15 billion
Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus (La-14), Lactobacillus rhamnosus (Lr-32), Bifidobacterium lactis (HN019), Lactococcus lactis (Ll-23), Bifidobacterium longum (Bl-05), Bifidobacteriu bifidum/lactis (Bb-02), Lactobacillus gasseri (Lg-36), Streptococcus thermophilus (St-21)

Best for diarrhea

Florastor Dual Action Probiotic

4.7 (13.7k+) from Amazon

Dose: 2 capsules, once or twice per day
Shelf-stable: yes
Certifications: none
Price: $$

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3.5

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Florastor probiotics contain a probiotic yeast called Saccharomyces boulardii that research suggests may be helpful for managing symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

The strain has also been shown to help with diarrhea, especially antibiotic-associated or acute diarrhea.

The supplement comes in a vegetarian capsule and is non-GMO and gluten-free. However, because it contains lactose, it’s not suitable for those who have a dairy allergy.

It’s unclear whether these probiotics are tested to ensure purity and potency. While Florastor doesn’t mention third-party testing on the company’s website, the product is sold by CVS, which requires third-party testing on all of its dietary supplements.

It’s worth noting that the company renamed Florastor Daily Probiotic to Florastor Dual Action Probiotic, but according to the manufacturer, the formula remains the same.

When tester Crystal Hoshaw first opened this supplement, she was struck by the fact that only half of the bottle was filled. “They could have put twice the amount of pills in the bottle, which seems wasteful,” she said.

Regardless, Hoshaw said that she appreciated that the glass bottle is recyclable, compact, and easy to slip into her bag.

“The pills go down easily and have had the desired effect,” she said. “My bowel movements have been regular while taking, which is nice.”

contains probiotic strain that may be helpful for antibiotic-associated and acute diarrhea
no refrigeration required
high customer rating

not appropriate for those with an allergy to milk proteins
third-party testing for purity and potency is unclear

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 27 or 50 per container
Strains: Saccharomyces boulardii
CFU count: 500 mg of Saccharomyces boulardii CNCM I-745

Best for men

Hyperbiotics Pro Men

5 (4+) from Hyperbiotics

Dose: 1 tablet per day
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$

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3.5

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: This product is formulated specifically for men’s health, with ingredients like curcumin, which is a powerful antioxidant that may benefit prostate health, though there’s mixed research on this.

It also contains several probiotic strains, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, which may be beneficial for heart health, as well as Bifidobacterium longum, which has been found to benefit those with significant IBS-related symptoms.

Hyperbiotics Pro Men is vegan, gluten-fee, non-GMO, and produced in an NSF certified good manufacturing practice (GMP) facility, but the products are not third-party tested.

Vital Nutrients Probiotic

Timothy Jewell gave these probiotics a try, hoping to maintain regularity in spite of factors that increase constipation, such as stress, exertion, or diet changes.

After just 3 days, Jewell noticed an improvement in regularity, noting that diet or activities no longer seemed to affect his bowel movements, which is usually not the case.

“I have continued to notice regularity after almost a week of use and also noted that I haven’t felt any bloating since I began using them,” he said.

“I also found that my bowel movements were less difficult or intense … [and] noticed much less bloating than I usually have, even after having fried foods or sugary treats that would sometimes make me feel a little [bloated].”

no refrigeration required
produced in an NSF certified GMP facility
vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, and non-GMO

not third-party tested

Form: tablet
Number of servings: 30 per container
Strains: Lactobacillus fermentum, Probi Lactobacillus plantarum 6595, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus reuteri
CFU count: 5 billion (time of manufacture), 1.5 billion (time of expiration)

Best for women

Rael Vaginal Health Probiotic Supplement

4.2 (62+) from Rael

Dose: 1 capsule
Shelf-stable: yes
Price: $$$

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4.5

out of 5

healthline score

Healthline’s review

Why we love it: Rael’s vegan and allergen-free probiotic supplement is designed specifically with women in mind. It contains five strains of probiotics, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus reuteri, both of which may support vaginal health.

It also contains 25% of the daily value for vitamin D, which many women tend to be deficient in.

A small clinical trial found that 4 out of 5 women with self-reported bacterial vaginosis experienced improved vaginal and digestive health after taking Rael Vaginal Health Probiotic Supplement for 12 weeks. However, it’s important to note that the trial was self-funded, and more research is needed.

According to the website, Rael’s products are third-party tested and produced in a GMP certified facility, but the testing organization is not disclosed.

Rael Vaginal Probiotic

Although tester Sarah Choi didn’t experience any notable benefits after taking this probiotic for 1 week, she also didn’t notice any side effects and was pleasantly surprised by how easy they were to swallow.

Additionally, she appreciated the convenience of this supplement and said she had a great experience trying it.

“I was glad that it was a one-and-done situation, and I wasn’t stuck taking a pill two or three times a day,” she said. “I’m a pretty forgetful person when it comes to taking pills, so that was a plus.”

Choi also said the probiotic didn’t have any aftertaste, even after holding the capsule in her mouth.

vegan and allergen-free
contains vitamin D
third-party tested

self-funded clinical trial

Form: capsule
Number of servings: 30
Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, Lactobacillus casei Lc-11, Lactobacillus gasseri Lg-36, Lactobacillus acidophilis NCFM
CFU count: 15 billion

AAPI-Founded

Women-Founded

Best for kids

OLLY Kids Multi + Probiotic Gummy Multivitamin

4.7 (13.6k+) from Amazon

Price: $13.99
Type: gummy
Recommended age: 2 years and older

SHOP NOW AT IHERB

*Price may vary.

Healthline's review

Why we love it: OLLY Kids Multi + Probiotic supplement is an easy way to increase the nutrients in your child’s diet. It provides vitamins to support energy production and bone health as well as probiotics to support digestive health.

The gummy form makes it easy to add a boost to your child’s diet. It may be a better option for young kids who have a difficult time with capsules.

These probiotics include:

vitamins A, C, D, E, B6, and B12
zinc
folate
biotin
pantothenic acid
choline
iodine
Bacillus coagulans SNZ1969 probiotic strain

These gummies have a berry flavor and don’t contain synthetic flavors or colors.

This supplement will suit children who consume a gluten-free diet.

gummies may be easier for young children to take
contains vitamins and probiotics
children from 2 years can take these gummies
third-party tested

some reviewers would like there to be a sugar-free option

Included nutrients: folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin, pantothenic acid, choline, iodine, zinc, probiotics, and vitamins A, C, D3, and E

A comparison of the best probiotic supplements

Product

Price per serving

Dose

Need refrigeration?

Third-party tested?

Good for

Probiotic strains

Culturelle Digestive Daily

1 capsule

• general digestive health
• IBS symptoms
• diarrhea

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus

Ritual Synbiotic+

$$$

1 capsule

yes, for purity and potency

• general digestive health
• IBS symptoms
• subscription

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus
• Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12

Mindbodygreen Probiotic+

$$$

1 capsule

yes, for purity and potency

• immune health
• digestive health

• Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM
• Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07
• Bifidobacterium lactis HN019

Seed DS-01 Synbiotic

$$$

2 capsules

yes, for allergens, pesticides, and herbicides

• bloating
• eco-friendly subscription

24 strains, including Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium lactis

Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS

2 capsules

yes, for purity and potency

general digestive health

• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus
• Lacticaseibacillus casei
• Bifidobacterium breve and more

Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics

1 capsule

yes

yes, for purity and potency

• weight loss
• general digestive health

• Lactobacillus gasseri
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus
• Lactobacillus plantarum

Klean Athlete Probiotic Capsules

1 capsule

yes

general GI discomfort

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus
• Bifidobacterium lactis

Florastor Daily Probiotic

2 capsules

unclear

diarrhea

• Saccharomyces boulardii

Hyperbiotics Pro Men

1 tablet

men

• Lactobacillus fermentum
• Lactobacillus plantarum 6595
• Lactobacillus acidophilus
• Bifidobacterium longum
• Lactobacillus casei
• Lactobacillus reuteri

Rael Vaginal Health Probiotic Supplement

$$$

1 capsule

yes

women

• Lactobacillus casei
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus
• Lactobacillus gasseri
• Lactobacillus acidophilus La-14
• Lactobacillus acidophillus NCFM

OLLY Kids Multi + Probiotic Gummy

1 to 2 gummies

yes

kids’ general digestive health

• Bacillus coagulans SNZ1969
• vitamin blend

How we chose the best probiotic supplements

We selected the best probiotics using the following criteria. Read more about our methodology for vetting dietary supplements.

Vetting: All the products have been vetted to ensure that they meet Healthline’s medical and business standards, adhere to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations on allowable health claims and labeling requirements, and are manufactured in facilities that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) established by the FDA.
Credibility: The products we chose are made by medically credible companies that follow ethical, legal, and industry best standards and that provide objective measures of trust, including having supplements thoroughly tested for purity and potency, ideally by third-party organizations.
Effective dose: Except one product (which doesn’t use CFUs), all the supplements above contain at least 10⁶ (1 million) CFUs per gram.
Ingredients: We looked for products that are made from high quality ingredients and free of artificial additives and fillers.
Personal needs: We included options to suit various needs and preferences, whether you need a specific probiotic strain or follow a gluten-free diet.
Reviews: We included options that were either tested and recommended by Healthline editors or that have overall positive reviews online.

What are CFUs?

Probiotics are generally measured in colony-forming units (CFUs). These units represent the number of viable bacteria per dose.

Products labeled “1 x 10⁹ CFU” contain 1 billion viable or live bacteria per dose. Most supplements contain 1 to 10 billion CFUsTrusted Source per dose, but some contain much larger amounts.

For beneficial effects, probiotics must be taken in quite large doses. Researchers suggest that probiotics must contain at least 10⁶ (1 million) viable CFUs per gram to be able to survive digestion and exert positive effects in the body.

What are the benefits of taking probiotics?

Probiotic supplements have been linked to some health benefits. While research on probiotics has increased significantly over the past 20 years, researchers are still learning about them and their health effects.

Probiotics may:

Improve symptoms of IBS: ResearchTrusted Source suggests that probiotics, especially multi-strain products containing Lactobacillus acidophilus, may help improve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as bloating and abdominal pain.
Help with diarrhea: Studies indicate that probiotics may help improve multiple types of diarrhea, including infectiousTrusted Source diarrhea, antibiotic-associatedTrusted Source diarrhea, and traveler’sTrusted Source diarrhea. Certain strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus GGTrusted Source and Saccharomyces boulardiiTrusted Source, seem to be particularly effective for treating diarrhea in children and adults.
Help with constipation: Some probiotics, such as Bifidobacterium lactis, may help improve constipation. However, study results varyTrusted Source, with some showing no improvements in constipation with probiotics.
Help reduce UTI frequency: Some studiesTrusted Source show that taking probiotics Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1 and Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 may help reduce urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women. However, study results are conflictingTrusted Source.
Promote immune health: EvidenceTrusted Source supports the role of probiotic supplements in maintaining immune health. Several studies suggest that probiotics may enhance immune function in certain populationsTrusted Source, but more research is needed.
Benefit metabolic health and weight management: Alterations in gut bacteria may contribute to obesity and metabolic issues. Some studies show that probiotic supplements may promote weight loss. ResearchTrusted Source in this area is ongoing.
Improve cardiovascular risk factors: Probiotic supplements may help reduce blood lipid levels in some people, which may decrease the riskTrusted Source of heart disease. However, evidence is limited at this time.
Help manage certain mood and emotional disorders: Studies suggest that certain probiotics may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, but there’s a need for more high quality studies before researchers can make any strong conclusions.

Jerlyn Jones, MS, MPA, RDN, LD, CLT, is a registered dietitian who explains what people may need to know before considering probiotic supplements.

Jones notes that probiotics may have some benefits, such as preventing or reducing:

allergies
high cholesterol
cancer
lactose intolerance
IBD
diarrhea
IBS

“However, the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) doesn’t recommend probiotics for certain digestive problems like inflammatory bowel disease or irritable bowel syndrome because there isn’t enough research to support these claims,” Jones said.

How to choose the best probiotic supplement for you

If you’re interested in taking a probiotic supplement, it’s important to first determine whether a probiotic supplement is necessary for your specific health needs.

If you’re instructed to take a probiotic, consider the following:

Probiotic strains: Probiotics are not one-size-fits-all remedies. Certain probiotic strains are much more effective for certain medical conditions and symptoms than others. Look for supplements with specific strains based on your needs.
Intended use: The effectiveness of probiotic supplements is not only strain-specific but also disease-specific, meaning the correct strain and dose must be appropriateTrusted Source for the condition or symptom you intend to treat.
Brand: Manufacturing processes, shelf life, and formulation type can significantly affectTrusted Source a probiotic supplement’s effectiveness. So, it’s essential to buy probiotics from established, physician-trusted brands.
Storage requirements: Some probiotics require refrigeration. Check the product label for proper storage instructions. In general, probiotics are sensitive to heat. Thus, if they don’t require refrigeration, you’ll want to store them in a cool, dry area.
CFUs: The product quality matters. It’s important to look for probiotics that contain at least 10⁶ (1 million) CFUs per gram, as research suggests that this is the minimum amount needed to exert positive effects in the body.

Also keep in mind that because probiotics are quite vulnerable to factors such as temperature change and storage time, many may no longer be viable by the time you purchase them.

For this reason, the National Institutes of HealthTrusted Source recommends that customers choose products that list the CFUs at the end of a product’s shelf life. This indicates that a product contains a therapeutic number of CFUs after a person purchases a product.

Which probiotic is best for you?

“First, determine why you want to take a probiotic. If you want to improveTrusted Source your gut microbiome then pay close attention to:

CFUs (the number of bacteria per dose)
types of bacterial strains that are used
how your probiotics need to be stored (shelf stable or refrigerated)
which strains and/or brand names have been studied for their effectiveness
- The most studied strains include Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacterium strains of bacteria.

“Remember, there is no cure-all probiotic or a one-size-fits-all approach to taking probiotics, and always check with your doctor or a trusted healthcare professional before beginning any supplement.

“The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not check the safety or effectiveness of dietary supplements, so it is important to choose a reputable brand that undertakes third-party testing to prove the purity and quality of their products. Look for USP, Informed Choice, or NSF International on the label.”

— Jerlyn Jones, MS, MPA, RDN, LD, CLT

To use or not to use probiotics?

Contrary to popular belief, probiotic supplements are not necessary or appropriate for most people.

Not only can they be expensive, but they may lead to side effectsTrusted Source such as bloating — which was the experience of one of Healthline’s testers — and bacterial overgrowth.

Plus, probiotic supplements could lead to excessive immune stimulation and infection among people with weakened immune systems.

Before you try a probiotic

Avoid taking probiotics before consulting a healthcare professional. They can help you decide whether a probiotic supplement is appropriate and provide brand and dosage recommendations.

While some people, including those with IBS and certain types of IBD, may benefit from specific strains of probiotics, most people who follow a nutritious diet and healthy lifestyle do not need to take probiotic supplements.

What’s more, some researchers have concernsTrusted Source that the widespread use of probiotics may lead to antibiotic resistance and warn that many studies investigating the safety and effectiveness of probiotics are of low quality.

For these reasons, avoid taking probiotics before consulting a healthcare professional. They can help you decide whether a probiotic supplement is appropriate and give brand and dosage recommendations.

None of these stand out to you?

You might want to read these articles to see whether we have a pick that suits your needs:

When to talk with a doctor

You may benefit from a probiotic if:

you’re experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms such as:
- abdominal pain
- bloating
- cramping
- diarrhea
- constipation
you have received a diagnosis of IBD or IBS
you are concerned about your vaginal health

But it’s a good idea to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional first. Your symptoms could be related to a condition that requires a specific treatment or medication.

Additionally, taking a probiotic can do more harm than good in some individuals, so it’s important to discuss options with a trusted expert before trying anything new.

Frequently asked questions about probiotic supplements

Because probiotics are strain-, disease-, and symptom-specific, no single probiotic is more effective overall than others. An effective probiotic supplement contains one or more probiotic strains that have been clinically shown to help with the symptoms you’re experiencing.

Still, some brands are considered to offer higher quality probiotic supplements, including Culturelle, Seed, and Jarrow Formulas.

Because research on the safety and effectiveness of probiotics in people without existing health conditions is still inconclusive, it’s best to talk with a healthcare professional before starting a daily probiotic.

While experts generally consider probiotics to be safe, few studies have investigated the safety of probiotics in detail.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health states that there may be an increased chance of harmful effects of probiotics in people with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems.

While more research is necessary, there are some side effects of probiotics, such as:

infections, some severe or fatal in people with severe illnesses or compromised immune systems, such as seriously ill hospital patients and premature infants
production of harmful substances by the probiotic microorganisms
transfer of antibiotic-resistant genes from probiotic microorganisms to other microorganisms in the digestive tract
risk of serious health risks from products that contain microorganisms other than those listed on the label
digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas
allergies to certain strains

There isn’t a best time to take probiotics. It’s better to aim for consistency rather than a specific time of day.

Some manufacturers may suggest taking your supplements on an empty stomach or around mealtimes. However, the research varies on the effectiveness of taking probiotics with or without meals.

For example, one very small study found that probiotics caused positive changes in the gut microbiome regardless of whether the participants took them with a meal.

According to Jerlyn Jones, MS, MPA, RDN, LD, CLT, a registered dietitian, “Everyone would benefit from eating probiotics naturally from foods such as yogurt, looking for live active cultures on the label, and eating kefir.”

However, she also shared that “not everyone benefits from taking probiotic supplements.”

If you’re considering taking probiotics, it’s worth talking with a doctor to understand which you may benefit from.

The bottom line

Probiotic supplements may be helpful for people with certain conditions, such as IBS, constipation, and UTIs.

However, probiotics aren’t necessary for everyone. The effectiveness of probiotic supplements depends on the strain, dosage, and condition being treated.

Finally, there are many other ways to take care of your gut microbiome and overall health that don’t involve dietary supplements, including following a nutrient-dense diet, managing your stress levels, and maintaining a moderate weight.

Nutrition

11 Best Probiotic Supplements for 2025, According to Dietitians

Key takeaways

Pricing guide

What are CFUs?

Which probiotic is best for you?

Before you try a probiotic

None of these stand out to you?

What is the most effective probiotic supplement?

Is it OK to take a probiotic every day?

What is the downside of taking probiotics?

Should I take probiotics in the morning or at night?

Who should avoid probiotics?

How we reviewed this article:

Evidence Based

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