Other important factors include the strain of bacteria, how much bacteria the supplement contains, and whether it contains prebiotics. Sex and gender exist on spectrums.

Click here to learn more. Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here. Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products.

All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication. Probiotics are harmless microorganisms that may support the presence of healthy bacteria in the body. The human body contains millions of live bacteria. Many exist in the gut.

The gut microbiome is unique to each individual, and research shows it may be determined before birth. Probiotics can help populate the gut with good bacteria.

Gut bacteria have many bodily functions and affect weight, mood, and inflammation. Some people take probiotics to maintain everyday health. When using a probiotic for a specific health concern, people should speak to a healthcare professional about the best strategy. Clinical trials show that different probiotics and dosages are effective for different conditions and situations.

Probiotic manufacturers measure amounts of bacteria in colony-forming units CFUs. Supplements can vary, but most have a CFU in the billions.

Foods with added probiotics often contain lower numbers of bacteria. Generally, people take higher-CFU products for specific conditions and lower-CFU products for general health maintenance.

Some research suggests that probiotics can help keep the gut healthy and may help relieve the symptoms of some health conditions. A review states that probiotics may be beneficial in preventing or treating the following five conditions:.

Antibiotics can kill both bad and good bacteria. Sometimes, this can cause a person to experience symptoms of diarrhea when taking them. In particular, the probiotic yeast Saccharomyces boulardii has effectively prevented and treated diarrhea that occurs when taking antibiotics or following infection.

The yeast may also effectively treat irritable bowel syndrome BS and inflammatory bowel disease IBD , but more research is needed to confirm this. An older review of studies indicates that probiotics may reduce gut transit time — the time it takes for food to pass as a bowel movement — by The Bifidobacterium lactis strain seems most efficient in improving gut transit time, stool frequency, and consistency, and in reducing flatulence.

However, the researchers advise caution when interpreting the results, as there may be bias in some of the studies included. A small study found that people following a low calorie diet for 15 weeks experienced changes in their gut bacteria.

They also had a reduction in bacteria associated with atherosclerosis , which occurs when the arteries become clogged with plaque. The links between weight and gut bacteria could indicate that probiotics may support weight loss. Some experts suggest that supplementation with synbiotics — a combination of prebiotics and probiotics — , using strains such as Lactobacillus gasseri, may lead to weight reduction.

Adding certain fibers may increase these effects. A review of obesity and probiotics concluded that mixtures of probiotic strains may be more effective in treating obesity than single strains.

In particular, Bifidobacterium may be effective for reducing body mass index BMI. A review concluded that certain probiotic strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium genus showed promising results for weight loss.

One review concluded that probiotics may result in a reduction of weight and fat percentage. However, there have not been enough high quality studies to confirm that probiotics have this effect. Most research into this has used Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains.

However, there are still unanswered questions about specific strains, duration of treatment, and appropriate dosages. Research into the effects of probiotics on mental health is limited, but early studies suggest there may be a connection between gut microbiota and the central nervous system.

This is referred to as the gut-brain axis. Researchers have used Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus to treat the symptoms of major depressive disorder MDD.

Studies into using probiotics to treat mental health conditions are ongoing and showing promise. Emerging research indicates that probiotics could improve gut-brain wellness, help improve certain behaviors in autistic male children, and reduce the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD in males.

These conditions affect males and females differently, highlighting the importance of gender-specific research into probiotics. A study in people with Salmonella infection suggested that the effects of taking Lactobacillus plantarum varied according to sex. Although the study authors saw little evidence that this probiotic may treat Salmonella, they noted how males and females experienced the symptoms and clearance of the infection differently.

Some probiotic supplements also contain prebiotics, compounds that the probiotics can feed on. Some formulas may also contain prebiotics. Including prebiotics can be beneficial, as they provide substances for probiotics to digest.

Research indicates that prebiotics are effective because they withstand food processing and reach the colon undigested. Oligosaccharides are some of the most common prebiotics in supplements and foods.

Such people can obtain the health benefits of prebiotics by including plenty of fiber and resistant starch in their diets and eating foods such as garlic , onions , bananas , and oats instead.

Learn more about the relationship between prebiotics and probiotics. People can take probiotics in supplement form, or the form of foods and beverages such as yogurt and drinks with live cultures added. Learn about the best food sources of probiotics. Fermented foods naturally contain beneficial bacteria.

Examples of fermented foods include:. Learn more about fermented foods. Every individual biome is different. Look for probiotics with a high CFU count, multiple or specific bacteria strains, and clear usage recommendations.

However, a person should consult a doctor for guidance on probiotics. Although scientific research shows promise for probiotics, the American Gastroenterological Association AGA does not recommend using probiotics as a primary treatment for most digestive conditions.

The AGA only recommends using probiotics to prevent Clostridioides difficile , manage pouchitis, a complication of irritable bowel disease, or in the case of necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm or low birth weight infants, and if someone is taking antibiotics.

People should speak to a gastroenterologist for specific probiotic guidance and recommendations based on their health conditions and goals. People who have weakened immune systems and serious health conditions should avoid probiotics.

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH states that probiotics can increase the risk of infections and antibiotic resistance. This ever-popular probiotic supplement is a favorite among gastroenterologists thanks to strains like Bifidobacterium , which supports healthy digestion and can help with occasional gas and bloating.

Rajapaksa says, and Amazon reviewers are big fans. This option has 10 strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium , which have well-documented benefits. One is Lactobacillus rhamnosus , a bacteria that research suggests can be beneficial for diarrhea, mood support , and even weight loss.

And unlike some probiotics, you can take it on an empty stomach. Men, meanwhile, can benefit from this Garden of Life probiotic supplement; this one promotes good digestion, ideal immunity, and proper bowel movements with 85 billion CFU of 31 probiotic strains.

Just be sure to refrigerate them when they arrive. This once-daily, no-refrigeration-needed probiotic packs in 16 strains of friendly bacteria to support good digestion, boost your immune health, and support a healthy environment for vaginal flora —the total package for women.

One reviewer even credits it with helping her resolve her lingering bacterial vaginosis. and it has the quickest and the most effective results.

This subscription-based supplement offers 12 Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria probiotic strains shown to support healthy gut flora. Best of all? The daily dose is just one capsule. As we age, the amount of Bifidobacterium species in our gut decreases, per a study —but this supplement is designed to fight back.

Another big bonus is its fermented botanical blend, which includes black pepper, ginger root, and turmeric root to further support digestion. The combo of Lactobacillus strains, Bifidobacterium strains, vitamin C, and ceramides in this probiotic supplement work to balance your gut—and help your skin look its best.

Rajapaksa, who formulated the probiotics herself. Another favorite of Dr. Choose the right bacteria. General-use supplements should contain well-researched strains; Lactobacillus , Bifidobacterium , and Saccharomyces boulardii have been studied the most, Dr.

Ask your doctor about strains that have been shown to be particularly helpful. Look for a few key extras. A good supplement has time-release technology and delivers a dose of prebiotics —fibers that act as food for probiotic bacteria. Another important extra is third-party certification; seek out a seal of approval from groups like Consumer Lab, NSF International, or the U.

Pharmacopeial Convention USP , which ensures the product has been tested for quality, purity, potency, and ingredients. Probiotics can improve your health in more ways than one.

Here are a few benefits that have been backed by research:. According to the Cleveland Clinic , some conditions that could be improved with increased probiotics include:.

Anyone can regularly consume foods high in probiotics for a healthy gut and probiotics are recommended for people who have gut issues, says Prest. When it comes to supplements, one of the most common reasons to take a probiotic is because you are experiencing digestive issues, says Keri Gans, M.

Probiotics are helpful for bowel regularity, particularly for loose or runny stools, adds Prest. Another reason a person may wish to start on a probiotic is to help maintain their immune health, says Gans.

It depends on the antibiotic and the timing of taking the probiotic, says Prest. When treating a specific health condition, there may be a particular probiotic strain that is most effective, says Prest.

If you experience any significant health issues or experience side effects after starting a probiotic, like bloating, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is best to seek medical care right away.

Your doctor can help determine the root cause of your symptoms, and let you know if you continue the use of your probiotic.

Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships. Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English.

When Is the Best Time to Take Zinc? The Best Time to Take Vitamins. Is Pre-Workout Bad for You? Experts Explain. The Best Collagen Powders for Skin and Nails. Can You Take Berberine for Weight Loss? The Best Iron Supplements.

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Best probiotic for women Garden of Life Dr. Pros 1 doctor and gastroenterologist recommended Gluten-free Soy-free Vegetarian. Cons Some reviewers said the packaging was bulky. Form Capsule Dose 1 Capsule daily CFU count 1 billion.

Pros Great value Targeted-release technology No refrigeration required. Cons 2 capsules per dose. Form Capsule Dose 2 Capsules daily CFU count 50 billion. Pros Can take on an empty stomach Vegan Gluten-free.

Some have been well studied, and some haven't. One theoretical risk of probiotics is if someone has an immune system weakened by illness or medication, that person could get sick from probiotics.

Another concern about probiotics is that they're considered dietary supplements, not drugs. As a result, the FDA doesn't monitor the manufacture of probiotics. It's not clear if probiotics that can be bought at pharmacies and health food stores are high-quality products.

It's even possible that some lower-quality products may not even contain the probiotic bacteria that are listed on the label. Plain Greek yogurt is a good source of probiotics.

Sweeten the taste with fresh berries, which are rich in antioxidants and fiber. Supplements aren't the only way to get a daily dose of probiotics. There are many foods loaded with these cultures of good bacteria.

The top sources include. Trying to get probiotics from food sources alone can be tricky. Food manufacturers are not required to show a specific dose of a specific probiotic, so they don't. You might have a more consistent dose in a supplement, but it's best to speak with your doctor before beginning any probiotics regimen.

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

Probiotics are generally measured in colony forming units CFUs. These units represent the number of viable bacteria per dose. Most supplements contain 1—10 billion CFUs 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 10 6 1 million viable CFUs per gram to be able to survive digestion and exert positive effects in the body. Our opinions are ours alone and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by the brands.

Note that the dosage recommendations vary between 1 and 2 capsules or tablets, taken 1—2 times daily. Thus, a product that you need to take fewer times per day may be comparatively cheaper despite having a higher price per count than a product you need to take multiple times per day.

Probiotics are found naturally in certain foods , such as kimchi and fermented yogurt. They are also found in your gut, where they participate in a variety of important bodily processes , such as vitamin production, mood regulation, digestion, and immune function.

Probiotics are also available in supplement form. These supplements contain high doses of either a single probiotic strain or multiple probiotic strains. Probiotic supplements have been linked to some health benefits.

But while research on probiotics has increased significantly over the past 20 years, researchers are still learning about them and their health effects. 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.

This indicates that a product contains a therapeutic number of CFUs after the product is purchased. Contrary to popular belief, probiotic supplements are not necessary or appropriate for most people. Plus, probiotic supplements could lead to excessive immune stimulation and infection among people with weakened immune systems.

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

They can help you decide whether a probiotic supplement is appropriate and give brand and dosage recommendations. Research suggests that probiotics must contain at least 10 6 1 million viable CFUs per gram to have a clinically significant effect.

Additionally, the most-studied and most-used strains of probiotics are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. However, probiotic supplements are strain- and disease-specific, so the most effective strain will depend on the condition or issue that the supplement is meant to improve.

Because probiotics are strain-, disease-, and symptom-specific, no single probiotic is more effective overall than others. Still, some brands are considered to offer higher quality probiotic supplements, including Culturelle, Seed, and Jarrow Formulas. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, L. reuteri and Bifidobacterium species.

To maximize probiotic benefits, Haque recommends considering high CFUs around 40 billion or more , multiple strains greater than two , and products from reputable manufacturers.

Lastly, Haque highlights the importance of also consuming prebiotic fiber and fermented foods to complement probiotic supplements, though consult your healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available.

VIEW ALL HISTORY. Probiotics contain live microorganisms that can support and enhance your healthy gut bacteria. This article reviews whether timing matters when it…. Eating fermented foods with live probiotics can have powerful benefits for your body and brain.

Here is a list of 11 super healthy probiotic foods. Probiotics can improve your health. Learn how taking probiotics can benefit weight loss, heart health, digestion, immune function and more.

After speaking with their pediatrician, consider one of these 7…. Probiotics come in both refrigerated and shelf-stable varieties. This article explains whether you should keep probiotics in the fridge or leave them…. Probiotics are beneficial in many ways.

In men, they can support gut function, urinary health, and even weight loss. Here are five products you might…. Prebiotics are types of fiber that feed your friendly gut bacteria, leading to all sorts of benefits.

Here are 19 healthy foods rich in prebiotics. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Nutrition Evidence Based 11 Best Probiotic Supplements for , According to Dietitians.

Provitalize Probiotics for Women Digestive Health, Menopause, Renew Life Womens Wellness, Womens Care Probiotic, 25 B. CFU, 30 ct. NewRhythm Probiotics 50 Billion CFU 20 Strains, 60 Veggie Capsules, Targeted Release Technology, Stomach Acid Resistant, No Need for Refrigeration, Non-GMO, Gluten Free.

Nature's Bounty Acidophilus Probiotic, Daily Probiotic Supplement, Supports Digestive Health, Twin Pack, Tablets. USDA Organic Liquid Probiotic by MaryRuth's Digestive Health Gut Health Probiotics for Women Probiotics for Men Probiotics for Kids Acidophilus Probiotic Vegan Non-GMO 40 Servings.

RepHresh Pro-B Probiotic Supplement for Women, 30 Oral Capsules. Renew Life Extra Care Digestive Probiotic Capsules, Daily Supplement Supports Immune, Digestive and Respiratory Health, L.

Rhamnosus GG, Dairy, Soy and gluten-free, 30 Billion CFU, 30 Count. OLLY Happy Hoo-Ha Capsules, Probiotic for Women, Vaginal Health and pH Balance, 10 Billion CFU, Gluten Free - 25 Count.

Nature's Bounty Acidophilus Probiotic, Daily Probiotic Supplement, Supports Digestive Health, 1 Pack, Tablets. Daily Probiotic Supplement with 40 Billion CFU - Gut Health Complex with Astragalus and Lactobacillus Acidophilus Probiotic for Women and Men - Shelf Stable Pre and Probiotics for Digestive Health.

Phillips' Colon Health Daily Probiotic Capsules, 4-in-1 Symptom Defense to help defend against Occasional Gas, Bloating, Constipation, and Diarrhea, Daily Supplement, 60 Count. MaryRuth Organics Kids Probiotics for Digestive Health, USDA Organic Probiotic Gummies, 2 Month Supply, for Kids, Immune Support, Gut Health Supplement, Vegan, Non-GMO, Gluten Free, 60 Count.

Earth's Pearl Probiotic Pearls for Women and Men - Kids Probiotic with Prebiotic Fiber - Daily Probiotic for Women and Men - Day Supply of Prebiotics and Probiotics for Women and Men Probiotic. Amazon Basics Probiotic 5 Billion CFU, 8 Probiotic strains with 60 mg Prebiotic Blend, 60 Vegetarian Capsules, 2 Month Supply, Supports Healthy Digestion Previously Solimo.

Hyperbiotics Pro 15 Vegan Probiotic Supplement Time Release Pearls 15 Diverse Strains Probiotics for Women and Men Digestive and Immune System Health Gluten and Dairy Free 60 Count.

Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Vaginal Care Shelf Stable - 50 Billion CFU Guaranteed Through Expiration, Acidophilus - Once Daily - Certified Gluten Free - No Refrigeration - 30 Vegetarian Capsules.

Stonehenge Health Probiotics 55 Billion CFU - 16 Strains, Prebiotic, Synbiotics Dynamic Biotics - Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Delayed Release, Shelf Stable, Non-GMO Gluten Free Veggie Capsule.

BioGaia Gastrus Chewable Tablets, Adult Probiotic Supplement for Stomach Discomfort, Constipation, Gas, Bloating, Regularity, Non-GMO, 30 Tablets, 1 Pack. Using a probiotic supplement is a great way to increase your intake of "good" bacteria and help naturally support your digestive balance and healthy gut flora.

Get health tips and education from our nutritional experts. Explore expert answers to some of the most frequently asked probiotics questions.

What do probiotics help with? How long does it take for probiotics to take effect? Do I need to refrigerate this? When does this product expire? Looking for a probiotic to support your digestive health?

Nature Made has a number of different probiotics for adults to support the digestive balance and healthy gut flora in your digestive tract. Whether you need to support your digestive health or you're trying to support digestive balance, our probiotic vitamins can help support digestive health and your overall immune health.

Not only can probiotics help regulate the digestive system, and work to support healthy bacteria. Probiotics help support normal digestive balance and keeps everything running how it should. We make it easy for you to find the perfect probiotic supplement for your needs.

From adult probiotic gummy vitamins to softgel capsules, our selection has everything you need to create a happy digestive tract and immune system.

Welcome to our store. Your Cart. Checkout Continue Shopping. Read more Read less. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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Digestive Support Probiotics.

Scientists have identified the genes in a certain probiotic bacteria that may help improve gut motility and relieve constipation. My podcast changed me Can 'biological race' explain disparities in health? Why Parkinson's research is zooming in on the gut Tools General Health Drugs A-Z Health Hubs Health Tools Find a Doctor BMI Calculators and Charts Blood Pressure Chart: Ranges and Guide Breast Cancer: Self-Examination Guide Sleep Calculator Quizzes RA Myths vs Facts Type 2 Diabetes: Managing Blood Sugar Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction Connect About Medical News Today Who We Are Our Editorial Process Content Integrity Conscious Language Newsletters Sign Up Follow Us.

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Benefits and uses Prebiotics Food sources FAQ Summary. How we vet brands and products Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?

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A note about sex and gender Sex and gender exist on spectrums. A quick look at the best probiotics. How we chose the best probiotics. Medical News Today chooses probiotics based on the following criteria: Colony forming units CFU : We include products with a high CFU stated clearly on the product.

Bacteria strains: We have chosen probiotics with different strains, including options with a blend of multiple bacteria strains. Safety: We include products that clearly state ideal use, including recommended dosage, when to take them, storage suggestions, and any contraindications.

Effectiveness: We select brands that outline possible timelines for seeing health benefits. Reputation: We only choose products from vetted brands that do not make unsubstantiated health claims or promises.

The best probiotics. Comparing the best probiotics. What are probiotics? Health benefits and uses for probiotics. Best food sources of probiotics. Frequently asked questions about probiotics.

What is the most effective form of probiotic? What are the best probiotics recommended by doctors? Who should not take a probiotic? Is Align really the best probiotic?

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Florastor® Daily Probiotic Supplement. FLORASTOR'S MODE OF ACTION. Primadophilus® Kids Probiotic. Primadophilus® Reuteri Probiotics. Primadophilus® Bifidus. Primadophilus® Reuteri Probiotic Powder. Out of stock. Out of stock Out of stock.

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Frequently Asked Questions What are probiotics good for?

Meet the Experts : Keri Gans, M. Rajapaksa says. Find all of our expert-recommended and reviewer-loved supplements that you can add to your routine below.

Dietary supplements are products intended to supplement the diet. They are not medicines and are not intended to treat, diagnose, mitigate, prevent, or cure diseases. Be cautious about taking dietary supplements if you are pregnant or nursing.

Also, be careful about giving supplements to a child, unless recommended by their healthcare provider. This ever-popular probiotic supplement is a favorite among gastroenterologists thanks to strains like Bifidobacterium , which supports healthy digestion and can help with occasional gas and bloating.

Rajapaksa says, and Amazon reviewers are big fans. This option has 10 strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium , which have well-documented benefits. One is Lactobacillus rhamnosus , a bacteria that research suggests can be beneficial for diarrhea, mood support , and even weight loss.

And unlike some probiotics, you can take it on an empty stomach. Men, meanwhile, can benefit from this Garden of Life probiotic supplement; this one promotes good digestion, ideal immunity, and proper bowel movements with 85 billion CFU of 31 probiotic strains. Just be sure to refrigerate them when they arrive.

This once-daily, no-refrigeration-needed probiotic packs in 16 strains of friendly bacteria to support good digestion, boost your immune health, and support a healthy environment for vaginal flora —the total package for women.

One reviewer even credits it with helping her resolve her lingering bacterial vaginosis. and it has the quickest and the most effective results. This subscription-based supplement offers 12 Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria probiotic strains shown to support healthy gut flora.

Best of all? The daily dose is just one capsule. As we age, the amount of Bifidobacterium species in our gut decreases, per a study —but this supplement is designed to fight back. Another big bonus is its fermented botanical blend, which includes black pepper, ginger root, and turmeric root to further support digestion.

The combo of Lactobacillus strains, Bifidobacterium strains, vitamin C, and ceramides in this probiotic supplement work to balance your gut—and help your skin look its best. Rajapaksa, who formulated the probiotics herself. Another favorite of Dr.

Choose the right bacteria. General-use supplements should contain well-researched strains; Lactobacillus , Bifidobacterium , and Saccharomyces boulardii have been studied the most, Dr. Ask your doctor about strains that have been shown to be particularly helpful.

Look for a few key extras. A good supplement has time-release technology and delivers a dose of prebiotics —fibers that act as food for probiotic bacteria. Another important extra is third-party certification; seek out a seal of approval from groups like Consumer Lab, NSF International, or the U.

Pharmacopeial Convention USP , which ensures the product has been tested for quality, purity, potency, and ingredients. Probiotics can improve your health in more ways than one. Here are a few benefits that have been backed by research:. According to the Cleveland Clinic , some conditions that could be improved with increased probiotics include:.

Anyone can regularly consume foods high in probiotics for a healthy gut and probiotics are recommended for people who have gut issues, says Prest. When it comes to supplements, one of the most common reasons to take a probiotic is because you are experiencing digestive issues, says Keri Gans, M.

Probiotics are helpful for bowel regularity, particularly for loose or runny stools, adds Prest. Another reason a person may wish to start on a probiotic is to help maintain their immune health, says Gans.

It depends on the antibiotic and the timing of taking the probiotic, says Prest. When treating a specific health condition, there may be a particular probiotic strain that is most effective, says Prest. If you experience any significant health issues or experience side effects after starting a probiotic, like bloating, vomiting, or diarrhea, it is best to seek medical care right away.

Your doctor can help determine the root cause of your symptoms, and let you know if you continue the use of your probiotic. Shannen Zitz is an Assistant Editor at Prevention, where she covers all things lifestyle, wellness, beauty, and relationships.

Previously the Editorial Assistant at Prevention, she graduated from the State University of New York at Cortland with a bachelor's degree in English. When Is the Best Time to Take Zinc? The Best Time to Take Vitamins. Is Pre-Workout Bad for You? Experts Explain.

The Best Collagen Powders for Skin and Nails. Can You Take Berberine for Weight Loss? The Best Iron Supplements. Dietitian-Approved Foods High in Vitamin D. com Medical Review Board Prevention Awards Win. Skip to Content Health Beauty Fitness Nutrition Life.

sign in. BEST WALKING SHOES VALENTINE'S GIFTS FOR HER VALENTINE'S GIFTS FOR HIM BEST HAMSTRING STRETCHES HEALTHY SMOOTHIE RECIPES. Best probiotic for women Garden of Life Dr. But we are still learning to understand how probiotics may promote health. Some studies that suggest if you take a probiotic while taking antibiotics, you're less likely to get diarrhea caused by the antibiotic.

Probiotics may also reduce the number of colds you'll have in a year. Probiotics are commonly used to reduce gastrointestinal symptoms that are not due to acute illness, such as gas, bloating, and constipation.

But we need more studies to determine who will get symptom improvement, particularly in older people. Many types of probiotics are on the market. Some have been well studied, and some haven't.

One theoretical risk of probiotics is if someone has an immune system weakened by illness or medication, that person could get sick from probiotics.

Another concern about probiotics is that they're considered dietary supplements, not drugs. As a result, the FDA doesn't monitor the manufacture of probiotics. It's not clear if probiotics that can be bought at pharmacies and health food stores are high-quality products.

It's even possible that some lower-quality products may not even contain the probiotic bacteria that are listed on the label. Plain Greek yogurt is a good source of probiotics.

Sweeten the taste with fresh berries, which are rich in antioxidants and fiber.