11 Best Probiotics for Bloating 2024, According to Digestive Experts
<p>If you struggle with digestive issues, you may have heard that taking a probiotic can help. This daily supplement helps regulate your gut health, which can help with cramping, IBS, gas, and bloating. The uncomfortable feeling of an overly full stomach after eating a big meal is never fun, but sufferers of this kind of gastrointestinal distress should know there are ways to manage these symptoms. Along with exercise and dietary changes (check out the <a href=” target=”_blank”>best foods for bloating</a>, if you’re curious!), taking a supplement can help. But how does someone go about finding find the <a href=” target=”_blank”>best probiotics</a> for bloating? </p><p>“Probiotics are beneficial bacteria found in fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut that support digestive health by promoting a balance of ‘good’ bacteria in the gut,” says <a href=” target=”_blank”>Susan Hazels Mitmesser, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Science Officer at Nature Made</a>. “This balance can be disrupted by factors like stress or poor nutrition, but consuming probiotics through food or supplements can help maintain digestive health and regularity.”</p><p class=”body-tip”><strong>Meet the Experts: </strong>Keri Gans, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian and author of <a href=” target=”_blank” data-vars-ga-outbound-link=” data-vars-ga-ux-element=”Hyperlink” data-vars-ga-call-to-action=”The Small Change Diet” data-vars-ga-product-id=”41c1d2b3-3e36-481d-a326-117e41fa7c5e” data-href=” data-product-url=” data-affiliate=”true” data-affiliate-url=” data-affiliate-network=”{"afflink_redirect":"/_p/afflink/V2nh/www-amazon-com-product-not-found-503-https-www-amazon-com-dp-b0058m64go-linkcode-ogi-tag-prevention-auto-20-ascsubtag-5bartid-7c2141-g-35351378-5bsrc-7c-5bch-7c-5blt-7csale-5bpid-7cbff276cc-1527-4803-95a4-ff7a24df118e","site_id":"d55f98dc-cbd6-4679-ae11-243969f8c772","network":"name":"Amazon","metadata":{"links":{"default":" data-vars-ga-product-price=”$0.00″ data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=”87a4ee9c-cf75-4112-8649-98b2d21cc8ee” data-vars-ga-link-treatment=”(not set) | (not set)” data-vars-ga-axid=”df2dc638-39dc-40cb-bf31-94a009323210″ rel=”noskim” data-amazon-ascsubtag=”[artid|2141.a.19804935[src|www.google.com[ch|[lt|[pid|41c1d2b3-3e36-481d-a326-117e41fa7c5e[axid|df2dc638-39dc-40cb-bf31-94a009323210[ofsxid|pushly_notifications_prv[ofsvid|active”><em><u>The Small Change Diet</u></em></a>; <a href=” target=”_blank”>Haleh Pazwash, M.D.</a>, a double board-certified gastroenterologist at the Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey; and <a href=” target=”_blank”>Susan Hazels Mitmesser, Ph.D.</a>, Senior Vice President and Chief Science Officer at Nature Made.</p><p>According to Keri Gans, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian and author of <a href=” target=”_blank” data-vars-ga-outbound-link=” data-vars-ga-ux-element=”Hyperlink” data-vars-ga-call-to-action=”The Small Change Diet” data-vars-ga-product-id=”41c1d2b3-3e36-481d-a326-117e41fa7c5e” data-href=” data-product-url=” data-affiliate=”true” data-affiliate-url=” data-affiliate-network=”{"afflink_redirect":"/_p/afflink/V2nh/www-amazon-com-product-not-found-503-https-www-amazon-com-dp-b0058m64go-linkcode-ogi-tag-prevention-auto-20-ascsubtag-5bartid-7c2141-g-35351378-5bsrc-7c-5bch-7c-5blt-7csale-5bpid-7cbff276cc-1527-4803-95a4-ff7a24df118e","site_id":"d55f98dc-cbd6-4679-ae11-243969f8c772","network":"name":"Amazon","metadata":{"links":{"default":" data-vars-ga-product-price=”$0.00″ data-vars-ga-product-retailer-id=”87a4ee9c-cf75-4112-8649-98b2d21cc8ee” data-vars-ga-link-treatment=”(not set) | (not set)” data-vars-ga-axid=”df2dc638-39dc-40cb-bf31-94a009323210″ rel=”noskim” data-amazon-ascsubtag=”[artid|2141.a.19804935[src|www.google.com[ch|[lt|[pid|41c1d2b3-3e36-481d-a326-117e41fa7c5e[axid|df2dc638-39dc-40cb-bf31-94a009323210[ofsxid|pushly_notifications_prv[ofsvid|active”><em><u>The Small Change Diet</u></em></a>, the <a href=” target=”_blank”>benefits of probiotics</a> include maintaining gut, immune, and oral health—including helping with specific digestive issues like bloating and gas. “Probiotics can help reduce bloating by introducing ‘good’ bacteria into your gut to help with your digestive process,” explains <a href=” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Haleh Pazwash, M.D.</a>, a double board-certified gastroenterologist at the Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey. </p><p>It’s not always easy to get probiotics through food alone, though—in which case, experts may recommend taking supplements. “[Probiotic supplements] can provide you with higher concentrations of bacteria that you might not be getting from your daily diet,” says Dr. Pazwash. But which specific ones should you opt for? Our experts recommend paying close attention to the strain, as well as the number of CFUs (or colony forming units), which indicate the number of live bacteria or potency of the probiotic. </p><p>Keep reading to see what digestive professionals want you to know about the best probiotics for bloating—so you can have a healthier, happier gut in no time.</p><p><em>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.</em><br></p>”/>
When it comes to probiotics for bloating, both Gans and Dr. Pazwash recommend VSL #3. “It is one of the most researched brands for IBS [or irritable bowel syndrome], contains eight different strains, has one of the highest CFU counts available, and is dairy-free,” notes Gans. In fact, according to the brand, it’s the number one gastroenterologist-recommended multi-strain probiotic brand and is scientifically formulated for the dietary management of IBS and ulcerative colitis.
The formula contains a whopping 112.5 billion CFUs of eight different probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium infantis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus—three strains that research has found to help reduce bloating, according to Gans.
Reviewers attest to it, too: “I pop one right before bed, and I wake up without any bloating and my gut feels better the next day,” one shopper said. “Would recommend as it appears to be treating my gut well!”
| Active strain | 8 strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium infantis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 capsules as needed, up to 4 times a day |
| CFU Count | 112.5 billion |
2
Best Value Probiotic for Bloating
Culturelle Digestive Daily Probiotic
Pros
- Affordable
- Easy to swallow capsule
- Gluten-free and vegetarian
Cons
- Some reviewers mention possible allergic reactions
If you’re looking for an affordable pick that you can find at most drugstores, Culturelle has you covered. Their Digestive Daily Probiotic “contains 10 billion CFU [of] Lactobacillus rhamnosus,” notes Dr. Pazwash. This well-researched strain works to keep your digestive system in balance and helps relieve occasional digestive upset, including diarrhea, gas, and bloating. And did we mention it’s only $17 a box? Unsurprisingly it boasts over 7,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.
“Cost effective and proven! This is the only probiotic I have taken where I actually feel like I get relief from it! After a few days my general bloating and discomfort go away,” one reviewer said.
| Active strain | Lactobacillus rhamnosus |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 10 billion |
3
Best Probiotic for Bloating With IBS
Align Probiotic Pro Formula
Pros
- Unique strain developed by gastroenterologists
- Easy to swallow capsule
- Vegetarian and gluten-free
Cons
- Low CFUs
If you struggle with bloating from IBS, try out Align’s Pro Formula. It’s our pick for the best overall probiotic for IBS, and comes highly recommended by gastroenterologists, including Dr. Pazwash. “[Align] is unique because it has a specific strain, Bifidobacterium longum infantis 35624. This is supposed to help with IBS and bloating, gas, and discomfort,” she says. “It is also easy to take because it is a one daily supplement and does not have to be refrigerated.”
The supplement also has an impressive 4.6 rating from over 8,000 shoppers on Amazon. “It’s like a miracle drug for my IBS!” one reviewer claimed. “Align is the one probiotic that clears up my IBS symptoms so that I can eat pretty much whatever I want. Without the Align, my symptoms are debilitating…I’m doubled-over in excruciating pain and beyond bloated. When I take Align everyday, my symptoms are nonexistent!”
| Active strain | Bifidobacterium longum infantis |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 1 billion |
4
Best Probiotic for Bloating With Other Symptoms
Nature Made Digestive Probiotics Advanced Dual Action
Now 36% Off
Pros
- Helps support healthy gut flora in both upper and lower intestines
- Good for multiple symptoms
- Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian
Cons
- Reviewers note some side effects at first
These supplements provide two high-quality, clinically-studied bacteria strains to help support healthy gut flora, says Mitmesser, who is the Senior Vice President and Chief Science Officer at Nature Made. “Lactobacillus plantarum works in the small intestine to naturally help relieve occasional gas, bloating and abdominal discomfort. Bifidobacterium lactis works in the large intestine to naturally help relieve occasional constipation and irregularity,” she explains. “This dual-action probiotic is gentle enough for everyday use to receive the best results.”
It comes highly rated by reviewers, too. “I started taking this to help with gas and bloating associated with my IBS, not really expecting much…However, I was amazed by how well this worked not only on the gas, but also on my chronic constipation,” wrote one shopper. “I love this probiotic, [though] it did take about two weeks for me to adjust to it.”
| Active strain | Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium lactis |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 15 billion |
5
Best Probiotic for Bloating With Prebiotics
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
Pros
- Also contains prebiotics
- High CFUs
- Vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free
Cons
- Subscription required for best price
Seed’s Daily Synbiotic offers a two-in-one formula that contains a whopping 24 strains of both probiotics and prebiotics. According to our probiotic vs. prebiotic explainer, prebiotics are food components that help good gut microbes bacteria grow and work better. The outer capsule of these Seed supplements contain the prebiotics, which come from punicalagins concentrated from Indian pomegranate, while the inner capsule delivers 53.6 billion CFUs of scientifically studied probiotic strains that promote digestive health.
“Wow, I am blown away after just three days. This is the first probiotic I’ve ever taken, and I can definitely see what the hype is about,” raved a reviewer. “I don’t feel bloated at all (during my menstrual cycle which is wild), my tummy doesn’t hurt at all, and digestion is on point.”
| Active strain | 24 strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Bifidobacterium infantis |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily for first three days, then increase to full dose of 2 capsules daily |
| CFU Count | 53.6 billion |
6
Best Probiotic for Bloating and Diarrhea
Florastor Advanced Gas & Bloat Probiotic and Digestive Supplement
Pros
- Can be taken with antibiotics
- Contains digestive enzymes and botanicals
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian
Cons
- 2 capsules per day
“Florastor is different because it offers a yeast-based (rather than bacteria-based) strains,” notes Dr. Pazwash. “Mainly it contains Saccharomyces boulardii, which makes it resistant to antibiotics. This would make it a good choice to use when taking antibiotic-associated diarrhea. Since it is a yeast, it can survive when antibiotics are being used.”
Along with the yeast-based strain, these supplements also contain digestive enzymes and botanicals—including ginger, fennel seed, and peppermint leaf—to help support digestive health while protecting against occasional gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
“After incorporating this supplement into my daily routine, I’ve experienced a significant reduction in gas and bloating, which has been a huge relief,” one reviewer said. “The capsules are easy to take, and I started feeling the benefits within just a few days.”
| Active strain | Saccharomyces boulardii |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 capsules 1-2 times daily |
| CFU Count | N/A |
7
Best Formulated Probiotic for Bloating
Unbloat Anti-Bloat Pills
Pros
- Packed with 40 natural ingredients for a healthy gut
- Contains prebiotic fibers and digestive enzymes
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan
Cons
- Pricey
These supplements were specifically formulated with doctors to help reduce bloating, in addition to aiding in digestion, avoiding the buildup of uncomfortable gases, and improving overall gut health. They contain 40 all-natural ingredients that all contribute to your gut health—including seven key probiotics, 21 digestive enzymes, and two prebiotic fibers. It also contains herbal remedies and essential nutrients, like peppermint, ginger root, milk thistle, and more.
Amazon reviewers rave that Unbloat truly yields results. “I have IBS and could not find anything that could help with the horrible gas and bloating I get, but this product is a game changer. My belly is flatter, the gas is more controlled,” one shopper shared.
| Active strain | 7 strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 capsules daily |
| CFU Count | 21 billion |
8
Best Probiotic for Bloating With Prebiotics and Postbiotics
Ritual Synbiotic+
Pros
- Also contains prebiotics and postbiotics
- Easy to swallow capsules
- Non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan
Cons
- Pricey
Ritual’s three-in-one formula doesn’t just contain 11 billion CFUs of two clinically-studied probiotics—it also contains both prebiotics and postbiotics for comprehensive, synbiotic support of gut health. The prebiotics in the formula help target undesirable bacteria in the gut and promote the growth of “good” bacteria, while postbiotics provide fuel to the cells that make up the gut lining and support gut barrier function. All three come together in one daily, easy-to-swallow capsule to support a balanced gut microbiome.
Many Amazon shoppers swear by these supplements. “I’ve struggled with digestive issues for years, constantly having bloating, irregularity, and discomfort,” one reviewer shared. “However, ever since incorporating this probiotic into my daily routine, my gut health has improved so much. I no longer have to worry about that uncomfortable feeling after meals.”
| Active strain | Bifidobacterium anamalis ssp. lactis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 11 billion |
9
Best Reviewed Probiotic for Bloating
Physician’s Choice 60 Billion Probiotic
Now 18% Off
Pros
- Contains three organic prebiotic fibers
- Rave reviews on Amazon
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
Cons
- Reviewers note unpleasant side effects
These probiotic supplements from Physician’s Choice are formulated with 60 billion CFUs of ten diverse probiotic strains as well as three organic prebiotic fibers to help support your gut health and relieve occasional constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating. They come in delayed-release, acid-resistant capsules that ensure your probiotics survive the journey to the gut.
The pick is a best-seller on Amazon, boasting a 4.5 rating from over a whopping 121,000 shoppers. “I’ve been using this probiotic for a month, and it’s made a noticeable difference in my digestive health. The capsules are easy to swallow and have no taste, and within a week, I felt less bloated and more regular,” one reviewer wrote.
| Active strain | 10 strains, including Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 60 billion |
10
Best Gummy Probiotics for Bloating
Nature Made Digestive Probiotics and Energy B12 Gummies
Now 45% Off
Pros
- Also contains vitamin B12
- Comes in chewable gummy form
- Good flavor
Cons
- Low CFU
If you have trouble swallowing pills, these gummies are a great way to still get your daily dosage of probiotics—as well as your serving of vitamin B12, which plays essential roles in energy production within your body. “[They’re] perfect for adults who want a tastier, more pleasant way to take probiotics for gut health support,” says Mitmesser. “These delicious raspberry and cherry flavored gummies provide 4 billion live bacteria cells of Bacillus coagulans IS-2 that naturally help support digestive health and 1000 mcg of Vitamin B12 to support cellular energy production.”
“These are easy to chew and have a great flavor with no strong aftertaste,” an Amazon customer said. “I’ve noticed that my stomach has tolerated these really well and that they have really helped my digestion. I like that they have a healthy dose of B12 as well!”
| Active strain | Bacillus coagulans |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 2 gummies daily |
| CFU Count | 4 billion |
11
Best Probiotic for Bloating With Digestive Enzymes
Digestive Advantage Daily Probiotics + Intensive Bowel Support
Now 26% Off
Digestive Advantage’s daily probiotics contains 1 billion CFUs of a patented probiotic strain, bacilius coagulans, along with three types of digestive enzymes to help relieve occasional bloating, improve abdominal discomfort, promote digestive balance, and even support immune health. They come in easy-to-swallow capsules, which the brand claims survive stomach acid 100 times better than yogurt and other leading probiotics.
This probiotic has racked up over 6,000 five-star ratings on Amazon. “These capsules have been a godsend for me. I have suffered from IBS-D for most of my life. The cramps and bloating can be debilitating at times,” wrote one user. “These capsules, taken once daily with a meal, provide me with some much needed relief. After two weeks I could really feel a difference.”
| Active strain | Bacilius coagulans |
|---|---|
| Dosage | 1 capsule daily |
| CFU Count | 1 billion |
How to choose the best probiotics for bloating
✔️ Opt for third-party-tested supplements from a reputable brand. “It is important to note that most over-the counter probiotics are not FDA-approved because they have not been studied in clinical trials,” says Dr. Pazwash. That’s why you always want to make sure that you’re purchasing them from a reputable brand. Ideally, you should also opt for supplements that are third-party-tested. “[It’s important] to buy from a reputable company that conducts ongoing clinical research,” says Gans.
✔️ Choose the right strain. There are countless different kinds of probiotic strains out there—and you’ll want to find ones that are “clinically studied for the intended health benefit,” says Mitmesser. The most well-studied strains, according to Dr. Pazwash, are Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. “Research has shown that strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium infantis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus may be best to decrease bloating,” says Gans.
✔️ Consider the CFU count. Probiotics are measured in CFUs, or colony forming units, which represent the number of live bacteria per dose. A higher number does not necessarily mean better results, but it may be more effective for certain conditions. Gans says it’s ideal to opt for a minimum of 25 billion for general gut health, and a minimum of 100 billion for IBS patients or patients seeing a gastroenterologist.
✔️ Check for other ingredients, like prebiotics. Some probiotic supplements also contain prebiotics, which promotes the growth of “good” gut microbes and may enhance the effectiveness of probiotics. Additionally, if you have certain dietary restrictions or health conditions, you should always check the label to verify that the probiotic is free of gluten, lactose, allergens, or any other potentially unwanted ingredients.
Which probiotic is best for bloating?
“Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are the most well-studied probiotics,” says Dr. Pazwash. While more research is needed to discover which specifics strains, or combinations of strains, is most effective for bloating, studies have shown that the strains of Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium infantis, and Lactobacillus acidophilus are beneficial for reducing bloating symptoms, says Gans.
Are there any risks to taking a probiotic for bloating?
Our experts say that probiotic supplements are generally safe, however, they may come with side effects when you take them—especially at the beginning. “It is important to note that some patients do experience more bloating when taking probiotics,” says Dr. Pazwash. “It can take a few weeks to work, so patience is needed to see results.”
In instances where taking probiotics increases bloating, Gans recommends trying to decrease the dose to see if that makes a difference in side effects—and always consult your primary care physician or gastroenterologist before starting. Those with severe illness or compromised immune systems in particular should always make sure to check with their doctors about use of probiotics, advises Dr. Pazwash.
How we chose the best probiotics for bloating
We consulted Keri Gans, M.S., R.D., registered dietitian and author of The Small Change Diet; Haleh Pazwash, M.D., a double board-certified gastroenterologist at the Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey; and Susan Hazels Mitmesser, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Science Officer at Nature Made. Additionally, we pored through product descriptions, labels, and user reviews to find the best probiotics for bloating.
Why trust us
For more than 70 years, Prevention has been a leading provider of trustworthy health information, empowering readers with practical strategies to improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Our editors interview medical experts to help guide our health-focused product selections. Additionally, Prevention also examines hundreds of reviews—and often conducts personal testing done by our staff—to help you make informed decisions.
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