We Asked 12 RDs Which Probiotics Are the Best for Weight Loss: Their Answers, Revealed
The 10 Best Probiotics for Weight Loss
- Best for women: Culturelle Probiotics Women’s 4-in-1 Protection
- Best for men: Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS
- Best for menopausal weight loss: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Women’s
- Best for gut health: Metagenics UltraFlora Control
- Best for bloating: Align Probiotic Bloating Relief + Food Digestion
- Best for vegetarians: Future Kind+ 30 Billion Vegan Probiotic
- Best budget: NOW Foods Probiotic-10
- Best high-potency: Visbiome GI Care High Potency Probiotic
- Best subscription: Ritual Synbiotic+
- Best powder: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Fitbiotic
When to Consult Your Doctor
Like all supplements, probiotics are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and therefore are not always held to the same high safety and efficacy standards as prescription medications. “The data on using probiotics for weight loss is still in its early stages, but in general probiotics are safe for most healthy people,” says Jen Scheinman, RDN, owner of Next Jen Health in Ossining, New York. However, there are some people who should proceed with caution, including those with a malabsorption disorder called short gut syndrome, as well as those who are immunocompromised. In addition, women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive should speak to their doctor, as there’s not enough research on probiotic supplement safety in these groups. The products and information presented in this article are not intended to replace a doctor’s advice. Everyday Health recommends that you consult with your healthcare team before taking any new supplements.

Best for Women
Culturelle Probiotics Women’s 4-in-1 Protection
Pros
- Research-studied strains for women’s health
- Contains added prebiotics
- Special lining to preserve freshness
- CGMP-compliant
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Some dislike the taste
- May cause bloating or stomach upset
Key Specs
- CFU count: 15 billion
- Probiotic strains: Five lactobacillus strains
- Other ingredients: Prebiotic blend of four prebiotics
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes
These Culturelle capsules are also packaged with a special desiccant (a drying agent that is made of materials like silica gel or calcium oxide) lining to absorb moisture and protect the viability of the live bacteria present. Culturelle probiotics are audited regularly by NSF International, a reputable third-party testing company that certifies a supplement’s quality and safety. They are also produced in compliance with the FDA’s Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMP), which ensures that the highest quality control measures are met. The brand is also well respected within the healthcare community for its high-quality ingredients, manufacturing processes, and stringent product testing.

Best for Men
Jarrow Formulas Jarro-Dophilus EPS
Pros
- Contains strains that can support men’s health
- Added protective coating to support absorption
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Cannot buy from manufacturer
- Not allergen-friendly
Key Specs
- CFU count: 10 billion
- Probiotic strains: Eight lacticaseibacillus and bifidobacterium strains
- Other ingredients: None
- Serving size: Two capsules
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes

Best for Menopausal Weight Loss
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Women’s
Pros
- Research-studied strains for menopausal women
- Includes probiotics
- Third-party tested
- Made from whole foods
Cons
- Bottle cap can be hard to open
- May cause cramping and gas
Key Specs
- CFU count: 50 billion
- Probiotic strains: 16 lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains
- Other ingredients: N/A
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes
The Garden of Life brand is doctor-formulated and third-party-tested by NSF, one of the most reputable third-party testing bodies. If you’re looking for help maintaining a healthy weight during menopause, this product is a quality option.

Best for Gut Health
Metagenics UltraFlora Control
Pros
- Research-studied strain for gut health
- Easy to swallow capsules
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Most expensive on our list
- Some report gas and bloating
Key Specs
- CFU count: 10 billion
- Probiotic strains: Bifidobacterium lactis B420
- Other ingredients: N/A
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes

Best for Bloating
Align Probiotic Bloating Relief + Food Digestion
Pros
- Contains clinically studied strain for bloating
- Includes digestive enzyme blend
- Added B12 to break down food
- Dairy-free, gluten-free
Cons
- May cause gas in some
- Not third-party tested
Key Specs
- CFU count: One billion
- Probiotic strains: Bifidobacterium longum 35624
- Other ingredients: B12, digestive enzyme blend
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: No
This supplement also contains vitamin B12, which may help break down food to ease digestion. Promoting optimal digestion and absorption of food after meals can also help you feel more full and satisfied, which can support weight loss. It’s important to note this probiotic is not third-party tested, but the manufacturer states that they complete DNA testing to confirm the identity and quality of their products.

Best for Vegetarians
Future Kind+ Vegan 30 Billion Probiotic
Pros
- 100 percent vegan
- Research-studied strains for weight loss
- CGMP-certified
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Some customers report delayed shipping, poor customer service
Key Specs
- CFU count: 30 billion
- Probiotic strains: 10 lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains
- Other ingredients: Medium-chain triglycerides
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes

Best Budget
NOW Foods Probiotic-10
Pros
- Most affordable on our list
- Research-studied strains for weight loss
- CGMP-certified
- Third-party tested
- Easy-to-swallow capsule
Cons
- Top doesn’t seal tightly
- May cause cramps or constipation
- Product can be delivered too warm
Key Specs
- CFU count: 25 billion
- Probiotic strains: Lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, and S. thermophilus
- Other ingredients: N/A
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes
This product is also unique in that the probiotic strains have been identity-verified using DNA fingerprinting technology, ensuring accuracy in labeling. “I recommend NOW Foods Probiotic-10 for its variety of live probiotic strains that are known to naturally thrive in the digestive tract,” says Gaw. She notes that NOW Foods supplements are among her favorites to recommend, since they are CGMP certified and, therefore, trusted for potency and stability.
However, some customers noted that the product may be delivered too warm, which could affect the viability of the bacteria it contains. To reduce this risk, it’s best to try to be home when the product is delivered, so that you can quickly transfer the bottle to a cool, dry place. It is also dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free.

Best High-Potency
Visbiome GI Care High Potency Probiotic
Pros
- Highest CFU count on our list
- Research-studied strains for weight loss
- Low FODMAP–certified
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Contains milk
- May cause bloating or gas
Key Specs
- CFU count: 112.5 billion
- Probiotic strains: Eight lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains
- Other ingredients: N/A
- Serving size: One to four capsules
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes
We appreciate that this supplement is third-party tested and Clean Label Project Certified, a rigorous testing and certification program that ensures that the highest purity and quality standards are met. It’s also low FODMAP–certified, which means it’s low in certain carbohydrates, or FODMAPs, that can trigger digestive upset in those with gastrointestinal conditions like IBS. “For those with IBS, Visbiome provides strains of lactic acid bacteria specifically studied to reduce symptoms and rebuild the gut microbiome,” says Caitlin Beale, RDN, owner of Caitlin Beale Wellness in San Francisco.
This product contains milk and lactose, however, so it’s not suitable for people with lactose intolerance or a milk allergy. It’s also important to note that to maintain its potency, this probiotic needs to be refrigerated. Since it has a much higher potency than the others on our list, the manufacturer considers it a medical food that should only be used under direct medical supervision.

Best Subscription
Ritual Synbiotic+
Pros
- Convenient subscription service
- Clinically studied strains to reduce appetite
- Contains pro-, pre-, and postbiotics
- Third-party tested
Cons
- Very minty taste
- May cause gas and bloating
Key Specs
- CFU count: 11 billion
- Probiotic strains: L. rhamnosus, B. animalis ssp. lactis
- Other ingredients: Prebiotics, postbiotics
- Serving size: One capsule
- Form: Capsules
- Third-party tested: Yes
The website’s signup process is simple and straightforward. You can sign up for a monthly subscription of probiotics, plus other supplements that may be recommended for you based on your health goals. Ritual supplements are third-party tested, and the company employs a scientific advisory board composed of medical doctors, registered dietitians, and scientists who perform ongoing research to further ensure the optimal safety, quality, and effectiveness of its products. Ritual values transparency, and its synbiotic is “Made Traceable,” which means the company shares where its ingredients come from on its Traceable Ingredients page. The trifecta of pro-, pre-, and postbiotics help make Ritual’s Synbiotic+ a well-rounded option to include in your health routine.

Best Powder
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Fitbiotic
Pros
- Unflavored with good mixability
- Several research-studied strains for weight loss
- Contains prebiotics
- Third-party tested
Cons
- May cause cramps or constipation
- Some reported poor taste
Key Specs
- CFU count: 50 billion
- Probiotic strains: 14 lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains
- Other ingredients: Prebiotics
- Serving size: One packet
- Form: Powder
- Third-party tested: Yes
If you prefer a probiotic powder that you can sneak into your favorite beverage, Garden of Life’s Dr. Formulated Probiotics Fitbiotic contains a blend of several clinically tested strains for weight loss, as well as 4 grams of prebiotic fiber per packet to help keep you full. It’s also unflavored, which makes it easier to mix into your preferred beverage, smoothie, or protein shake without altering the taste. Customers report that it mixes into beverages easily, without clumping, further lending to its appeal.
Comparison Table
How We Chose the Best Probiotics for Weight Loss
Here at Everyday Health, we research supplements extensively in order to properly vet the products we recommend. When screening the best probiotic supplements to support weight loss, I relied on my 18 years of experience as a registered dietitian to help me evaluate each product’s overall characteristics, including quality, taste, and effectiveness. We also consulted with other nutrition experts and members of the Everyday Health team to gather their unique insights and expertise.
Here are the specific characteristics we used to find the best options for our list:
- Research-studied strains
- Number of colony-forming units, or CFUs
- Prebiotic strains
- Probiotics
- Third-party testing or certifications
- Any additional ingredients
Here are the nutrition experts we consulted for additional expertise:
- Sheri Gaw, RDN, CDCES
- Jen Scheinman, RDN
- Emily Hirsch, RD, LDN
- Katherine Brooking, RD
- Julie Wallace, RD
- Elena Usdenski, RD
- Alex Evink, RD
- Lauren Panoff, MPH, RD
- Caitlin Beale, RDN
- Lisa Andrews, RD
- Kim Kulp, RDN
- Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN
What to Look for in a Probiotic for Weight Loss
To find the best probiotic supplement for your weight-loss journey, consider these important factors:
Intended use: Pay special attention to the product’s claims and its specific strains to see if they align with your health needs. “Multiple strains are better than single-strain probiotics. Ask your dietitian which strain might be beneficial to your condition,” says Lisa Andrews, RD, owner of Sound Bites Nutrition in Cincinnati. “And when choosing a probiotic supplement for weight loss, look for supplements that contain strains that have been shown to be effective for weight loss, such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium,” adds Hirsch.
Ingredients: Review the ingredient list carefully, and steer clear of supplements with artificial fillers, preservatives, and other additives.
Third-party testing: When choosing a supplement, it’s important to look for verification of third-party testing, such as United States Pharmacopeia or National Sanitation Foundation certification, to ensure that the product meets safety and quality standards.
Research transparency: “The first thing I like to look at is if the company can provide you with any studies to back up the claims they are making. And double-check that those studies are done in humans,” says Scheinman. While there is some preliminary research on probiotics for weight loss, the research is still in the early stages. More research is needed to determine the best strains, doses, and populations in which taking probiotics could produce weight loss effects.
FAQs
“If you try probiotics as part of a weight loss plan, don’t expect to see results for a while. The research shows it can take up to six months, and you may only lose a few pounds,” says Kim Kulp, RDN, owner of Gut Health Connection in San Francisco.
Yes. “Try to incorporate probiotic-containing foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut,” says Bonnie Taub-Dix, RDN, host of the Media Savvy Podcast and creator of BetterThanDieting.com. She recommends trying foods first, then supplements.
B. lactis and L. gasseri strains have been associated with reduced waist circumference and abdominal fat loss after at least 12 weeks of use.
Why Trust Everyday Health

Julie Cunningham, MPH, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Medical Reviewer
Julie Cunningham has been a registered dietitian for more than 25 years. She is a certified diabetes care and education specialist (CDCES) and an international board-certified lactation consultant. She has served as the president of the Foothills Chapter of the North Carolina Dietetics Association (NCDA) and has been a member of the executive board of the NCDA.
Ms. Cunningham received a bachelor's degree from Appalachian State University in North Carolina. She subsequently completed a master's degree in public health nutrition at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Ms. Cunningham has worked in women's and children's health, cardiology, and diabetes. She is the author of 30 Days to Tame Type 2 Diabetes, and she has also written for Abbott Nutrition News, Edgepark Medical Health Insights, diaTribe, Babylist, and others.
A resident of beautiful western North Carolina, Cunningham is an avid reader who enjoys yoga, travel, and all things chocolate.

Melissa Mitri, MS, RD
Author
Melissa Mitri is a registered dietitian-nutritionist, weight loss specialist, and expert health writer with over 18 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. She owns Melissa Mitri Nutrition, a virtual private practice helping women achieve sustainable weight loss.
Melissa is a freelance writer and editor for dietitians and wellness brands. She helps translate complicated scientific research into easy-to-understand terms for the public. Melissa has written for various publications and websites, such as HealthCanal, WellnessVerge, Nature Made, Garden of Life, the Avocado Board, and more.
Melissa believes everyone has the power to improve their health, one small habit at a time. Her approach to healthy eating focuses on what to eat more of for better health versus what to restrict or eliminate in the diet.
Melissa lives in Connecticut with her husband and two boys, where she enjoys training for half-marathons, reading, and traveling with her family.

Daniel Oakley
Fact-Checker
Daniel Oakley is a journalist, editor, and fact-checker. He has written, edited, taught, and produced media for Dow Jones, S&P Global, IHS Markit, Third Coast Studios Magazine, and 826 National.
Oakley's path has always been a health-and-wellness-focused one. A competitive triathlete and racing fundraiser for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, he also spends summer weekends as an ISA-certified surf instructor and Red Cross professional water rescuer with Laru Beya Collective in Rockaway Beach, which helps kids master and delight in their own backyard — the ocean. It has taught Oakley that “optimizing body and mind” flourishes precisely at the wellspring of community.
Lili Ladaga
Editor
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