“The Well Guardian” explains what lies behind the hype, what you need to watch out for, and which products are really worth your money.
From fatigue and digestive complaints to a weak immune system – there’s hardly an ailment for which a probiotic product isn’t promoted these days. They come in all forms, colors – and of course, price ranges. But what are probiotics, what are their functions, and – most importantly – how true are the often grandiose promises?
Summary
- Probiotics are products containing live microorganisms.
- The gut is now considered the center of our well-being.
- Bioma Health is the test winner in a comparison of several products.
How do Probiotics Work?
Probiotics are products with live microorganisms that settle in the gut and are supposed to “rehabilitate” the gut microbiome. This is why the term “gut rehabilitation” is often used in this context.
This is a health trend that is increasingly being observed. But what is its purpose?
First of all, the basics: Our gut is indeed an incredibly complex marvel because it not only ensures that the nutrients we absorb from food reach the right places in the body but is also responsible for about 80% of our body’s immune responses.
It is also connected to other organ systems. The gut-brain axis is currently a particular focus of scientific research. Studies on this connection between the gut microbiome and the brain have found indications that the gut might affect certain brain functions.
No wonder, then, that the gut is now considered the center of our well-being – or discomfort when it malfunctions. A balanced microbiome is a crucial condition for the gut to perform its functions properly. The microbiome refers to all the microorganisms in the gut.
These form a complex ecosystem, similar to a tropical rainforest. Just as the rainforest can only thrive when all the organisms living in it are in harmony, the same applies to the gut microbiome, which according to current research, consists of up to 100 trillion bacteria!
These bacteria can be divided into different strains, each with distinct properties and functions, similar to the different plant species in the rainforest example. Unfavorable external influences, such as a one-sided diet, stress, or certain medications, can lead to an overgrowth of some bacterial strains, while others are suppressed or the overall number of gut bacteria decreases.
This resulting imbalance is scientifically referred to as dysbiosis and is now associated with many health problems. Gut expert Dr. M. Reed
confirms this:
On first glance, it’s not obvious: Dysbiosis can also be behind symptoms of exhaustion.
This is precisely where probiotics aim to intervene.
The basic idea: Specific gut bacteria should be introduced to restore the gut microbiome to balance, thus optimally supporting the gut in performing its tasks – for overall better well-being. This sounds very plausible at first – but can it really work?
Benefits of Probiotics
- Gut health: Restoration of gut flora
- Allergy complaints: Reduction of allergies
- Mental health: Enhancement of mental health
- Immune system: Strengthening of the immune system
- General health: Improvement of overall well-being
Myths and Facts about Probiotics
As with any hype, numerous myths and claims quickly formed around the topic of probiotics, making it even more difficult to choose the right product. We examine the most widespread myths:
Myth 1: All probiotics are the same
- Fact 1: This myth can be answered with a clear "False."
The various products we examined differed significantly from each other. This was particularly noticeable in the number of bacterial strains tested, as well as in dosage and packaging. All these criteria ultimately determine a product’s quality. A tip: Stay away from overly cheap offers! Good foundational research, careful selection of strains, high dosage, and adequate packaging come at a price.
As a rule of thumb: You can find good to very good products for less than 1 euro per day.
Myth 2: Probiotics don't work because they are destroyed by stomach acid and thus don't reach the gut alive
- Fact 2: Not true.
Some bacteria, especially bifidobacteria and lactic acid bacteria, are resistant to stomach acid. While this might seem surprising at first, it is logical – after all, the bacteria already present in our gut, which we have ingested through our diet, have traveled the same path and reached our gut alive.
Myth 3: Probiotics provide hardly more bacteria than our regular diet
- Fact 3: This myth is also mostly false.
While some foods do have probiotic properties – yogurt, sauerkraut, and the currently popular Korean kimchi contain lactic acid bacteria – they usually contain only a few strains. It’s also important to note that many products are pasteurized, which kills bacteria (both bad and good). By the way, the amount of bacteria also varies greatly.
Good microculture preparations contain at least 20 billion colony-forming units (CFUs). The same amount is found in about 25 kilograms (!) of yogurt, which far exceeds everyday consumption.
Myth 4: The impact of the gut microbiome is overrated, so probiotics are nonsense
- Fact 4: Mostly false.
Numerous studies have shown the connection between the gut microbiome and health. For example, a research team from Chicago found that mice with weakened immune systems had a significantly higher survival rate after exposure to pathogens when they were given the microbiome, i.e., the microorganisms, from healthy mice (Kim, 2020). Similar studies exist on allergies (Hua, 2015) and fatigue (Fremont, 2013).
Myth 5: A good probiotic works immediately!
- Fact 5: More like no.
The idea behind probiotics is to support the gut microbiome in the long term. Considering how many bacteria our gut contains, it’s clear that significant success is unlikely to be achieved overnight. Although some people notice slight changes (especially in digestion) after the first week, gut experts, such as Dr. M. Reed from Boston, Massachusetts, recommend taking probiotics for at least 2 to 3 months.
What Makes a Good Microculture Preparation and Which Products Meet Our Standards?
Before we delve into the most important quality criteria, a note: The term “probiotic” is widely used but can no longer be used to advertise such products.
The editorial team has chosen the more appropriate term “microculture preparation.”
After extensive research, “The Well Guardian” identified the five most important quality criteria in collaboration with experts and then examined five well-known products based on these criteria.
Quality Criterion 1: The Number of Bacterial Strains Contained
A good microculture preparation tries to resemble the composition of a balanced human gut microbiome. However, a human gut doesn’t just host 3 to 10 different bacterial strains but many more. Accordingly, at least 50 different strains should be included.
Quality Criterion 2: The Dosage of Colony-Forming Units
While numbers like 2, 4, or 10 billion CFUs might sound impressive, a healthy gut contains 10 to 100 trillion bacteria. Products with too low a dosage don’t have enough impact to bring about a real change. Experts currently recommend products with at least 20 billion CFUs.
Quality Criterion 3: Support of the Gut Environment
For probiotics to be effective, they require a supportive gut environment where they can thrive and perform their functions. A healthy gut environment is essential for the growth and activity of beneficial bacteria. However, factors such as an unhealthy diet, stress, and certain medications can compromise this environment, making it difficult for probiotics to establish themselves.
Therefore, microculture preparations should include ingredients that not only introduce beneficial bacteria but also help create and maintain a favorable gut environment. Ingredients like prebiotics, which feed the good bacteria, and postbiotics, which support gut barrier integrity, are essential in fostering a conducive environment for the probiotics to work effectively.
This approach ensures that the gut environment is optimized, allowing the beneficial bacteria to thrive and contribute to better digestive health.
Quality Criterion 4: Capsule Technology
For any microculture preparation to be effective, the survival of live bacteria through the stomach to the intestines is crucial. The stomach’s acidic environment can destroy many of these delicate microorganisms before they reach their destination. This is why the technology used in the capsules themselves is so important.
Delayed-release capsules are specifically designed to protect the bacteria as they pass through the stomach, ensuring they remain intact and viable until they reach the gut. Without this technology, even the highest quality bacteria may not survive the journey, rendering the preparation far less effective.
Bioma.Health probiotics utilize this advanced capsule technology to ensure that the beneficial bacteria are delivered where they are needed most, maximizing their potential to support gut health and overall well-being.
Quality Criterion 5: Quality Standards and Certification
Unfortunately, there are few legal requirements for the production of microculture preparations. For this reason, many manufacturers advertise with certifications – which often only cover a minimum standard. Therefore, it is important to scrutinize the advertised certifications.
The highest standard is secured by production according to GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice), the standard for pharmaceutical production. Only with GMP-certified manufacturers can consumers be sure that the microculture preparations are made to this particularly high standard.
Based on these criteria, we examined five widely used products and came to the following conclusion...
Our test winner
Bioma Health
95/100
Overall Ranking:
Advantages:
- Contains a proprietary blend of essential probiotic strains including Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, and Bifidobacterium breve, designed to restore and maintain optimal gut health.
- Includes Xylooligosaccharides (XOS), a superior prebiotic that selectively feeds beneficial gut bacteria, fostering a balanced and healthy microbiome.
- Tributyrin is added to support the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and ensure a strong intestinal barrier.
- Packaged in durable plastic jars with advanced delayed-release capsules that protect probiotics from stomach acid, ensuring they reach the intestines alive.
- Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.
Disadvantages:
- While the capsules can be ordered from the company's shop, Amazon, and various online pharmacies, the manufacturer recently faced availability issues due to high demand.
Bioma.Health Probiotics is developed by a leading team of experts specializing in gut health and microbiome research. The brand has earned a strong reputation in the health and wellness community, thanks to its commitment to scientific rigor and innovation.
When examining Bioma.Health Probiotics more closely, it’s clear why it stands out in the market. The product contains a carefully selected blend of Bifidobacterium strains, which are known for their beneficial effects on gut health. Additionally, Bioma.Health Probiotics includes Xylooligosaccharides, a prebiotic that supports the growth of healthy bacteria, and Tributyrin, a form of butyrate that plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut lining.
While the capsules are housed in durable plastic jars designed to protect the live cultures, the true strength of Bioma.Health Probiotics lies in its advanced formulation. This carefully crafted blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics ensures comprehensive support for gut health, making Bioma.Health a reliable choice for improving your digestive health and overall well-being.
Bioma.Health Probiotics was particularly convincing due to its advanced formulation, taking a holistic approach to gut health. This all-in-one solution provides a powerful, multifaceted approach to improving digestive function, supporting weight management, and enhancing overall well-being, making it a standout choice in the market.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic
Overall Ranking:
Advantages:
- Contains an impressive 100 billion CFUs, one of the highest dosages available, providing a powerful boost to gut health.
- The formulation includes 10 different strains, targeting a wide range of digestive and immune health benefits.
- Vegan-friendly capsules made from plant-based hypromellose.
- Well-suited for individuals looking for a potent probiotic to address severe gut health issues.
Disadvantages:
- The high CFU count may cause gas and bloating in individuals who are new to probiotics.
- Slightly more expensive per serving compared to other options.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic is designed for those who seek a potent and comprehensive solution for maintaining and enhancing gut health. This supplement boasts an impressive 100 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) per serving, one of the highest available on the market, which helps in establishing a strong and diverse gut microbiome. The formula includes 10 carefully selected probiotic strains, each chosen for its specific benefits, ranging from improved digestion to enhanced immune function.
The supplement is delivered in vegan-friendly capsules made from plant-based hypromellose, ensuring that even those avoiding animal products can benefit from its potent effects. These capsules are engineered to protect the probiotics from stomach acid, ensuring that they reach the intestines intact where they can be most effective.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic is not just about high CFU counts—it’s about quality and effectiveness. The product is manufactured in a GMP-certified facility, ensuring that each bottle meets the highest standards of safety and efficacy. This makes it a top choice for those who are serious about their gut health, though its potent formula may be overwhelming for those new to probiotics.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic is a potent option for those needing a substantial boost to their gut microbiome. Its high CFU count and variety of strains make it a top choice for comprehensive gut health support.
Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics
Overall Ranking:
Advantages:
- Combines probiotics with digestive enzymes and prebiotics, providing a holistic approach to gut health.
- Contains 10 billion CFUs across five strains, supporting digestion and immune function.
- Includes additional ingredients like Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion root, which act as prebiotics and support digestive health.
Disadvantages:
- Requires taking multiple pills per serving, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Higher price point, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious consumers.
Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics is a holistic supplement designed to support overall digestive wellness. This product stands out by offering more than just probiotics—it combines a blend of five different probiotic strains with prebiotics and digestive enzymes, creating a comprehensive approach to gut health.
Each serving provides 10 billion CFUs of probiotics, including strains specifically selected to help balance the gut microbiome, enhance digestion, and support immune function. The addition of prebiotics, such as Jerusalem artichoke and dandelion root, helps to nourish these beneficial bacteria, ensuring they thrive in the digestive tract. Furthermore, the inclusion of digestive enzymes like betaine HCI assists in breaking down food more efficiently, which can alleviate common digestive issues such as bloating and indigestion.
Onnit Gut Health also caters to convenience, with the supplement packaged in individual serving packets, making it easy to take on the go. This thoughtful packaging, combined with the product’s vegetarian capsules, makes it an accessible option for those following various dietary preferences.
While Onnit Gut Health offers a robust and multifaceted approach to digestive wellness, the product does require consuming multiple pills per serving, which might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, its higher price point could be a consideration for those on a budget.
Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics is a well-rounded supplement that combines the benefits of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. It’s ideal for those seeking an all-in-one solution for digestive support, although the multiple-pill serving might be a drawback for some.
Ritual Synbiotic+
Overall Ranking:
Advantages:
- Features a triple-action formula that includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics, all in one capsule.
- The delayed-release capsule is designed to release probiotics directly in the colon, enhancing effectiveness and reducing bloating.
- Contains Tributyrin, which supports the gut lining and helps minimize inflammation.
Disadvantages:
- Higher cost per serving compared to similar products.
- Available only in capsule form, which may not suit everyone’s preferences.
Ritual Synbiotic+ is a cutting-edge gut health supplement that combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics into a single, convenient capsule. This three-in-one approach ensures that your digestive system receives comprehensive support, addressing the needs of the gut microbiome from multiple angles.
The supplement contains 11 billion CFUs of highly effective probiotic strains, selected for their ability to support digestive health, enhance immune function, and promote overall well-being. These probiotics are delivered via a delayed-release capsule that ensures they bypass the stomach acid and reach the colon, where they are most effective. This unique delivery system helps reduce common side effects like bloating and ensures that the probiotics perform their role where they are needed most.
In addition to probiotics, Ritual Synbiotic+ includes prebiotics that feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping them thrive and multiply. The postbiotic component, including tributyrin, supports the gut lining, reduces inflammation, and enhances the integrity of the intestinal barrier.
The product is also designed with the consumer’s lifestyle in mind, featuring a clean, minimalist formulation free from unnecessary additives and allergens. It’s a straightforward, transparent option that is easy to incorporate into daily routines.
While Ritual Synbiotic+ is slightly more expensive per serving compared to some other probiotics on the market, its comprehensive formula and advanced delivery system justify the investment for those serious about optimizing their gut health.
Onnit Gut Health with Probiotics is a well-rounded supplement that combines the benefits of probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes. It’s ideal for those seeking an all-in-one solution for digestive support, although the multiple-pill serving might be a drawback for some.
Seed Daily Synbiotic
Overall Ranking:
Advantages:
- Combines 24 strains of clinically studied probiotics and prebiotics, offering broad-spectrum gut health support.
- Utilizes a dual-encapsulation technology that protects probiotics through digestion and ensures delivery to the colon.
- Focuses on environmental sustainability with refillable glass containers and biodegradable packaging.
Disadvantages:
- Higher price point per month compared to other products in the market.
- The complexity of the formula may be unnecessary for those looking for a simpler probiotic solution.
Seed Daily Synbiotic is a premium probiotic and prebiotic supplement designed to offer advanced gut health support through science-backed innovation. This supplement features a dual-encapsulation technology that delivers 24 clinically studied strains of probiotics directly to the colon, where they can exert the most benefit. This sophisticated delivery system protects the probiotics from stomach acid, ensuring they survive the digestive journey and reach their target location intact.
The formula contains a broad spectrum of probiotic strains that address various aspects of gut health, including digestion, immune function, and overall microbiome balance. These strains are carefully selected for their ability to support not just gut health, but also skin health, heart health, and even nutrient absorption.
In addition to probiotics, Seed Daily Synbiotic includes prebiotics that specifically nourish the beneficial bacteria in your gut, promoting a healthy and diverse microbiome. The prebiotic compounds are derived from plant-based sources, contributing to the overall efficacy of the product.
Seed places a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability, with the product packaged in refillable glass containers and delivered in biodegradable materials. This commitment to sustainability, combined with the product’s high-quality ingredients and innovative delivery system, makes Seed Daily Synbiotic a standout choice in the probiotic market.
While Seed Daily Synbiotic is priced higher than many other options, its comprehensive, scientifically advanced approach to gut health and commitment to environmental responsibility make it worth the investment for those serious about their well-being.
Seed Daily Synbiotic is a premium choice for those who are serious about gut health and sustainability. Its sophisticated delivery system and comprehensive formula make it a standout in the probiotic market, though it comes at a higher cost.
Conclusion
Probiotics, known as products containing living microorganisms, have become increasingly recognized for their role in supporting gut health. The gut, often referred to as the “second brain,” is now understood to be a crucial center for our overall well-being, influencing everything from digestion to immune function and even mental health.
Bioma.Health Probiotics has emerged as a top contender in the competitive landscape of gut health supplements. Its advanced formula, combining high-quality probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, offers comprehensive support for gut health, setting it apart from many other products on the market.
As research continues to shed light on the importance of the gut microbiome, it’s becoming increasingly clear that modern stressors and dietary habits can negatively impact this delicate ecosystem. Probiotic supplements like Bioma.Health can be an essential addition to maintaining a balanced microbiome, promoting not only digestive health but also overall well-being.
However, not all probiotic products are created equal. There are significant differences in quality, effectiveness, and formulation among the options available today. Therefore, it’s crucial for consumers to be well-informed and discerning when choosing a probiotic supplement to ensure they are selecting the best product for their needs.
Our test winner
Bioma Health
95/100
Sources
“The Human Microbiome: At the Interface of Health and Disease”
- This article from Nature Reviews Genetics discusses the significant role of the human microbiome in health and disease, emphasizing the impact of gut microbiota on various aspects of human health, including immunity and metabolism.
- Citation: Cho, I., & Blaser, M. J. (2012). The human microbiome: At the interface of health and disease. Nature Reviews Genetics, 13(4), 260-270.
- URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/nrg3182
“Role of the Gut Microbiota in Nutrition and Health”
- Published in BMJ, this article explores the influence of gut microbiota on nutrition and overall health, along with how diet and lifestyle affect gut microbiota composition.
- Citation: Rowland, I., Gibson, G., Heinken, A., Scott, K., Swann, J., Thiele, I., & Tuohy, K. (2018). Role of the gut microbiota in nutrition and health. BMJ, 361, k2179.
- URL: https://www.bmj.com/content/361/bmj.k2179
“Probiotics and Prebiotics: Mechanisms and Health Benefits”
- This review in Nutrients details the mechanisms by which probiotics and prebiotics work and summarizes the evidence supporting their health benefits, particularly in gut health.
- Citation: Markowiak, P., & Śliżewska, K. (2017). Probiotics and prebiotics in human nutrition and health. Nutrients, 9(9), 1021.
- URL: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/9/9/1021
“Introduction to the Human Gut Microbiota”
- This article from Frontiers in Microbiology discusses the human gut microbiota’s critical role in maintaining health and its potential in preventing various diseases.
- Citation: Thursby, E., & Juge, N. (2017). Introduction to the human gut microbiota. Frontiers in Microbiology, 9, 1837.
- URL: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2017.00183/full
