Best Probiotics For IBS

Are you struggling with digestive issues and looking for something to alleviate them? There may be a solution – a surprisingly basic, accessible one. We are, of course, talking about probiotic supplements – more specifically, we have nutritionist James Dixon exploring the best probiotics for IBS.

The benefits of probiotics for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be quite profound, and, happily, there are some genuinely fantastic products out there.

All the probiotics for IBS tested below should work wonders; though, of course, I do have my favourites. Designed to support gut health and alleviate IBS symptoms, YourBiology Gut+ incorporates a unique blend of probiotic strains, prebiotic fibres, and digestive enzymes that should be particularly useful.

Whichever one you choose, though, you should be onto a winner. Any decent probiotic supplement – of which our list is exclusively made – should help to mitigate your IBS symptoms and get you back to living as you want to live.

Our top probiotics for IBS

These are all fantastic probiotics – each one is high-quality, highly usable, and should represent a solid ally in your fight against IBS.

YourBiology Gut+

YourBiology Gut+ is an exceptional supplement that promotes gut health and provides a range of benefits, especially for those struggling with digestive issues like IBS. With its carefully selected blend of ingredients, Gut+ works to support a healthy gut microbiome and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

One of the key ingredients in Gut+ is Lactobacillus acidophilus, a probiotic strain known for its ability to restore gut flora balance and improve digestion. It helps to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can aid in reducing inflammation and enhancing digestion.

Gut+ also gives you a good dose of Bifidobacterium infantis, which has been shown to have a positive impact on relieving symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and bloating, as we’ve already mentioned.

It doesn’t end there, however. Gut+ also contains prebiotics like inulin, which acts as nourishment for the probiotic bacteria in the gut. Prebiotics are essential for the growth and maintenance of a healthy microbiome – they help to greatly enhance the efficacy of probiotics.

Additionally, Gut+ includes digestive enzymes such as amylase, protease, and lipase, which assist in breaking down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, respectively. These enzymes contribute to improved digestion and nutrient absorption.

The carefully formulated blend of ingredients in Gut+ is designed to work synergistically to optimise gut health. By addressing the root causes of digestive issues, it can give you a great measure of relief from symptoms such as bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements.

Gut+ is made with high-quality, natural ingredients that are sourced responsibly. It is free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, making it a safe and reliable choice for those seeking to improve their gut health naturally.

Everything that I like to see in a decent supplement, in other words.

Plenty of users have reported significant improvements in their digestive symptoms after incorporating Gut+ into their daily routines. I concur – it’s one of my probiotics of choice, and it works wonders for me.

YourBiology Gut+ is a well-formulated supplement that provides comprehensive support for gut health. With its thoughtfully selected ingredients and positive user feedback, it is a reliable choice for anybody looking to improve their digestive wellbeing and manage symptoms associated with gut-related conditions.

It should help to spell the end for your IBS.

Biotics 8

Biotics 8 is similar – it is specifically formulated to improve gut health, in the process alleviating symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and other digestive concerns. With its unique blend of scientifically researched ingredients, Biotics 8 offers a range of benefits that can significantly improve the quality of life for anybody living with IBS.

One of the key ingredients in Biotics 8 is Saccharomyces boulardii, a highly beneficial strain of yeast. Research suggests that Saccharomyces boulardii can help to reduce symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain and diarrhoea. It works by supporting the balance of gut bacteria and promoting a healthy gut microbiome, ultimately helping to regulate bowel movements.

Another essential ingredient in Biotics 8 is Lactobacillus plantarum, a probiotic strain known for its potential in managing IBS symptoms. Lactobacillus plantarum has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce gut inflammation commonly associated with IBS (again, see above – this is the last in the trinity of known beneficial strains for IBS). It also aids in improving digestion, alleviating bloating, and supporting overall gut health.

Biotics 8 also contains a blend of prebiotics, including inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which, as we have seen, essentially function as food for the beneficial bacteria in the gut. These prebiotics help to nourish and support the growth of probiotics, contributing to a healthier gut microbiome and improved IBS symptoms.

Additionally, Biotics 8 incorporates digestive enzymes like amylase, protease, and lipase, which assist in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, respectively. Adequate digestive enzyme activity can help individuals with IBS better digest their food and alleviate some of the discomfort associated with certain dietary triggers.

In fact, there is no shortage of IBS patients online testifying to Biotics 8’s efficacy – it can properly change your life. It’s an incredibly well-researched supplement designed to specifically target symptoms of IBS and promote a healthy gut. With its unique blend of ingredients and positive user feedback, Biotics 8 offers a promising solution for individuals seeking to alleviate their IBS symptoms and improve their overall digestive wellbeing.

If YourBiology Gut+ wasn’t on this list, I would probably give Biotics 8 first place. And there’s no shame to missing out on the top spot to something like YourBiology Gut+.

Feel

I really like Feel. (Though it’s a tough one to Google – could they not have come out with a more unique, lower-frequency name? We have a link just below that will take you right to it and show you the best price.) It offers comprehensive support for those with digestive issues, including, of course, those suffering with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

With a very carefully curated blend of ingredients (as with anything on this list), Feel aims to alleviate symptoms of digestive discomfort, promote gut health, and enhance overall wellbeing.

One of the key ingredients in Feel is a combination of probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis. As we have seen, both have been extensively researched for their potential benefits in managing IBS symptoms, restoring the balance of gut bacteria, reducing inflammation, and improving digestive function.

All of this comes together to very ably alleviate symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements, all associated with IBS.

Feel also embraces the use of Fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which works well as a food source for the probiotics in the gut and helping them to flourish. As we have seen, this can greatly contribute to better gut function and symptom relief for those suffering with IBS.

In addition, Feel contains the natural digestive enzymes amylase, protease, and lipase, all there to aid in the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. This means improved digestion with reduced gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and discomfort.

Furthermore, Feel’s formula includes soothing herbs like ginger (one of my favourites – I take a ginger shot every morning to help settle my stomach) and peppermint extract, which have long been used to support digestive health.

These herbs have been shown to help relax the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract, ease bloating, and alleviate digestive discomfort often experienced by individuals with IBS. Ginger in particular is highly alkalising, meaning that it helps to rebalance the gut when excess acid production occurs.

Feel users have reported positive experiences, with many praising the supplement for its efficacy in managing their IBS symptoms. I’m not at all surprised, with all of the above taken into account. In fact, I’ve rarely struggled so hard to find a top pick in any list – there hasn’t been a misstep yet! Using Feel should lead to reduced bloating, improved bowel regularity, and enhanced overall gut function for regular users.

As with other products on this list, Feel uses only high-quality, natural ingredients. It is free from fillers and unnecessary artificial additives, making it a safe and reliable choice for anybody looking to support their digestive health naturally and overcome IBS symptoms.

Symprove

I feel like I’m repeating myself, but honestly, everything on this list is terrific – all these probiotics really do hold their own in this Best list, genuinely offering fantastic benefits for anybody suffering from IBS.

With this in mind, let’s begin by saying that Symprove is an innovative supplement in the fight against IBS.

Symprove contains a special blend of live, activated bacteria strains that have been specially selected for their ability to survive the harsh environment of the stomach and colonize the gut. These strains include Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus lactis. By colonizing the gut, these bacteria work to balance the gut microbiome and support overall digestive health, as we have seen.

However, it stands out from other supplements due to its specific formulation and delivery system. Symprove is a liquid-based supplement that is taken in a small dose each day on an empty stomach. This delivery system allows the live bacteria to reach the gut quickly and in an active state, increasing the chances of colonisation and overall efficacy.

Symprove has undergone clinical trials to assess its impact on gut health and IBS symptoms. These trials have shown that Symprove can lead to improvements in symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and bowel regularity. Additionally, Symprove has been found to help reduce gut inflammation and enhance the diversity of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

This is born out in user testimony. Symprove users have reported overwhelmingly positive experiences, with many experiencing noticeable improvements in their IBS symptoms after consistent use. Symprove really should lead to a reduction in bloating, abdominal pain relief, and greatly improved digestive health.

It is important to note that Symprove is primarily available as a subscription-based product, with a recommended 12-week program to allow for optimal results. This extended program helps to ensure consistent supplementation over a sufficient period for the bacteria to colonize and support the gut effectively.

With Symprove, then, we really do have a unique and innovative supplement that aims to support gut health and alleviate symptoms for individuals with digestive issues, including those with IBS. Its specialised formulation, delivery system, and positive user feedback make it a promising choice for anybody looking to improve their gut health and manage symptoms of IBS and similar digestive complaints.

Yumi Gut Health

Finally, we come to Yumi Gut Health, another little pet favourite of mine.

Again (obligatory at this point in the article), Yumi Gut Health has been specifically designed to support and improve gut health. Yada yada, so on and so forth. But honestly, it’s great – it holds its weight in this list, and should be revolutionary to you, should you opt for it.

What we get here is a diverse range of ingredients that work together to promote a healthy gut microbiome and alleviate symptoms commonly associated with digestive issues, including, of course, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Yumi Gut Health contains a variety of probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Streptococcus thermophilus, all known for their ability to support a balanced gut microbiome, aid in digestion, and regulate bowel movements.

Prebiotic fibres such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are also included in Yumi Gut Health. We have seen these at work already – they act as food sources for the probiotics, nourishing them and promoting their growth in the gut.

You also get a good helping of digestive enzymes with each dose, including amylase, protease, and lipase. This means far more comfortable breakdown of complex carbohydrates, proteins, and fats respectively, which in turn means far greater digestion and absorption. This should help in reducing digestive discomfort and supports optimal nutrient uptake.

Similarly to Feel, Yumi Gut Health contains some really helpful herbs and botanical extracts, such as ginger and peppermint, which have long been used to support digestive health. Again, ginger is magic – and peppermint is no slouch, come to think of it.

Users of Yumi Gut Health have reported positive outcomes, noting improvements in their digestion, reduction in bloating, and overall better gut health. Yumi Gut Health is also manufactured with high-quality ingredients, and it is free from artificial additives and unnecessary fillers. It’s comprehensive, it’s clever, and it should be highly beneficial for anybody.

Verdict

There isn’t a duff note on this list. Honestly, it’s been a real joy to write.

However, I do need to pick one. As we’ve seen, YourBiology Gut+ gets the top slot (by a whisker, though).

Its blend of probiotic strains, prebiotic fibres, and digestive enzymes sets it apart. Unlike Symprove and Yumi Gut Health, YourBiology Gut+ incorporates probiotic strains that survive the gut and promote a healthy microbiome. It also includes digestive enzymes for enhanced digestion.

With high-quality ingredients and positive user feedback, it offers a comprehensive solution, improving symptoms and overall wellbeing. Opt for YourBiology Gut+ to support a balanced gut microbiome, alleviate IBS symptoms, and improve your digestive health.

(Or opt for something else from this list… really, you can’t go wrong in this kind of company.)

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic condition that affects the large intestine, also known as the colon. IBS is a pretty common disorder, affecting around ten to fifteen percent of the global population.

The exact cause of IBS is not fully understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial, involving a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Some of the known triggers for IBS symptoms include certain foods, stress, changes in gut motility, alterations in the gut microbiome, and abnormalities in the communication between the brain and the gut.

The symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person, and may include abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, excessive gas, changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or both periodically), and a sense of incomplete bowel movements. These symptoms can be chronic and recurrent, and they may well often interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

Certain factors can trigger or exacerbate IBS symptoms. These can include specific foods or drinks (foods that are high in fat, alcohol, caffeine, and fizzy drinks, for example), as well as stress or anxiety, hormonal changes (especially in women going through the menopause), and some types of medication.

There is no specific test to definitively diagnose IBS. Rather, IBS is usually diagnosed based on a clinical evaluation of symptoms and the exclusion of other potential underlying conditions. Basically, if nothing else fits the bill, the above symptoms can be classified as IBS.

Managing IBS often involves several concurrent approaches, the details of which will be directly tailored to each patient.

Dietary modifications will generally play a crucial role in any treatment plan – removing the kinds of foods and drinks known to trigger symptoms. Identifying and avoiding these trigger foods, adopting a balanced and fibre-rich diet, and practicing portion control can help to alleviate symptoms.

Stress management techniques, regular exercise, and maintaining a regular sleep pattern are also important aspects of managing IBS. In some cases, medication may be prescribed to address specific symptoms or to modulate gut motility.

It is worth noting that IBS is a chronic condition. While it can be disruptive and uncomfortable, it does not lead to more serious diseases, nor increase the risk of developing other gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or colon cancer. It’s unpleasant, not dangerous.

If you suspect you may have IBS or are experiencing persistent GI symptoms, you should speak to your healthcare provider. They will be able to give you an accurate diagnosis and guide you as you find appropriate management strategies to mitigate symptoms.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that can give us some genuinely life-changing health benefits. While probiotics naturally occur in certain foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, they can also be taken as dietary supplements – generally a far more efficient way of getting them in.

Probiotic supplements are designed to deliver specific strains of beneficial bacteria or yeasts to the digestive system, promoting a healthy balance of gut microbiota. Supplementing with probiotics can be of great benefit for a few reasons.

Firstly, they can help to improve digestion and nutrient absorption by producing enzymes that aid in the breakdown of food. This supports the body’s ability to absorb nutrients, and improves the overall function of the digestive system.

For example, some studies suggest that probiotics may help to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), whilst reducing the severity and duration of certain types of diarrhoea.

Probiotics have also been studied for their immune-boosting properties. A well-balanced gut microbiota can help protect against harmful pathogens, and consuming probiotics can support the diversity and abundance of beneficial microorganisms in the gut, enhancing immune function.

It’s important to note that not all probiotic supplements are created equal. A probiotic supplement’s efficacy depends on several factors, such as the specific strains included, the dosage, and the viability of the organisms. Choosing a reputable brand of probiotic supplements, consulting with a healthcare professional, and following the recommended dosage is essential for best results.

While probiotic supplementation can be beneficial, it should not replace a healthy and balanced diet. Consuming a variety of fibre-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fermented foods like yogurt alongside probiotic supplementation can help support optimal gut health and overall wellbeing.

Once you’re there though – when you have your ducks in a row, are eating a balanced lifestyle, and have spoken with your doctor – it’s time to pick your probiotic. Hence this list – anything from the list below should see you right.

How can probiotics help with IBS?

Probiotics have been shown to potentially benefit individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) by helping to improve gut health and thus alleviate symptoms – research suggests that certain strains of probiotics may help to reduce IBS symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements.

As above, probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, that can provide some really quite profound health benefits. They work by restoring the balance of bacteria in the gut and modulating the gut microbiota. They can help to improve the function of the digestive system, reduce gut inflammation, and enhance the integrity of the intestinal lining, all of which will help in mitigating IBS symptoms.

Additionally, probiotics may have a positive impact on the gut-brain axis, which plays a role in IBS pathophysiology (the disordered physiological processes associated with disease or injury).

As above, not all probiotics are the same – it is important to note that the effects of probiotics vary depending on the specific strains and formulations used. Not all probiotics may be equally effective in managing IBS symptoms, so it is crucial to choose the right strains of probiotics based on available clinical data. When in doubt, chat with your healthcare provider, who will be able to guide you.

Some studies suggest that probiotics such as Bifidobacterium infantis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Lactobacillus plantarum may be of benefit to those suffering with IBS. However, the optimal dosage and duration of probiotic supplementation for IBS management are still under investigation, and further research is needed to fully understand their potential benefits.

It’s also important to note that probiotics may not work for everyone with IBS, and individual responses may vary. Again, your doctor will be able to advise you more fully, based on your personal medical records, circumstances, and needs.