The 9 Best Probiotic Supplements to Support Weight Loss in 2024

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Bad gut health and poor digestion can lead to all sorts of problems with weight management. In fact, imbalances in the gut microbiome can prevent a person from losing weight even as they adhere to a weight loss diet. One way to help even things out is by taking probiotic supplements—for weight loss but also for better gut health in general.

Probiotics are the good bacteria that your gut needs to properly digest, absorb and metabolize food. They also confer several health benefits related to immunity, cognition and cardiovascular functions. A daily regimen of probiotic supplements provides an easy way to boost the probiotic intake you're already getting from foods like yogurt, cottage cheese, pickles and sauerkraut.

To help you choose the supplement that best fits your needs, we've selected the best probiotics for weight loss in 2024. We'll also analyze the science behind probiotics and answer some frequently asked questions.

This content is meant to be informative, but should not be taken as medical advice. It is not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention or treatment of health problems. Always speak with your doctor before starting any new supplement or exercise regimen.

The Best Probiotics for Weight Loss: Our Top Picks

• Best Overall Probiotic for Weight Loss: Ritual Synbiotic+
• Best Probiotic for Weight Loss for Women: YourBiology
• Best Probiotic for Weight Loss for Men: Biotics 8
• Best Probiotic for Bloating and Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Probiotic
• Best Multi-Enzyme Probiotic for Weight Loss: Seed Daily Synbiotic
• Best Prebiotic and Probiotic for Weight Loss: Bioma
• Best Probiotic for Constipation and Weight Loss: Garden of Life Once Daily Probiotics
• Best Budget Probiotic for Weight Loss: HUM Gut Instinct

Best Overall Probiotic for Weight Loss: Ritual Synbiotic+

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis (BB-12) (probiotics); LH01 - Myoviridae, LL5 - Siphoviridae, T4D - Myoviridae and LL12 - Myoviridae (prebiotics)
• Claims: Supports relief of occasional discomforts such as mild bloating, gas and diarrhea; targets undesirable bacteria in the gut and supports the growth of beneficial bacteria; provides fuel to the cells that make up the gut lining and supports gut barrier function; supports immune system health
• CFUs: 11 billion
• Form: Vegan capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.80

Ritual is a company committed to using high-quality ingredients to create daily nutrition essentials like multivitamins and protein shakes. Ritual Synbiotic+ is the company’s solution to improving your digestive health and losing weight.

This supplement contains a synergistic blend of probiotics and prebiotics to supply and fuel the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. It tops our list of the best probiotics for weight loss because it contains two of the world’s most clinically studied strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis). Plus, the formula includes a postbiotic to strengthen your gut lining and slow the growth of harmful bacteria.

Additionally, findings from a 2020 study of mice with diet-induced obesity suggest that Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG (one of the probiotic strains in this supplement) may have anti-obesity properties.

After reading the reviews on Ritual’s website, you’ll notice a common thread—Ritual subscribers are generally happy with Ritual’s supplements, and also rave about the company itself. Verified buyer Erin I. has this to say: “Great product and customer service. Ritual has been great and it's been easy to get in a routine of taking them every day. Customer service was also so nice and gets back to you very quickly!”

Pros:

• Third-party tested
• Gluten and major allergen-free
• Non-GMO
• No refrigeration needed

Cons:

• Only contains two strains of probiotics

Best Probiotic for Weight Loss for Women: YourBiology

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus plantarum
• Claims: Eliminates bloat; improves skin health; boosts good bacteria in the gut; supports a good mood; strengthens immune support; improves digestion; supports bowel regularity
• CFUs: 40 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $2.17

YourBiology was created with the help of top scientists and nutritionists to provide clinically proven bacteria strains at the correct CFU amounts. It makes our list of the best probiotics for weight loss because it has four probiotic strains that contribute to a healthy gut and weight loss in women.

Probiotics are also essential to women’s gut health because they can reduce the risk of UTIs and yeast infections by preventing the growth of bad bacteria in reproductive organs and the urinary tract.

According to the manufacturer, YourBiology contains science-backed bacterial strains that work to fix a broken gut and improve symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Customers back up the product's weight loss capabilities. “I’ve been on YourBiology for only two weeks…I feel lighter and my husband commented that I’m looking slimmer!” says Emily W. from Orlando, FL.

Related: The Best Probiotics for Women's Gut Health, According to a Registered Nurse and Women's Health Expert

Pros:

• Manufactured in a GMP-certified facility
• Addresses women’s gut health
• Contains a natural prebiotic fiber
• No refrigeration needed

Cons:

• Pricey
• Doesn’t contain postbiotics

Best Probiotic for Weight Loss for Men: Biotics 8

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Saccharomyces Boulardii
• Claims: Boosts testosterone levels; improves focus and performance; helps break down fat, proteins and sugars to improve digestion; curbs appetite to aid weight loss; increases muscle growth, energy and endurance
• CFUs: 20 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $2.17

Biotics 8 provides ten potent probiotic bacteria strains important to a healthy digestive system and weight loss in men. On top of that, it features a prebiotic fiber from chicory root that research suggests may naturally help curb appetite. It also contains digestive enzymes to help break down food more effectively and prevent gastrointestinal discomfort.

We rank Biotics 8 as the best probiotic for men’s weight loss because it’s designed to promote several key factors essential to a man’s fitness and physique. These include muscle building, endurance and improved performance in the gym.

"My bloating has gone down and I have more energy. Best probiotic I’ve taken. Zero stomach pain. Digestion feels awesome," says reviewer Jeff R.

Related: The Best Probiotics for Men to Support Gut, Colon and Digestive Health

Pros:

• Addresses men’s gut health
• Contains digestive enzymes and vitamin D
• Gluten-free and dairy-free
• GMP-certified

Cons:

• Each dosage requires you to take three capsules

Best Probiotic for Bloating and Weight Loss: Transparent Labs Probiotic

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Bifidobacterium bifidum BB-02, Bifidobacterium breve BB-03, Bifidobacterium lactis BL-04, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LR-32, Lactobacillus casei LC–11, Lactobacillus plantarum LLP-115, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC-37, Lactobacillus salivarius LS-33, Streptococcus thermophilus ST-21
• Claims: Enhances nutrient breakdown and digestion; nourishes your gut microbiome with friendly microbes; promotes healthy immune function
• CFUs: 100 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.53

Transparent Labs is a dietary supplement company dedicated to providing science-backed products and formulations, and Transparent Labs Probiotic is no exception. It contains 10 clinically studied strains of probiotics and a whopping 100 billion colony-forming units (CFUs)—the highest number of both strains and CFUs among the supplements on our list.

Studies show that an imbalance in the amount and type of gut bacteria (gut dysbiosis) can lead to bloating and other unpleasant digestive symptoms. That’s why we rank Transparent Labs Probiotic as the best probiotic for bloating and weight loss—it provides the strain diversity necessary to combat belly bloat and indigestion.

Reviews for this supplement can be accurately described as glowing. A verified reviewer had this to say: “I typically feel bloated and gross after most weekends of indulging in beverages and food that isn't so healthy. However, I found if I take these right in the morning, I'm less bloated and drink more water. I used to use Isotonix, but I find this to be a lot easier. I'm hoping I can keep this as my daily routine.”

Pros:

• Third-party tested
• 10 strains of probiotics
• No artificial sweeteners or preservatives

Cons:

• Doesn’t contain prebiotics or a postbiotic

Best Multi-Enzyme Probiotic for Weight Loss: Seed Daily Synbiotic

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Bifidobacterium longum SD-BB536-JP, Bifidobacterium breve SD-BR3-IT, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum SD-LP1-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD-LR6-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus HRVD113-US, Bifidobacterium infantis SD-M63-JP, Bifidobacterium lactis SD-BS5-IT, Bifidobacterium lactis HRVD524-US, Lactobacillus crispatus SD-LCR01-IT, Lacticaseibacillus casei HRVD300-US, Bifidobacterium breve HRVD521-US, Bifidobacterium longum HRVD90b-US, Bifidobacterium lactis SD150-BE, Limosilactobacillus fermentum SD-LF8-IT, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD-GG-BE, Limosilactobacillus reuteri RD830-FR
• Claims: Supports relief of occasional discomforts such as mild bloating, gas and diarrhea; supports skin and heart health, gut immune function, gut barrier integrity and micronutrient synthesis
• CFUs: None, 53.6 billion Active Fluorescent Units (AFU)
• Form: Vegan capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.66

Seed Daily Synbiotic is a prebiotic and probiotic that contains 53.6 billion AFUs to support digestive function, skin and heart health and gut immunity. AFUs are prebiotic and probiotic cells tagged with fluorescent markers indicating how many are live and active. Seed uses this technology to get a precise measurement of viable cells; that way, an accurate amount is used for Daily Synbiotic.

The Bifidobacterium strain has been associated with beneficial effects such as anti-infection activity, anti-inflammation, immune system regulation and more. While Bifidobacterium has health-benefiting properties, the benefits of commercial supplement use need further research.

Seed Daily Synbiotic has 400 milligrams of Microbiota-Accessible Polyphenolic Precursors (MAPP), a prebiotic compound called punicalagin derived from Indian pomegranate. One study states that punicalagin may control the way certain genes work, particularly the ones that regulate fatty acid and glucose metabolism, which could impact weight loss.

Check out our Seed Daily Synbiotic review for more information on this popular supplement.

Pros:

• Third-party tested for allergens and free of all 14 classes according to the European Food and Safety Authority (EFASA)
• Clinical trials assessing the efficacy are currently being conducted by Harvard’s Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Additional info about the label includes detailed information about each ingredient
• No refrigeration needed

Cons:

• Expensive

Best Prebiotic and Probiotic for Weight Loss: Bioma

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Bifidobacterium lactis; bifidobacterium longum and bifidobacterium breve
• Claims: Supports relief of digestional discomforts such as mild bloating, gas and constipation; targets undesirable bacteria in the gut and supports the growth of beneficial gut bacteria; helps nurture an environment to maintain new beneficial gut bacteria
• CFUs: 9 billion
• Form: Vegan capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.60 ($0.76 per serving with 6-month subscription supply)

Bioma is our choice for the best prebiotic and probiotic for weight loss because it contains a harmonious trio of prebiotic and probiotic strains, plus a postbiotic to reinforce the gut barrier. Bioma also says that the slow-release nature of the capsule ensures the ingredients reach the gut, and aren’t thwarted by stomach acid. The combination of a prebiotic and probiotic can reduce behavioral problems associated with stress and weight gain, such as overeating and poor sleep habits, according to a recent study published in the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. It may also reduce inflammation by regulating immune responses associated with changes in the gut microbiota.

A reviewer on the Amazon Bioma page writes that the daily probiotic “addresses the need for an all-day benefit” by having a slow-release capsule, and “packs a triple punch with prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics,” noting that most probiotics don’t contain all three.

If you’re interested in a probiotic supplement designed to provide a full slate of comprehensive gut health benefits, consider adding Bioma to your supplement regimen, which is also one of the most affordable supplements—the price per serving is equal to (or under) $1 if you subscribe for three or six months.

Pros:

• Slow-release capsule offers longer-lasting benefits
• One of the most affordable brands
• Gluten-free, non-GMO and stimulant-free

Cons:

• Not third-party tested or manufactured in a GMP certified facility
• Less CFUs than other brands 

Best Probiotic for Constipation and Weight Loss: Garden of Life Once Daily Probiotics

Key features & specs

• Main strains: 14 strains, including lactobacillus casei and bifidobacterium lactis
• Claims: Enhances nutrient breakdown and digestion; nourishes your gut microbiome with friendly microbes; promotes healthy immune function
• CFUs: 30 billion
• Form: Capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.30

Numerous clinical studies have confirmed the relationship between constipation and gut microbiota. There is also a strong association between obesity and constipation. Garden of Life Once Daily is our pick for the best probiotic for constipation and weight loss because it contains a diverse group of 14 different probiotic strains, including bifidobacterium lactis, which may improve bowel movement frequency and lactobacillus casei, which has relieved constipation symptoms in clinical trials.

Customers on Garden of Life’s website believe it does the job. “This combination of 14 strains of bacteria with a total of 30 [billion] CFUs has really settled my health with my IBS!” says reviewer Darlene S. Another verified buyer, Townsie F., writes, “The probiotic that works but does not upset my stomach, thank you!!” Reviewers also say you should not forget to store Garden of Life Once Daily in the refrigerator after first use.

Related Post: The Best Fiber Supplements for Constipation, IBS and More

Pros:

• 14 strains of probiotics
• Reviewers say it works quickly to relieve constipation symptoms
• Non-GMO Project verified

Cons:

• It doesn’t contain prebiotics or a postbiotic

Best Budget Probiotic for Weight Loss: HUM Gut Instinct

Key features & specs

• Main strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis (UABla-12), Bifidobacterium lactis (UABla-12), Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Strepto. Thermophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei (Lpc-37), Bifidobacterium breve, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus casei
• Claims: Promotes good digestion, supports immunity and microbiome diversity
• CFUs: 25 billion
• Form: Vegan capsule
• Dose per container: 30
• Price per serving: $1.15

With 10 different strain types, HUM Gut Instinct offers a diverse probiotic blend at a budget-friendly price. The brand offers a 40% discount on your first order and other promotions such as saving 10% when you buy three items.

Two probiotic strains in this supplement, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei, have been linked to belly fat loss in a 2017 clinical trial.

Gut Instinct is Clean Label Project Verified, which means it has been third-party tested by Clean Label Project for heavy metals, pesticides and plasticizers. It’s also ideal for vegans or vegetarians looking for a vegan supplement.

Reviewers on the brand’s website rate Gut Instinct 4.6/5. One verified buyer states, “I love all HUM products for the affordability and most importantly, the quality. I usually have issues with probiotics giving me abdominal cramping. I have had zero issues, and I’m finally more “regular” again. Love these probiotics!”

Pros:

• Third-party tested
• Inexpensive
• No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners or preservatives
• No refrigeration needed

Cons:

• Doesn’t contain prebiotics or a postbiotic

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms (live bacteria) that naturally live in our bodies and play a role in our gastrointestinal functions and digestive health. Probiotics are sold as a dietary supplement, but are also found in many foods (e.g. cottage cheese) and even beauty products.

We typically think of probiotics as the “good bacteria” in the gut that help us digest food and fight off bad bacteria. However, probiotics are also found in many other areas of the body in addition to the gut, including the mouth, vagina, urinary tract, skin and lungs.

Related: 5 Probiotic Side Effects You Should Watch Out For

How Can Probiotics Support Weight Loss?

Probiotics support weight loss by regulating various hormones, metabolic processes and digestive functions that affect body weight and body fat mass.

1. Probiotics appear to promote the release of the appetite-regulating hormones GLP-1 and peptide YY, resulting in reduced food intake and improved glucose tolerance.
2. Probiotics seem to increase levels of the fat-regulating protein ANGPTL4, leading to decreased fat storage.
3. Probiotics increase the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that act as appetite suppressants.
4. Probiotics may inhibit the absorption of dietary fat, causing more fat to be excreted during bowel movements.
5. Probiotics help fight inflammation and may prevent obesity, metabolic syndrome and other chronic diseases.
6. Probiotics may change the gut microbiome in ways that promote weight loss in people with a high body mass index (BMI) by reducing appetite and boosting metabolism.

Best Strains of Probiotics for Weight Loss

New research efforts on the effects of probiotics in weight management are primed to make new revelations on the role of specific probiotic strains in weight loss.

But currently, only a handful of probiotic strains have been clinically tested for effectiveness in weight loss. As far as we know, the best strains of probiotics for weight loss are:

• Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis 420
• Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL-60
• Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL-21
• Lactobacillus plantarum CUL-66
• Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CUL-34
• Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL-20
• Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055

Who Should Not Take Probiotics for Weight Loss

Although probiotics are referred to as “good bacteria,” that doesn’t mean probiotic supplements are “good” for everyone. People who should avoid probiotics for weight loss include, but aren’t limited to:

• Individuals whose physician advises against their use
• Individuals who are immunocompromised and take medication
• Individuals with serious health conditions
• Individuals who have had major surgery

Ultimately, the suitability of a probiotic for you will depend on your specific health status. Consult your healthcare provider for additional guidance on using probiotics for weight loss.

Related: How to Fix a Leaky Gut and Improve Gut Health

How to Choose the Best Probiotic for Weight Loss for You

Probiotic supplements can contain any number of bacteria strains, each of which has different effects on the body. The best probiotic supplement for you will have strains of bacteria that have been tested to provide the effect you’re looking for. For example, if you struggle with food cravings and overeating, you may want a probiotic strain that helps reduce appetite. You’ll get the most out of a probiotic supplement by doing your due diligence to understand how each of its included probiotic strains affects the body.

How We Chose the Best Probiotics for Weight Loss

Third-party testing:

We place a high priority on third-party testing because the FDA does not currently require approval for nutrition supplements. That means brands who submit their products to third-party testing are doing so to give their customers peace of mind.

Clinically tested ingredients

Most dietary supplements use ingredients that have been clinically tested, but that can mean several different things. Generally speaking, the research supplement brands cite is a generic ingredient testing. For example, one study might test the weight loss potential of caffeine, while another study may test the weight loss benefits of a specific probiotic strain.

There are also patented, or trademarked, ingredients that are typically tested at specific doses. One example of this is DE111 bacillus subtilis, which is included in some of the products on our list above.

Customer reviews

If we can't test a product ourselves, we comb through the customer reviews looking for both repeated positive experiences and repeated negative experiences. If a large portion of customer reviews all report positive results from a product we take that into consideration. If a large portion of customer reviews report the same negative result we take note of that as well.

Reputable brands

With the rise of social media influencers pushing products to their audience, it is more important than ever to differentiate between reputable and non-reputable brands. To us, reputable brands have an established history of high-quality products, endorsements from professionals who use their supplements and a good reputation among customers over time.

That doesn't mean all new brands are non-reputable, but we give higher preference to brands that have proven themselves to customers.

For a more detailed explanation of how we select products, you can view our full nutrition products and supplements methodology.

Probiotic Supplement Alternatives

There are many foods and fermented food products that provide a good source of probiotics. Some of the most popular probiotic foods are:

• Soft cheeses
• Yogurt
• Buttermilk
• Fermented sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Fermented pickles
• Tempeh
• Sourdough bread
• Kefir
• Kombucha
• Olives
• Apple cider vinegar
• Green peas

Related Post: The Best Probiotic Drinks, According to a Dietician 

Probiotics for Weight Loss FAQs

Can probiotics flatten your stomach?

When combined with a hypocaloric diet and regular exercise, probiotics can help reduce bloating, promote fat loss and lead to a flatter stomach. They may also relieve bloating.

Do doctors recommend probiotics for weight loss?

More research is needed to fully understand the benefits of probiotics for weight loss but most doctors would agree that probiotics confer benefits to our digestive health that can support a weight loss diet.

Can probiotics speed up your metabolism?

Probiotics can alter your gut microbiome so that you digest food more efficiently. This may lead to an increase in metabolism.

How does gut health affect weight loss?

A healthy gut will have the optimal balance of probiotics necessary to properly regulate hormones related to appetite and satiety. Gut health is also important to prevent certain metabolic problems that contribute to weight gain.

How quickly do probiotics work for weight loss?

It may take a few weeks of regular use before you notice the effects of probiotics for weight loss.

Takeaway: Are Probiotics Worth It for Weight Loss?

Yes, probiotics are worth it for weight loss. Probiotics are essential to gut health and can support weight loss to help you achieve a healthy weight. Combined with a hypocaloric healthy diet and regular exercise, a probiotic supplement regimen may help you lose weight faster than you otherwise would. In addition to weight loss, you may also see improvements in your mood, energy levels and overall health. 

Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.