Probiotic Supplements are living microorganisms that are incorporated, cultivated, or mixed into food and beverages. Some studies indicate a potential connection between consuming probiotics for weight loss when combined with a well-balanced diet. However, further clinical trials are necessary to determine how healthcare professionals can effectively utilize this approach in patient treatment.
Probiotic Supplements for weight loss in 2023:
Best unflavored: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Fitbiotic Powder
Best with added herbs: New Chapter Weight Management Probiotic Supplements
Best with multiple bacteria strains: Solaray Mycrobiome Weight Formula
Best for metabolism: Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management Capsules
Best single strain: Dr. Mercola Biothin
Best with added prebiotic: RenewLife Healthy Weight 2-in-1
Best shelf life: Probulin TrimSynergy
What do probiotic supplements do?
Probiotics are living microorganisms that, when consumed, may offer various health benefits. Typically available in the form of yogurt, specialized drinks, and supplements, they can also be found in fermented foods like kefir, tempeh, kombucha, miso, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
Probiotics have the ability to manipulate the gut microbiome, which refers to the collection and activity of microorganisms, including bacteria, residing in the gastrointestinal tract (GI). Through dietary choices, individuals can positively or negatively influence the gut microbiome’s impact on overall health. By using probiotic supplements or formulated foods, people can introduce beneficial bacteria, such as lactobacilli or bifidobacterium, into their gut microbiome.
The Food and Beverage Administration (FDA) does not regulate probiotics in the same manner as medications or food. However, they generally consider them safe. Many microorganisms commonly used in yogurt production, such as Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, are included in the FDA’s Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) list.
Probiotics and weight loss
The relationship between probiotics and weight loss supplements is complex and an ongoing area of research. A scientific review of data from 2021 suggests that the consumption of probiotics, along with other healthy lifestyle habits like regular physical activity, may lead to weight loss over a 12-week period.
Another study examining the connection between obesity and the gut microbiome found that individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) may have reduced diversity in their gut microbiome. This review suggests that probiotic consumption may modify the gut microbiome in ways that promote weight loss in people with a high BMI by regulating appetite, metabolism, and energy boosters.
Probiotic risks and safety
Similar to other supplements, probiotics are not subject to the same regulations as medications or food. This lack of regulation applies specifically to supplements. Consequently, it is not always possible to guarantee that a probiotic product contains the claimed strains and quantities of bacteria.
Furthermore, the bacterial populations in a probiotic supplement may change over time due to storage conditions or temperature fluctuations.
A study from 2015 reports very rare instances of unwanted bacteria-host interactions or other side effects associated with probiotics, typically observed in immunosuppressed individuals or those with severe illnesses. The researchers emphasize that taking supplements always carries some level of risk and that the safety of probiotics necessitates further study.
Foods containing probiotics, such as yogurts, are regulated by the FDA. Although they may not contain probiotics in as high quantities as supplements, they are generally considered a safer option for individuals concerned about potential risks.
Probiotics are not intended to replace conventional medicine, and individuals who are immunocompromised or severely ill should avoid taking probiotics. Pregnant or nursing individuals should seek medical advice before using probiotics. It is important to note that probiotics cannot treat or cure any diseases or conditions.
How we made our selection
This article’s writer has not personally tested the mentioned products. All information provided is based on research and accurate at the time of publication.
Buy Slim Biotic follows a stringent product selection and vetting process. For more information, please refer to our guidelines.
Top probiotic supplement for weight loss
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Fitbiotic Powder – Best unflavored
CFUs: 50 billion
Form: Powder
Doses: 20
This unflavored powder supplement can be added to a daily beverage. The manufacturer recommends mixing it with a cold drink to avoid heat damaging the bacteria. It contains multiple bacteria strains, including L. gasseri, L. rhamnosus, A. Senegal, and L. Acidophilus. The product is suitable for vegans, gluten-free, and USDA certified organic.
New Chapter Weight Management Probiotic – Best with added herbs
CFUs: 10 billion
Form: Capsules
Doses: 60
These capsules are vegan, gluten-free, and contain a targeted strain of Bifidobacterium. They also include whole-food herbs that the company claims provide wellness benefits. The manufacturer recommends taking one capsule daily, with or without food.
Solaray Mycrobiome Weight Formula – Best with multiple bacteria strains
CFUs: 60 billion
Form: Capsules
Doses: 30
These capsules contain eight probiotic strains and are vegan and gluten-free. The manufacturer suggests taking one capsule daily. Solaray claims that their product does not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and it is lab-verified.
Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management Capsules – Best for metabolism
CFUs: 12 billion
Form: Capsule
Doses: 30
This product utilizes two strains of bacteria and does not include any stimulants like caffeine and have Metabolism Boosters. The manufacturer claims that these capsules aid the body in metabolizing fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. They are vegetarian but not vegan-friendly. The company states that the unique purple color of the capsules is derived from purple carrot concentrate.
Dr. Mercola BIOTHIN – Best single strain
CFUs: 10 billion
Form: Capsules
Doses: 30
These capsules provide a 250 mg serving of Lactobacillus gasseri. The company recommends taking one capsule per day.
RenewLife Healthy Weight 2-in-1 – Best with added prebiotic
CFUs: 20 billion
Form: Capsules
Doses: 30
These vegetarian capsules contain ten bacteria strains, a prebiotic component, and green coffee bean extract. The product claims to support immune system and digestive health while promoting a healthy BMI. The manufacturer advises taking two capsules per day. This product requires refrigeration.
Probulin TrimSynergy – Best shelf life
CFUs: 10 billion
Form: Capsules
Doses: 60
Probulin claims to transport their products in cold boxes during shipping to maintain probiotic levels. This product features ten strains of probiotics and includes herbal ingredients like the adaptogen ashwagandha. This vegan and gluten-free product can be taken twice a day.
Comparison table
The table below compares the probiotic supplements in this article based on key features:
Brand Doses CFUs
Garden of Life 20 50 billion
New Chapter 60 10 billion
Solaray 30 60 billion
Culturelle 30 12 billion
Dr. Mercola 30 10 billion
RenewLife 30 20 billion
Probulin 60 10 billion
Choosing a probiotic supplement
When selecting a probiotic, consider the following factors:
Labeling
Probiotic measurements are expressed as Colony Forming Units (CFUs), which estimate the number of viable cells in a given sample under controlled conditions. Look for supplements that declare total CFUs at the end of the product’s shelf life.
Dosage
Many probiotic supplements contain 1-10 billion CFUs, with some exceeding 50 billion CFUs. There is no defined upper consumption limit, and higher CFU counts do not necessarily indicate better health effects. Also, consider the types and amounts of different strains, although these factors do not necessarily indicate product quality or safety.
Alternatives to supplements: In addition to capsules and powders, probiotics can be found in yogurts, fermented milk drinks, and flavored beverages. Changes in diet can also influence the gut microbiome, with different diets resulting in different changes.
Probiotics should complement established weight loss methods, such as reducing energy intake and increasing physical activity. They are not a standalone solution for weight loss.
Here are some common questions about probiotics and weight loss:
Can probiotics aid weight loss?
The evidence suggests that probiotics, when used alongside a balanced diet and exercise regimen, may contribute to weight loss. It may be necessary to try different products to find a probiotic supplement that suits individual needs.
Is there a recommended probiotic dosage or intake?
Currently, there is no research suggesting an ideal number of CFUs or preferred methods of consuming probiotics.
Summary
Probiotics for weight loss are generally safe and can complement a person’s diet and exercise routine. It is important to explore different options to find the most suitable product. Individuals concerned about probiotic safety should consult a healthcare professional.
Ongoing research aims to identify the most effective bacteria strains and optimal CFU dosages, potentially confirming the link between the gut microbiome and weight loss.