Which probiotics promote weight loss
5 Best Probiotics to Support Weight Loss, According to Dietitians
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Probiotics may help with weight loss. Some of the best probiotic supplements for weight loss may vary depending on the type of probiotic strain, price, shelf life, and third-party testing, among other factors.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are associated with a wide range of
For example, some strains have been shown to be effective for treating
Obesity is a
Keep reading for our picks of the five best probiotics to support your weight loss efforts.
The probiotic supplements featured in this article were selected based on the following criteria:
- Probiotic strains: We included products with probiotic strains that have been clinically shown to be effective for weight management. Studies show that these strains may help reduce body weight, body fat mass, and waist circumference.
- CFU count: We included products that contain doses of probiotics that have been shown to be effective for weight loss in clinical studies.
- Ingredient quality: We looked for products that are made with high quality ingredients and free from fillers, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.
- Vetting: Every product and brand on our list has been vetted to ensure that it meets Healthlines medical and business standards.
Best overall probiotic for weight loss
- Price range: $$$
- Serving size: 1 capsule daily
- CFU count: 32 billion CFU
- Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, Bifidobacterium lactis B420, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
Mindbodygreen probiotics+ contains Bifidobacterium lactis B420, a probiotic strain that is a trademark of the chemical and technological innovation company DuPont.
This strain has been studied specifically for its use in
A
However, its important to note that the study was funded by DuPont.
Mindbodygreen probiotics+ also contains Bifidobacterium lactis HN019. A
This probiotic is gluten-free, vegan, and shelf-stable. Additionally, mindbodygreen states that the product has been third-party tested for purity and potency, though the name of the testing organization isnt disclosed.
Best shelf-stable probiotic for weight loss
- Price range: $$
- Serving size: 1 capsule daily
- CFU count: 10 billion CFU
- Strains: Bifidobacterium lactis B420
Bariatric Advantage is a shelf-stable supplement that also uses the trademarked probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis B420, which has been specifically studied for use in managing
While it doesnt need to be refrigerated, FloraVantage Control does need to be stored below 75F (24C). As such, its important to purchase the product from a reputable retailer to ensure that it is stored and shipped at a proper temperature.
Bariatric Advantage supplements are manufactured in CGMP compliant facilities. However, products are not third-party tested to confirm purity and potency.
This product also comes at a lower cost than mindbodygreen probiotics+.
Best vegan-friendly probiotic for weight loss
- Price range: $$$
- Serving size: 1 capsule daily
- CFU count: 50 billion CFU
- Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL-60 & CUL-21, Lactobacillus plantarum CUL-66, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CUL-34, Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL-20
- Certifications: NSF certified facilities
The probiotic strains used in Genestra Brands HMF Metabolic were clinically tested in a study funded by Cultech Limited, a supplement ingredient manufacturer.
A
The effects were more pronounced in women and people with obesity.
However, its important to note that those who took the probiotics only experienced 1.5% weight loss, while
Unlike the other two supplements above, Genestra Brands HMF Metabolic is vegan-friendly, though it does require refrigeration.
Best budget-friendly probiotic for weight loss
- Price range: $
- Serving size: 1 capsule daily
- CFU count: 12 billion CFU
- Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG 10 billion CFU, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis CECT 8145 2 billion CFU
Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management Capsules is the most affordable option on our list.
The supplement contains Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis CECT 8145, a strain that
Keep in mind that in the study above, people were given a probiotic supplement with 10 billion CFU, which is more than the 2 billion found in Culturelle Metabolism + Weight Management. Therefore, its unknown whether this supplement contains an effective dose.
While Culturelle products are not routinely tested for purity and potency by a third-party lab, the company states that it takes multiple measures to ensure quality and safety.
Best probiotic for women
- Price range: $$
- Serving size: 2 capsules daily
- CFU count: 20 billion CFU
- Strains: Lactobacillus gasseri BNR17, Lactobacillus acidophilus, DDS-1, Lactobacillus plantarum, UALp-05, Lactobacillus reuteri, UALre-16, Lactobacillus salivarius, UALs-07, Lactobacillus casei, UALC-03, Lactobacillus paracasei, UALpc-04, Bifidobacterium lactis, UABla-12, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, LGG, Bifidobacterium lactise, BB-12
RenewLife Healthy Weight 2-in-1 Prebiotics + Probiotics contain Lactobacillus gasseri BNR17 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, two probiotic strains that have been studied for their use in weight management.
A
Another study found that women with obesity who took L. rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724, along with making dietary changes, experienced significant weight and fat loss after 12 weeks. These changes were sustained at 24 weeks. Interestingly, the probiotic did not have a significant effect in men.
Its important to note that while RenewLife Healthy Weight 2-in-1 Prebiotics + Probiotics contain L. rhamnosus, it does not specify whether its the CGMCC strain.
Renew Life Healthy Weight 2-in-1 Prebiotics + Probiotics is dairy-free, but its not certified as vegan. Additionally, youll need to keep it stored in the refrigerator because it isnt shelf-stable.
Heres a quick look at how our top picks compare:
*Third-party testing refers to whether products are tested to confirm purity and potency by an independent lab.
Only a few probiotic strains have been clinically tested for effectiveness in weight loss and management:
- B. animalis ssp. lactis 420
- B. animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145
- L. rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724
- L. gasseri BNR 17
- a multi-strain blend of L. acidophilus CUL60, L. acidophilus CUL21, L. plantarum CUL66, B. bifidum CUL20, and B. animalis subsp. lactis CUL34
The methods by which these probiotic strains affect body weight arent well understood, but its thought that they may reduce inflammation by regulating the gut microbiome, reduce
When shopping for probiotics to assist in your weight loss efforts, its important to look for one of the above strains.
Also keep in mind that while they may be appropriate for general gut health support, most broad-spectrum probiotics dont contain the exact strains that have been shown to be effective for weight loss.
For example, a probiotic supplement may list Lactobacillus rhamnosus on the ingredient list. However, there are many types of L. rhamnosus, and only L. rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724 has been shown to be effective for weight loss.
By looking at the label, its impossible to know whether the product in question contains the correct strain for weight loss.
When shopping for a probiotic to support your weight loss efforts, its important to consider several factors, including your dietary needs and the products probiotic strains, CFU count, storage requirements, third-party testing, and cost.
Does it contain the exact strain that youre looking for?
Make sure to choose a product that contains a probiotic strain that has been shown to be effective for weight management.
The Clinical Guide to Probiotic Products is a handy reference that lists brand names of clinically tested probiotic strains and their proposed uses.
Does it contain an effective dose?
In addition to containing an evidence-based strain, probiotics for weight loss should contain an effective dose of that strain.
For example, Bifidobacterium lactis B-420 has been shown to be effective at a dose of 10 billion CFU per day.
Additionally, weight loss studies using a mix of Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL-60, Lactobacillus acidophilus CUL-21, Lactobacillus plantarum CUL-66, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CUL-34, and Bifidobacterum bifidum CUL-20 were effective at 50 billion CFU per day.
Look for a product that has
Does it need to be refrigerated?
Probiotics may be shelf-stable (stored at room temperature), or they may require refrigeration.
If you travel often for work or dont always have access to a refrigerator, its best to go with a shelf-stable product.
Is it third-party tested?
Because the FDA does not regulate supplements in the same way as pharmaceuticals, the best way to ensure the safety, purity, and potency of a probiotic supplement is to purchase a product thats third-party tested by a credible organization.
Some examples of third-party organizations to look for are:
- NSF International
- USP
- UL Solutions
Do you have any food allergies or intolerances?
If so, look for products that meet your specific dietary needs, such as vegan, vegetarian, dairy-free, soy-free, or gluten-free.
How much does it cost?
Probiotics can vary in price, so compare brands and buy based on what you can afford.
Probiotics are generally considered safe for healthy adults. However, using an inappropriate strain can upset the balance of your gut microbiome and may cause gastrointestinal side effects such as
In some cases, probiotics may be harmful, such as for those with
The
- have autoimmune conditions
- have heart conditions
- have been diagnosed with HIV
- take immune-suppressing drugs
- are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation
- are pregnant or nursing
- have recently had surgery
As with any supplement, its important to consult a healthcare professional before adding a probiotic to your wellness routine.
Probiotic supplements are usually taken once or twice per day or as directed by a healthcare professional. Supplements can be taken at any time of the day, but the best time is after a meal.
This is because food helps neutralize the acidic environment of your stomach, allowing the probiotic bacteria to survive in your digestive tract.
Just keep in mind that probiotics and antibiotics should be spaced at least 2 hours apart.
When paired with a healthy diet and regular physical activity, probiotics may help you lose weight and trim your waistline. However, probiotic supplements on their own wont lead to dramatic weight loss or a flat tummy.
Overall, research on probiotics for weight loss is limited.
However, some studies have found certain strains including B. animalis ssp. lactis 420 and CECT 8145, L. rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724, L. gasseri BNR17, L. acidophilus CUL-60 and CUL-21, L. plantarum CUL-66, B. animalis subsp. lactis CUL-34, and B. bifidum CUL-20 to be effective for weight loss and appetite regulation.
While its important to choose a product containing probiotic strains that have been shown to be effective for weight loss, keep in mind that probiotic supplements are just one tool to assist in your weight loss efforts.
To reach and maintain your weight loss goal, youll still need to focus on other healthy habits, including eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.
