Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
FACT CHECKED
We adhere to a strict methodology when reviewing products. We strive to deliver you an unbiased opinion on products and services so that you're able to make an informed decision. Learn More
We may earn a commission on purchases made through links on this page at no cost to you. Learn More
As the focus on men's health continues to rise, more individuals are exploring ways to enhance their overall well-being. One approach to achieving this is by maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
For men who experience digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain, consuming probiotic-rich foods or taking a daily probiotic supplement can alleviate symptoms. However, with the abundance of probiotics on the market, it can take time to determine the most suitable for men.
This piece will provide an overview of what you need to know about men's probiotics, including tips for selecting a high-quality supplement, determining if it may be beneficial for you, and an overview of the 5 best probiotic supplements currently available for men.
5 Best Probiotics For Men
- Overall Best: Ritual Synbiotic+
- Runner-Up: Transparent Labs Gut Health
- Subscription Pick: Swolverine Probiotix
- Probiotic Gummies: Elm&Rye Probiotic
- For Weight Loss: Metagenics UltraFlora Control
SFS Pick
Ritual
SFS 2nd Pick
Transparent Labs
Subscription Pick
Swolverine
1. Overall Best Probiotic For Men: Ritual Synbiotic+
Ritual Synbiotic+ contains a 3-in-1 clinically studied blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics that work together to balance gut health better. This combination of ingredients is claimed to be more effective than just probiotics alone.
One of the critical features of Ritual Synbiotic+ is that it contains 11B CFUs of the world's most clinically studied probiotic strains, including BB-12 and LGG, which have been shown to improve gut health and boost the immune system.
Additionally, Ritual Synbiotic+ is vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, allergen-free, made traceable, and 3rd party tested, which means that it has been independently verified to meet specific standards. Another benefit is that it doesn't need to be refrigerated because the bottle is designed with moisture-controlled technology to help protect the bacterial strains.
Overall, Ritual Synbiotic+ is a high-quality probiotic supplement with clinically studied strains and the added benefit of prebiotics and postbiotics. It may be an excellent option for improving gut health and overall well-being.
Probiotics: BB-12 and LGG | 11B CFUs
Purported Benefits: Improves gut health & boosts immune system
Pros
- Includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics
- Money back guarantee
- No refrigeration needed
- Major allergen-free
Cons
- Not the cheapest option
3-in-1 clinically-studied prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotic to support a balanced gut microbiome....
2. Runner-Up Best Probiotic For Men: Transparent Labs Gut Health
Transparent Labs is known for its transparent and science-based approach to supplement formulation, providing detailed information about the product's ingredients, dosages, and research behind it. Their Gut Health Series Probiotic is no exception.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Series Probiotic is a highly potent and comprehensive probiotic supplement formulated with ten clinically studied strains of probiotics. These specific probiotic bacteria strains of Lactobacilli, Bifidobacteria, and Streptococci are known to promote a healthy gut microbiome.
The supplement is also ultra-potent, containing 100 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) per serving, which is a much higher dose than most other probiotic supplements on the market. One of the benefits of this probiotic is that it is free from gluten, non-GMO and vegan, making it suitable for people with dietary restrictions.
Additionally, it is free from artificial sweeteners, colorings, and preservatives, making it a pure and natural option for those looking to support their gut health.
Probiotics:
- Lactobacillus Acidophilus (LA-14) | 25 Billion CFU
- Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (LR-32) | 15 Billion CFU
- Lactobacillus Casei (LC-11) | 10 Billion CFU
- Lactobacillus Plantarum (LLP-115) | 10 Billion CFU
- Lactobacillus Paracasei (LPC-37) | 10 Billion CFU
- Bifidobacterium Lactis (BL-04) | 10 Billion CFU
- Lactobacillus Salivarius (LS-33) | 5 Billion CFU
- Streptococcus Thermophilus (ST-21) | 5 Billion CFU
- Bifidobacterium Bifidum (BB-02) | 5 Billion CFU
- Bifidobacterium Breve (BB-03) | 5 Billion CFU
Pros
- No artificial BS
- Transparent and open supplement label
- Research-backed ingredients
- Vegan-friendly
Cons
- The product is processed in a facility that has nuts
Transparent Labs Gut Health Series Probiotic is one of the most comprehensive and robust probiotic supplements on the market, featuring an ultra-potent 100 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) dose in every serving...
3. Best Subscription Probiotic For Men: Swolverine Probiotix
SWOLVERINE is an athlete and active lifestyle brand. It is made for the elite and strong-willed athletes to fuel your athletic performance.
Swolverine Probiotix maintains the balance in your body's microbiota to help keep the gut healthy and assist in nutrient absorption. The Swolverine Probiotix contains 5.75 billion CFU from seven probiotics: Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus Rhamnosus, Lactobacillus Casei, Bifidobacterium Longum, Lactobacillus Acidophilus, Lactobacillus Plantarum, and Bifidobacterium Breve.
This supplement is Non-GMO and soy free, which is excellent for individuals who worry about these factors. It is also sourced from a GMP-certified facility and was formulated in the USA.
Swolverine Probiotixs comes with 60 capsules per bottle, and recommends taking 1-3 capsules daily with meals. You can subscribe to a flexible delivery option to make this product reasonably priced.
Probiotics: 5.75B CFUs total in blend
- Bacillus subtilis
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus casei
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Bifidobacterium breve
Purported Benefits: Promote healthy gut and assists in nutrient absorption
Pros
- Subscription saves money
- Non-GMO & soy free
- Seven different probiotics
Cons
- Not certified vegan-friendly
Probiotix works to help maintain the balance in your body's microbiota. The human body carries nearly 100 trillion bacteria in the gut...
4. Best Probiotic Gummies For Men: Elm&Rye Probiotic
Elm & Rye is a relatively new supplement brand quickly gaining popularity and customer satisfaction. The company prides itself on using pure and sustainably sourced ingredients and taking into account the environmental and social impact of its ingredient sourcing and product packaging.
Elm & Rye supplements are 3rd-party tested for purity and potency, and the results are available for customers to review on their website. Elm & Rye Probiotics delivers 2 billion CFU of the probiotic strain Lactobacillus acidophilus.
While it only contains one probiotic, it is of high quality and sustainable. Unlike many supplements on this list, you can choose between capsules and gummies.
This is an excellent option for those who struggle with taking capsules and would rather eat a delicious alternative. If for whatever reason, you are unsatisfied with your order, then you can return your product for a full refund within 30 days.
Probiotics: Lactobacillus acidophilus | 2B CFUs
Purported Benefits: Helps with digestive issues and promotes good bacteria growth
Pros
- Third-party tested & tastes delicious
- Lab results are on display on the website
- Premium ingredients
- Great for gut bacteria
Cons
- Lower CFU count than other options
Our Daily Probiotic was designed for those that need an extra boost to their digestion...
5. Best Weight Loss Probiotic For Men: Metagenics UltraFlora Control
Metagenics UltraFlora Control is a daily probiotic dietary supplements that helps support healthy weight regulation and gut health. This probiotic supplement features a blend of 10 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium Lactis B-420, which has been shown in studies to help control body fat and body weight.
All Metagenics probiotics are tested extensively for potentially harmful contaminants and are stored in temperature and humidity-controlled conditions to protect the organisms from heat and moisture. The CFU count is always guaranteed through the expiration date to ensure the product's potency.
Metagenics also have their formulas scientifically tested and assayed to ensure the strain's potency, purity, and identity. This product is non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegetarian-friendly.
Is this product right for you? Metagenics UltraFlora Control comes with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
Probiotics: Bifidobacterium Lactis | 10B CFUs
Purported Benefits: Helps with digestion issues and promotes healthy gut
Pros
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Supports healthy body weight regulation
- It comes with a satisfaction guarantee
- Intense quality testing
Cons
- It requires refrigeration
Features a proprietary blend of Bifidobacterium lactis B-420 B. lactis B-420 has been shown to help control body fat and body weight...
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics play a critical role in maintaining the balance of the gut microbiome, which is the collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. These microorganisms are essential for many aspects of health, including digestion, immune function, and overall well-being.
Probiotics work by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the gut, which can help to crowd out harmful bacteria and yeast. This can help improve the gut microbiome's balance, providing many health benefits.
It's worth noting that different strains of probiotics can have different effects on the body, so it's crucial to choose a probiotic supplement that has been specifically formulated for the health concern you're looking to address. It's also important to remember that beneficial bacteria probiotics aren't a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
You should always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Benefits of Probiotics:
Probiotics work by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the gut, which can help to promote a healthy balance of the gut microbiome. This balance of beneficial gut bacteria is crucial for the proper functioning of the digestive system, the immune system, and overall well-being.
Probiotics can help improve the gut microbiome's balance by crowding out harmful bacteria and yeast, thus leading to several health benefits.
1. Supports immune health
Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that can aid in boosting immune health by stimulating the production of antibodies and white blood cells. These antibodies and white blood cells are the body's initial line of defense against harmful pathogens and other unwanted invaders.
Probiotics can also reduce inflammation in the body, which can help protect against various health conditions, including allergies, autoimmune diseases, and certain types of cancer. Some studies have also suggested that probiotics can aid in reducing the severity and frequency of colds and other upper respiratory infections.
However, it's important to note that more is needed to fully understand the relationship between probiotics and immune health.1
2. Supports digestive health
Probiotics can help to better the balance of the gut bacteria by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the gut, which can help to crowd out harmful bacteria and yeast. This can lead to several digestive health benefits.
High-quality probiotics can help to break down food, absorb nutrients, and produce enzymes that aid in digestion. They can also help to make bowel movements more consistent, which can be particularly beneficial for people who suffer from constipation or diarrhea.
Probiotics can to relieve symptoms of conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.2 They also help to prevent infections like traveler's diarrhea and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
It's important to note that different strains of probiotics can have different effects on the digestive system, so it's important to choose a probiotic supplement that has been specifically formulated for the digestive health concern you're looking to address.
3. Supports healthy weight
Probiotic supplementation can influence weight by modifying the gut bacteria, which affects energy metabolism and appetite regulation. Some studies have found that certain strains of probiotics can increase the number of "good" bacteria in the gut and reduce the number of "bad" bacteria.
This can lead to changes in the metabolism and absorption of food, which can affect weight. Probiotics may also affect weight by influencing appetite and satiety hormones.
Studies have shown that certain probiotic strains can increase the release of hormones that signal fullness and reduce hunger.3 More research is required to understand the full relationship between probiotics and weight management fully.
5. Supports Male reproductive function
There is evidence to suggest that probiotics can support male reproductive function. Still, more research is needed to understand the relationship between probiotics and male reproductive health fully. Probiotic supplements can influence male reproductive function by modifying the gut bacteria, which plays an important role in various aspects of health, including the immune system and hormone regulation.
Some studies have found that certain strains of probiotics can increase the number of "good" bacteria in the gut and reduce the number of "bad" bacteria. This can lead to changes in the metabolism and absorption of food, which can affect hormone regulation and the immune system, both of which play a role in male reproductive health.
An older study suggests that certain probiotic strains can improve sperm quality and fertility in men.4 However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine which probiotic strains are most effective for improving male reproductive function.
6. Can support mental health
A growing body of research suggests that probiotics may support mental health. The good gut bacteria plays a role in various aspects of health, including the immune system and hormone regulation.
Probiotic supplements can effect the gut bacteria by establishing beneficial microorganisms into the gut, which can help to mitigate harmful bacteria and yeast. This can lead to changes in the metabolism and absorption of food, which can affect hormone regulation and the immune system, both of which play a role in mental health.
Probiotics have been found to have an effect on the gut-brain axis, which is the connection between the gut, intestinal health, and the brain. Studies have shown that certain probiotic strains can improve symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress.
Some researchers have suggested that probiotics also improve cognitive function and memory.5
7. Prostate health
Probiotic supplements can sway the gut microbiome by introducing beneficial microorganisms into the gut. This can lead to changes in the metabolism and absorption of food, which can affect hormone regulation and the immune system, both of which play a role in prostate health.
Probiotics have been found to have an effect on the gut-prostate axis, which is the connection between the gut and the prostate.6 Some studies have shown that probiotics can help to reduce inflammation and improve the immune system, which can help to protect against prostate cancer.
However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine which probiotic strains are most effective for improving prostate health. It's worth noting that probiotics should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care, and it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have a history of prostate issues.
Side effects of Probiotics
Probiotics are generally considered safe and well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects. Probiotics' most common side effects include gas, bloating, and stomach discomfort. These symptoms are usually temporary and can be minimized by starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it over time.
In some cases, probiotics can also cause an allergic reaction, particularly in people who are allergic to milk or other dairy products. People who are immunocompromised, have a history of autoimmune diseases or have a history of gut infections should consult a healthcare professional before taking probiotics.
It's also worth noting that probiotics can interact with certain medications, so it's important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you're taking any prescription or over-the-counter medications.
Some other rare side effects that have been reported include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking probiotics, you must stop taking them and consult with a healthcare professional.
What to look for when buying probiotics for men:
Choosing the right probiotic supplement can be overwhelming, with so many options available on the market. To reduce the risk of making a poor purchase choice, several factors must be considered to ensure that you get a high-quality product.
1. Ingredients (strains, etc.)
When choosing a probiotic supplement, it's essential to pay attention to its ingredients. The probiotic strains included in the supplement are crucial, as different strains have different health benefits.
It's best to choose a supplement that contains strains that have been specifically shown to be effective for the health concern you're looking to address. Additionally, some probiotic supplements contain prebiotics which are non-digestible carbohydrates that act as a food source for probiotics; this can help to support the growth and survival of probiotics in the gut.
Furthermore, it's essential to look for minimal fillers and binders and avoid any that contain artificial ingredients, preservatives, or allergens. It's also worth checking if the probiotic is shelf stable and doesn't need to be refrigerated.
The quality of the probiotic is also crucial; look for probiotics from reputable manufacturers that follow good manufacturing practices (GMP) and look for a probiotic supplement that is labeled as "non-GMO" and "gluten-free" if this is important to you.
2. Dosages
The recommended dosage can vary depending on the specific probiotic strain and the health concern you're looking to address. Some probiotic supplements will have a higher CFU (colony forming units) count than others, which can affect the recommended dosage.
It's always a good idea to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it over time. This will help minimize potential side effects and give you time to adjust to the probiotics.
It's also important to follow the recommended dosage on the probiotic supplement label and not exceed the maximum recommended dose. It's also worth noting that while probiotics can be beneficial, they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Probiotics are not a magic solution; they are one of the many tools to improve health and well-being. It is also essential to remember that taking probiotics is not a one-time event; they should be taken regularly to maintain the gut microbiome's balance and achieve the desired health benefits.
3. Testing/transparency
When buying probiotics, testing and transparency are important as they help ensure that the product is of high quality and contains the exact strains and dosages listed on the label. Third-party testing by a reputable laboratory verifies the potency and purity of the probiotic supplement and ensures that it is free of contaminants such as heavy metals and bacteria.
Choosing a probiotic supplement from a transparent company that follows good manufacturing practices and can provide detailed information about its products will give you a sense of security and confidence in the product you are consuming. For example, quality standards such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) are in place to ensure that probiotic supplements are produced in a clean, safe, and controlled environment.
4. Price
Price can be an important factor when buying probiotics, but it should not be the only factor considered. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, it's important to remember that the cheapest probiotic may not be the best quality.
It's essential to choose the best probiotics for men that contains the specific strains that are effective for the health concern you're looking to address, and that has been third-party tested for potency and purity. Choosing a product from a reputable and transparent company that follows good manufacturing practices is also essential.
It's important to balance cost with quality and effectiveness and to choose a probiotic supplement that meets your specific needs and is manufactured by a reputable company.
5. Reviews
Reviews can also provide information about the product's effectiveness and other users' experiences. However, it's important to read various reviews, consider your individual needs and consult with a healthcare professional before making a purchase.
It's also important to remember that not all reviews are trustworthy and that what works for one person may not work for another. A review should be considered as one of the factors when making a decision, but not the only factor.
Probiotics For Men FAQs
Are probiotics good for males?
Probiotics can be beneficial for males, as they support healthy bacteria, which can positively impact overall health, support gut health, hormone regulation, and digestion. Probiotics have also been suggested to support male reproductive function by improving sperm quality and fertility in men, although more research is needed to confirm these findings.
What is a good probiotic for men's health?
There are many different probiotic strains and supplements available. The best probiotic for men's health will depend on the individual and the specific health concerns they are looking to address.
However, the best probiotic overall is Ritual Synbiotic+.
What are the signs you need probiotics?
Several signs can indicate that you could benefit from taking probiotics. These include digestive issues such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
This may indicate that your gut microbiome is out of balance and that you could benefit from introducing beneficial microorganisms into your gut. Another sign could be issues with your immune function; if you find yourself getting sick frequently or having a weak immune system, probiotics can help to support your immune function.
Should men take probiotics every day?
It's recommended to take a high quality probiotic supplement regularly, ideally daily, to maintain a healthy a balanced gut microbiome and to achieve the desired health benefits. You could also try to incorporate fermented foods into your diet to get similar benefits to a supplement.
What is the downside of taking probiotics?
Probiotics are generally considered safe to consume, but they can cause some side effects, particularly in the first few days of use. Some of the most common side effects include irritable bowel syndrome, weakened immune system, and allergic reactions.
Summary
The growing attention on men's health has led more men to seek ways to improve their overall well-being, and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome through probiotics is one of the ways to achieve this. Probiotics can help alleviate symptoms of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and abdominal pain.
Choosing the right probiotic supplement can be overwhelming, with so many options available on the market. Use this guide to select the best probiotic supplement that meets your needs and supports your digestive and immune health.
More Probiotic Supplement Resources:
References
- Yan, Fang, and D.B. Polk. “Probiotics and Immune Health.” Current Opinion in Gastroenterology, vol. 27, no. 6, Nov. 2011, pp. 496–501, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4006993/, https://doi.org/10.1097/mog.0b013e32834baa4d.
- “Probiotics: What You Need to Know.” NCCIH, Aug. 2019, www.nccih.nih.gov/health/probiotics-what-you-need-to-know.
- Álvarez-Arraño, Valentina, and Sandra Martín-Peláez. “Effects of Probiotics and Synbiotics on Weight Loss in Subjects with Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review.” Nutrients, vol. 13, no. 10, 17 Oct. 2021, p. 3627, https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13103627.
- Helli, Bijan, et al. “Probiotic Effects on Sperm Parameters, Oxidative Stress Index, Inflammatory Factors and Sex Hormones in Infertile Men.” Human Fertility, 27 Sept. 2020, pp. 1–9, https://doi.org/10.1080/14647273.2020.1824080. Accessed 9 Apr. 2022.
- Harvard Health Publishing. “Probiotics May Help Boost Mood and Cognitive Function - Harvard Health.” Harvard Health, Harvard Health, 2019, www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/probiotics-may-help-boost-mood-and-cognitive-function.
- “Prostate Cancer Therapy and the Gut Microbiome.” Www.hopkinsmedicine.org, www.hopkinsmedicine.org/brady-urology-institute/patient-information/books-publications/articles/prostate-cancer-therapy-and-the-gut-microbiome. Accessed 12 Feb. 2023.
Andrew Lenau
Author