Best probiotics for gastritis
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7 Best Probiotics For Gastritis That Works Fast (trusted brands)

Dr. Dimitar

Medically reviewed by Dr. Dimitar Marinov, September 14, 2023

Millions of people suffer from gastritis, a condition wherein the lining of your stomach becomes inflamed. Many of those cases are due to Helicobacter pylori. You’re not alone in this situation.

That’s why I’ve prepared this guide to help you find the best probiotics for gastritis. 

Although I discovered that most probiotic supplements don’t really prevent or cure this condition, the good news is that many can help alleviate the symptoms you might be experiencing.

Here’s a pro tip if you’re unsure: pick a probiotic supplement that contains Lactobacillus strains, including Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus plantarum. Something with Bifidobacterium can also be a good idea.

You can find my top picks for the best probiotics for gastritis that contain these strains below:

Key Highlights

How I Picked The Best Probiotics for Gastritis (6 Solid Factors)

You know, not all probiotics are created equal – and they’re made for different purposes. That’s why it’s important to find the best one that can work for what you want to treat (or its symptoms, at least).

Probiotic supplements usually contain a higher concentration of live bacteria than probiotic drinks or food. But based on my research, there’s no guarantee that they can actually prevent, treat, or cure any gastric diseases, including gastritis.

The good news is that these probiotics can help alleviate stomach upset, bloating, and cramping – which are some of the symptoms of gastritis. Also, they can help promote healthy bowel elimination, which can be essential in keeping your gut healthy.

When picking the best probiotics, it’s good to consider the strains they have, the CFU count (colony-forming units), and the brand. A good rule of thumb is to follow your instinct and go for trusted brands.

1. Probiotic Strains That Can Work Best for Gastritis

Did you know that Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a bacterial strain that is often the culprit for gastritis? It’s also associated with the development of peptic ulcers and even stomach cancer.

A 2021 study published in the BMC (BioMed Central) Gastroenterology journal showed that several probiotic strains can be effective in eradicating H. pylori through methods such as:

  • Enhancing mucus production
  • Competitive inhibition
  • Modulating immune response
  • Producing bacteriocins
  • Co-aggregation ability
  • Altering the gut microbiome
  • Enhancing the immune system 

So, which probiotic is good for gastritis?

Based on the study above, here are the probiotic strains you should find in your probiotic supplement, to get the best results against H. pylori:

  • Lactobacillus casei
  • Lactobacillus reuteri
  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
  • Saccharomyces boulardii 

A 2019 study in the Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine journal also showed that these strains can be more effective against H. pylori than other probiotic strains:

  • Lactobacillus acidophilus
  • Lactobacillus bulgaricus

Aside from looking for these good bacteria strains, it’s also a good idea to check for other factors that can enhance your probiotics’ effectiveness in alleviating gastritis symptoms.

2. Clinically Studied Strains

Choosing probiotics with clinically studied strains puts you one step closer to the best supplements for gastritis. 

After all, researchers have spent several months, some even years, studying these strains and how they can be effective for gastritis and other tummy issues. Surely, all these studies can vouch for their effectiveness.

3. Proof of Results

The burden of finding proof of the probiotic products’ effectiveness lies on the manufacturer (and you can’t always trust what they post on their ads). That’s why we should go for trusted brands, such as Yourbiology Gut+.

4. High CFU Count

The high CFU count is essential in ensuring that there’s a better likelihood of your probiotic strains reaching your small intestines where they’re actually needed.

CFU stands for “colony-forming units,” which is a measurement of the number of viable bacteria in a probiotic product. A higher CFU count can indicate a more potent and effective product, as it means more live bacteria can reach the gut and colonize it.

Let’s take YourBiology Gut+ (which is great for both men and women) for example:

YourBiology Gut+ CFU strains
YourBiology Gut+ CFU live strains

It contains 4 live + potent strains of good gut bacteria that deliver 40 billion CFUs safely per dose and without stomach issues. The best part is that the three popular strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Bifidobacterium lactis) which are responsible for improving gastritis symptoms are present in YourBiology Gut+, unlike other brands.

This can be especially important for individuals with gastritis, as it is believed that certain strains of bacteria may be able to help alleviate symptoms and improve gut health.

5. Contains Prebiotics

Also, the prebiotics can help protect them from stomach acids through the journey, and provide them with food to thrive when they arrive.

6. Formulated By A Doctor Or Other Experts

When choosing probiotics for gastritis, look for products formulated by doctors or experts. They can determine the best strains and doses for your condition, taking into account your medical history and current medications. These formulations are also likely to have undergone testing for safety and effectiveness.

The 7 Best Probiotics For Gastritis

1. Yourbiology Gut+ (Best Probiotic with #1 Clinically Studied Probiotic and Guaranteed CFU)

yourbiology gut +

CFU: 40 billion

Dosage: 2 capsules per day; for best results, take one during the day and one at night

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus paracasei, and Bifidobacterium lactis

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: GMP-certified (Good Manufacturing Practice)

Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required

Cost: $64.99 for 60 capsules (one month supply)

Discounts are also provided if you buy more. For example, getting 2 bottles gives you 1 bottle free, while buying 3 bottles gives you 2 bottles free.

This brand offers better absorption and probiotic survival with the use of capsule protection technology called MAKtrek®marine polysaccharide complex, a patented ingredient derived from brown seaweed.

The seaweed complex coats and shields the probiotics, helping them survive the harsh journey to reach your small intestines.

Because the probiotics are designed for release in the small intestines, not only is it set for better probiotic survival, but it also helps avoid bloating and gas.

Like the other probiotics, however, this isn’t specifically designed to treat or prevent gastritis. However, it can help improve digestion, promote bowel movement, and strengthen your immunity. In turn, these might help you minimize the risks of gastritis and other gut issues.

Pros:

  • Four live strains to reduce symptoms of stomach upset
  • Helps reduce stress by improving serotonin levels
  • Offers risk-free 2-month trial, with a money-back guarantee
  • Gluten-free
  • Soy-free
  • Dairy-free
  • Zero preservatives

Cons:

  • Higher price tag than similar probiotics
  • Not as readily available from other shops as other probiotics

Where to buy:

2. Biotics 8 (Best Probiotic for Men Suffering From Gastritis)

Biotics 8 probiotics for men

CFU: 20 billion

Dosage: 3 capsules per day; for best results, take them all first thing in the morning

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium breve, Saccharomyces boulardii, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus fermentum

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: GMP-certified

Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required

Cost: $64.99 for 90 capsules (1 month supply)

The brand also offers discounts if you buy more: buy 2 bottles to get 1 bottle free, or buy 3 bottles to get 2 bottles free.

One of the best probiotics specially formulated for men, it can also help boost testosterone levels aside from promoting better digestion and fortifying your immune system.

It helps relieve some of the systems associated with gastritis, including bloating and gut discomfort.

Due to having 10 strains, this probiotic supplement can have a better chance of helping alleviate gastritis and other gut issues. It even has four of the six recommended probiotic strains mentioned in the studies above.

Pros:

  • Targeted for men
  • Contains 4 of 6 recommended probiotic strains
  • Gluten-free
  • Soy-free
  • Offers risk-free trial with a 60-day money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • Contains Chicory Root prebiotic fiber which can trigger IBS symptoms in some people
  • Not as readily available from other shops as the other probiotics
  • Formulated only for men; best to be avoided by women because it can boost testosterone levels

Where to buy:

3. Culturelle Digestive Health Probiotic

culturelle-digestive-daily

CFU: 10 billion 

Dosage: 1 capsule per day; can be increased to 2 capsules per day if you’re experiencing occasional digestive upset

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: Not indicated

Storage: Shelf-stable and best stored in a cool, dry place that’s away from sunlight; refrigeration isn’t required

Cost: $17.99 for 30 capsules or $23.99 for 50 capsules

This probiotic is simple enough to only have one good bacteria strain. However, that isn’t something to worry about because it contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, the #1 clinically studied probiotic backed by over 35 years of science.

For example, it’s among the probiotic strains recommended by the 2021 BMC Gastroenterology study mentioned above.

This good bacteria has also been demonstrated to survive the harsh journey across stomach acids.

According to Web MD, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is also popularly used to alleviate symptoms associated with different tummy issues (which can include gastritis):

  • Bloating or indigestion
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Stomach pain
  • Gas (excessive farting or burping)

It can also help support digestion and improve immune defenses.

I especially love that the capsules are individually packed and sealed in double aluminum blister cards to prevent air, light, and moisture from getting in. Remember that exposure to the elements can affect the viability of the probiotics. So, having these supplements individually sealed is truly a good idea.

The brand also guarantees the full amount of probiotic CFUs as stated on the label – and they test that by measuring the number of live probiotics on products at their expiration date!

Pros:

  • Contains inulin (chicory root extract), a type of prebiotic
  • Can also help alleviate travel-related stomach and digestive issues
  • Naturally sourced probiotic
  • Dairy-free
  • Wheat-free or gluten-free
  • Egg-free
  • Peanut-free
  • Tree nut-free
  • Also free from GMOs

Cons:

  • Only one type of probiotic used
  • Lower CFU than other products (such as choice #1 above which has 20 billion CFUs)
  • Contains inulin from chicory root extract, which can be a trigger for IBS (if you have this condition)
  • Some complaints on Amazon about the probiotic not working for them, or the product having a terrible taste and scent

Where to buy: 

4. Optibac Every Day EXTRA Probiotics (Best Scientifically Formulated Probiotic)

optibac probiotics every day

CFU: 20 billion

Dosage: 1 capsule daily, preferably with breakfast; can be increased to 2 capsules with your doctor’s recommendation

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Clinically studied strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Lactobacillus paracasei Lpc-37, Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, and Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: Not indicated

Storage: Shelf-stable, but best stored in a cool, dry place below 25°C in its original glass jar, with the lid firmly closed and the desiccant sachet inside; you can also refrigerate this probiotic for maximum potency after opening

Cost: $29.99 for 30 capsules or $69.99 for 90 capsules

This high-strength probiotic supplement is a good choice because it contains Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, the world’s most researched acidophilus strain. 

High-quality, multi-strain probiotics help replenish the good bacteria in your gut, thereby eliminating the “bad guys” such as H. pylori, as explained in the studies above. The supplement can provide optimal support for your digestive system and also help improve your gut and immune system’s health. 

I also love that the number of live probiotics indicated on the label is guaranteed until the “Best Before” date.

Pros:

  • Suitable for vegans and vegetarians
  • Can be used during pregnancy and lactation (but please consult with your OB-GYNE first)
  • Dairy-free
  • Soy-free
  • Gluten-free
  • Yeast-free
  • Free from artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives
  • Free from parabens and chemicals
  • Also free from GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
  • Free from prebiotic FOS (fructo-oligosaccharides) which can make it suitable for those with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), with your doctor’s approval
  • Suitable for those taking long-term antibiotics as long as taken 2 hours away from the medication or only after a course of antibiotics (but with your doctor’s go signal)

Cons:

  • Doesn’t contain prebiotics
  • Some complaints on Amazon that the product didn’t work for them or had made their symptoms worse

Where to buy:

5. Probulin Daily Care Probiotic (Best Doctor-Formulated Probiotic with 12 Strains)

probulin daily care

CFU: 10 billion

Dosage: One capsule daily, with or without meals; best taken at bedtime for optimal results

Probiotics Strains/Strains: 7 billion CFU of Lactobacillus blend (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus fermentum, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus brevis, and Lactobacillus reuteri) and 3 billion CFU of Bifidobacteria blend (Bifidobacteria breve, Bifidobacteria lactis, Bifidobacteria longum, Bifidobacteria bifidum, and Bifidobacteria infantis)

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: Not indicated

Storage: Shelf-stable; doesn’t require refrigeration

Cost: $28.99 for 30 capsules or $53.99 for 60 capsules

Although it only has 10 billion CFUs of probiotics (our #1 choice has 20 billion CFUs), this brand is still an impressive choice because it contains 12 strains for optimal potency.

It contains four of the six recommended, scientifically studied probiotics we listed above – and that’s a really good thing because having these potent strains working together might make the supplement more effective against H. pylori (one of the main causes of gastritis).

This probiotic also helps maintain a healthy gut barrier, alleviates occasional gas and bloating, supports digestive health, and improves immune function.

What I really love about this probiotic supplement is that it was formulated by a board-certified doctor with over 20 years of experience.

Each capsule is protected by the MAKTrek3-D Specialized Delivery System through the following:

  • Hydration with vital electrolytes through the proprietary isotonic delivery (because probiotic bacteria also need hydration to survive)
  • Nourishment with prebiotics so your live bacteria remain active and well-fed throughout the journey
  • Protection from harsh stomach acids by traveling along the gut in a “Seaweed Submarine” made of uniquely harvested brown seaweed extract 

Plus, even if the supplement is shelf-stable, the brand pampers the probiotics by shipping them cold using eco-friendly insulation and Enviro Ice. 

They explained that delivery trucks’ temperature can reach up to 150º on hot days, which can be bad for probiotics (reducing their shelf life or even killing the live microorganisms). Shipping the products helps protect them throughout the entire journey.

Pros:

  • Wheat-free (also gluten-free)
  • Dairy-free
  • Soy-free
  • Free from magnesium stearate and other chemicals
  • Free from GMOs

Cons:

  • Contains prebiotic inulin; although that’s good for most people and provides food for your probiotics, it’s something to watch out for if you have IBS

Where to buy:

6. Pendulum Life Butyricum (Most Unique Probiotic Strain for Gastritis)

Pendulum Butyricum probiotics

CFU/AFU: 15 million AFU (active fluorescent units)

Dosage: 1 capsule per day

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Clostridium butyricum

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified

Storage: Shelf-stable

Cost: $79 for 30 capsules

The brand offers discounted rates to $49 for 30 capsules with membership.

It contains Clostridium butyricum, a unique probiotic that isn’t usually used by other brands. This targeted probiotic strain is naturally found in the gut and can help with anti-inflammatory responses to alleviate the symptoms of gut issues.

Although it’s best for inflammatory bowel disease, this probiotic can still help promote better digestive health to help you avoid gastritis. It also helps alleviate symptoms such as gas or bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Despite being a less-utilized strain compared with the others, there’s no reason to fear Clostridium butyricum because it has been studied even back in a 2015 research about its role in inflammatory bowel disease.

Pros: 

  • Uses a unique probiotic strain
  • Doesn’t contain inulin (which can trigger IBS symptoms)

Cons:

  • Having a rare probiotic strain makes this product less understood than others
  • It can be more expensive than the other probiotics
  • Limited options to get this product online from other shops

Where to buy:

7. 1MD Nutrition Complete Probiotics Platinum (Best Probiotic with the Highest CFU)

1MD Nutrition Complete Probiotics Platinum

CFU: 51 billion

Dosage: 1 capsule per day; best taken on an empty stomach or in between meals (but you can take it with a small meal if you have sensitivity issues)

Probiotics Strains/Strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, and LactoSpore (Bacillus coagulans)

Form/Type: Capsule

Certifications: GMP-certified

Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required

Cost: $49.99 for 30 capsules

Discounted rates are also offered if you buy more than one bottle of this probiotic or if you buy it with a subscription. For example, buying 3 bottles will cost just $43.99 per bottle, while getting 6 bottles will cost just $37.99 per bottle.

Buying a month’s worth of supplies through a subscription will cost $40.99 per bottle, 3 months’ supply every 3 months will cost $35.99 each, and 6 months’ supply every 6 months will cost only $29.99 each.

This brand contains the highest number of probiotic strains, with the highest CFUs. It also has four of the six recommended probiotic strains from the studies above.

The blend helps alleviate symptoms of gastritis and other gut issues such as occasional gas, indigestion, and bloating. It can also help promote better digestion and absorption to resolve your gut problems.

Having so many CFUs and bacterial strains also makes this probiotic ideal for a broad spectrum of digestive health concerns.

Pros:

  • Dairy-free
  • Peanut-free
  • Wheat-free (and gluten-free)
  • Shellfish-free
  • GMO-free
  • Preservative-free

Cons:

  • Some complaints on Amazon about the product not working for them or causing skin breakouts
  • Not too many shops to buy this product

Where to buy:

  • 1MD official website: $49.99 (30 capsules, 1 bottle), 3 bottles at $43.99 each, or 6 bottles at $37.99 per bottle for one-time purchase; special rates for subscription: 1 month’s supply at $40.99 each, 3 months’ supply at $35.99 each, and 6 months’ supply at $29.99 each
  • Amazon: $44.95 (30 capsules)

How to Maximize Probiotic Effectiveness to Help with Gastritis

Some tips to ensure optimal probiotic effectiveness:

  • Take probiotics as directed (e.g., some brands recommend taking their probiotics at breakfast or before bedtime)
  • If the brand doesn’t have recommendations, take your probiotics about 30 minutes before a meal
  • Store your probiotics in their original containers, and as directed by the manufacturer (REMINDER: some brands might require refrigeration)
  • Limit food and drinks that can worsen your gastritis, including drinks containing alcohol or caffeine, and spicy, acidic, fatty, or dairy foods that can worsen inflammation
  • Eat more foods with natural probiotics for gastritis, such as fermented products like yogurt (Yakult), kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, natto, tempeh, and non-alcoholic kombucha 

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