Probiotics That Helped Heal My Leaky Gut
As a certified Nutritionist and lifelong IBS sufferer, I know firsthand how crucial it is to find the right probiotics to support your gut health. Evidence-supported research highlights that specific strains of probiotics can help restore your gut’s natural balance, effectively enhancing the barrier function of your intestinal lining.
Therefore, it’s vital to choose probiotics with strains that have been scientifically proven to improve intestinal health. This means looking beyond generic products and focusing on those that include effective combinations of probiotics, prebiotics, and other gut-healing elements.
This article will guide you through the best options available, helping you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
Selecting The Right Supplement for Leaky Gut
Choosing the best supplement to address leaky gut involves focusing on specific probiotic strains and additional ingredients known to bolster intestinal health. The right combination can significantly improve the integrity of the gut lining and reduce symptoms.
Probiotic Strains that Improve Intestinal Permeability
>> Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG creates a protective biofilm that enhances the gut lining while reducing inflammation. It has shown promise in alleviating IBS symptoms linked to a leaky gut.
>> Lactobacillus acidophilus encourages occludin production, a protein essential for lowering intestinal permeability. This strain also has anti-inflammatory benefits and aids in managing chronic diarrhea.
>> Lactobacillus plantarum is effective in reducing intestinal permeability and boosting tight junction integrity. Commonly found in fermented foods, this strain helps with IBS and may prevent colitis.
>> Bifidobacterium infantis is noted for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to strengthen the gut lining. It has helped in managing Crohn’s disease markers and improving mental health related to gut issues.
>> Bifidobacterium animalis lactis BB-12 promotes the production of tight junction proteins and reduces digestive tract inflammation. It is beneficial for antibiotic-related diarrhea and improving bowel movements.
>> Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 strengthens the gut lining and defends against harmful pathogens. This strain is particularly helpful for maintaining remission in ulcerative colitis patients.
>> Saccharomyces boulardii boosts gut lining health and has antimicrobial properties. It can treat acute diarrhea and prevent IBD flare-ups.
>> Saccharomyces cerevisiae enhances gut permeability and may help with intestinal obstructions, particularly the UFMG 905 strain.
Other Ingredients for Added Benefits
Synbiotics, combining prebiotics and probiotics, are particularly effective as they help restore the gut barrier and reduce oxidative stress. They support the colonization of beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus, further enhancing gut health.
Including a blend of these probiotics and additional gut-supportive ingredients (such as trace elements) in your supplement regimen can provide comprehensive support for healing leaky gut.
5+ Best Probiotics for Leaky Gut
These probiotics contain a combination of strains and ingredients that help with the leaky gut as well as broader health concerns, such as IBS and IBD.
- Yourbiology Gut+ Probiotics
- Culturelle Daily Digestive
- Optibac Every Day Max Probiotics
- Biotics 8 Men’s Probiotics
- Dr. Jacob’s Iodine & Selenium Probio
- DS-01® Daily Synbiotic
1. Yourbiology Gut+ Probiotics
CFU: 20 billion
Dosage: 3 capsules daily, taken first thing in the morning
Probiotic Strains/Strains:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus fermentum
- Saccharomyces boulardii
- Lactobacillus casei
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Form/Type: Capsules
Certifications: GMP-certified, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan
Storage: No refrigeration needed
Cost: $64.99 + Free Shipping
Benefits For Leaky Gut:
Yourbiology Probiotics are specifically formulated to help heal a leaky gut. Strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus assist in sealing the gut lining, while Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus plantarum help reduce inflammation and gastrointestinal issues.
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2. Culturelle Daily Digestive Probiotics
CFU: 10 billion
Dosage: Take one capsule daily with or without food. When travelling, take two capsules daily (one in the morning and one at night). During antibiotic use, take one capsule twice daily and continue for 10 days after completion of antibiotics.
Probiotic Strains: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Vegetarian, non-GMO, gluten-free, allergy-friendly
Storage: Shelf-stable, no refrigeration needed
Cost: $17.99 for 30 count pack, and $26.99 fo50 count pack.
Benefits for Leaky Gut:
Culturelle Daily Digestive helps promote a healthy gut microbiome and supports good digestion, particularly addressing issues associated with leaky gut syndrome. The strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG is clinically proven for its effectiveness and ability to survive stomach acids, ensuring it reaches your intestines, where it can work to improve gut health.
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3. Optibac Every Day Max Probiotics
CFU: 75 billion per capsule
Dosage: 1 capsule daily, preferably with breakfast
Probiotic Strains:
- Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM®
- Bifidobacterium lactis Bl-04®
- Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Vegan, Vegetarian, GMO-free, Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Soy-free, Yeast-free
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C; refrigerate for maximum potency
Cost: Check the UK website for pricing
Benefits for Leaky Gut:
The strains in Optibac Every Day Max Probiotics — Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 — have been extensively studied for their ability to support gut health and enhance your body’s natural gut bacteria.
This combination is effective for those dealing with leaky gut, aiding in the reduction of gut permeability and promoting better gut barrier function.
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4. Biotics 8 Men’s Probiotics
CFU: 20 billion
Dosage: Once daily
Probiotics Strains: 10 (including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium longum, and Saccharomyces boulardii)
Form/Type: Capsules
Certifications: Clinically-backed
Storage: No refrigeration needed
Cost: Starts at $64.99 for a 1-month supply
Benefits for Leaky Gut:
Biotics 8 Men’s Probiotics is designed to support overall digestive health and promote a balanced gut microbiome. Containing a blend of 10 specific probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium longum, this formula aims to alleviate symptoms of leaky gut, enhance digestion, and boost immunity. The addition of vitamin D3 and digestive enzymes further amplifies these benefits.
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5. Dr. Jacob’s Iodine & Selenium Probio
CFU: 2.25 billion bacteria per capsule
Dosage: 1-2 capsules daily
Probiotic Strains: Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium lactis
Form/Type: Vegetarian capsules
Certifications: Vegan
Storage: Cool, dry place
Cost: Check retailer websites for pricing
Benefits
Each capsule contains 2.25 billion beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, which help maintain a healthy intestinal environment and enhance digestive function.
Lactobacillus plantarum aids in breaking down polyphenols, making it crucial for intestinal health and particularly beneficial for those with irritable bowel syndrome and leaky gut. Bifidobacterium breve supports the maintenance of a balanced gut microbiome, ensuring the suppression of harmful bacteria and fungi.
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6. DS-01® Daily Synbiotic
CFU: 53.6 Billion AFU
Dosage: One capsule per day
Probiotic Strains/Strains: 24 clinically and scientifically studied strains, including Bifidobacterium longum, Bifidobacterium breve, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus.
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Vegan, non-GMO
Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration needed
Cost: $49.99 per subscription (30-day supply)
Benefits:
The DS-01® Daily Synbiotic is designed with ViaCap® Delivery Technology. This nested capsule system safeguards the probiotics, ensuring they survive the digestive process and make it to your colon alive.
On reaching the intestines, they help support regular bowel movements and ease bloating. Moreover, they reinforces the integrity of the gut barrier, which can help mitigate occasional gastrointestinal discomfort.
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Conclusion
When dealing with a leaky gut, incorporating probiotics can be a helpful step. While these supplements can aid in improving intestinal permeability, they are not a stand-alone solution.
Remember: Addressing a leaky gut requires holistic lifestyle changes. Prioritize fiber-rich and polyphenol-rich foods, reduce added sugars and saturated fats, and stay mindful of managing stress and getting adequate sleep.
Probiotics can be particularly valuable for those with conditions such as IBS, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, and food allergies.
For children and individuals with autoimmune disorders, always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
