9 Best Probiotics for SIBO Treatment (methane, constipation, IBS)
Although there’s an ongoing debate on whether probiotics can cause SIBO or not, there have also been many people who have also used probiotics to alleviate their symptoms (and that actually worked for them).
In this article, I’ll share with you my top 9 favorite probiotics for SIBO, plus some tips on how to choose the best probiotics, especially on strains to look for.
Summary of my top 3 probiotics for SIBO:
- YourBiology Gut+ (Best for SIBO and Overall Wellness) – contains 40 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) and four clinically studied live strains (including three of the recommended strains above) in a blend that’s specially formulated for SIBO and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
- Biotics 8 (Best for SIBO in Men) – 20 billion CFUs and 10 probiotic strains (including eight recommended SIBO strains) that are specially formulated for men
- Pendulum Akkermansia (Best SIBO Probiotic with Unique Ingredient) – 100 million AFUs (active fluorescent units) and one strain of a unique probiotic that makes it different from all the other products on the list
How I Picked the Best Probiotics for SIBO
1. Trusted Brands
In choosing the best probiotics for SIBO, it’s best to pick trusted brands. While they can sometimes be more expensive than the others, at least you’ll have peace of mind that their products are safe.
Often, you can also rely on trusted brands to produce high-quality supplements that can be effective for your condition.
2. Probiotics Strains Types for SIBO
Studies on the effectiveness of probiotics have conflicting results, and there’s also a debate that they can cause SIBO. Yet there’s also strong evidence that they can help alleviate the symptoms of SIBO.
In her blog, Amy Myers MD, a doctor explains that Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains might be the culprits that cause the overgrowth in SIBO. So, these are strains that you need to avoid (if you’re experiencing SIBO symptoms).
Do note that these strains are good for other conditions, but they might be best avoided if you’re dealing with SIBO.
Instead, it’s better to choose soil-based probiotics. Unlike most probiotics that thrive in the small intestines, most soil-based probiotics only get activated when they reach the large intestines, Dr. Myers further explained.
That means that they can’t cause SIBO (overgrowth in the small intestines) yet can help alleviate its symptoms from their new home in the large intestines.
Soil-based probiotic strains that are recommended:
- Bacillus clausii (for modulating immune response and producing chemicals that can help inhibit or kill pathogenic, bad bacteria)
- Bacillus coagulans (a popularly-studied immune stimulator that can help probiotic bacteria successfully thrive in your gut)
- Bacillus subtilis (for supporting gut repair by producing over 12 natural antibiotics and also fermenting Vitamin K to promote growth and repair)
However, note that Dr. Myers’ theory isn’t the absolute guide to SIBO probiotics. No it is NOT!
Because according to my research, the below strains can also be good for SIBO, even if they belong to the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families:
- Lactobacillus reuteri – can prevent intestinal overgrowth by other bacteria, inhibiting proinflammatory cytokine production to maintain a balanced gut environment, according to a 2021 review
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus – one of the probiotics shown in a 2014 study to be effective in alleviating SIBO
- Bifidobacterium – several probiotic strains (Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium bifidum, and Bifidobacterium longum) also showed similar results to Lactobacillus rhamnosus in the above-mentioned study
- Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus casei – they were also shown to be effective in treating chronic diarrhea, particularly related to bacterial overgrowth, in the 2014 study above
- VSL 3 – a high-concentration probiotic preparation made eight live species: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium breve, Streptococcus salivarius subsp. Thermophilus, and Bifidobacterium infantis is shown to be effective in the prevention and treatment of SIBO and other several diarrhea syndromes
- Saccharomyces boulardii – this yeast strain can help decrease hydrogen gas production, helping alleviate diarrhea without causing overgrowth in your small intestines
3. High CFU, Preferably with a Guarantee
You need your probiotics to stay alive and reach your intestines where they can work their magic. That’s why having a high CFU count (colony-forming units) is a good idea.
Some brands even offer a guarantee that their products have the exact amount of CFUs posted on the packaging because they test their supplements after the expiry date.
Now that you know the basics of what to look for in your probiotics, let me share my recommendations to help you choose the one that suits you best.
My 9 Best Probiotics For SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth)
1. YourBiology Gut+ (Best for SIBO and Overall Wellness)
CFU: 40 billion
Dosage: 2 capsules per day; best taken at regular intervals of one during the day and one at night
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 4 strains
- Bifidobacterium lactis
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus paracasei
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: GMP-certified
Storage: Shelf-stable
Cost: $64.99 for 60 capsules (worth one month’s supply)
This brand uses three strains identified in the abovementioned studies as ideal for SIBO.
What’s great about this probiotic is that it can help prevent SIBO and other conditions, including IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) by working where everything begins – in the gut.
Using four of the science-backed, clinically studied bacterial strains, this special formula can work to fix our broken guts, to prevent and deal with symptoms associated with IBS and SIBO.
It’s also good that the brand offers better probiotic survival and absorption by using a special capsule protection technology called MAKtrek marine polysaccharide complex. This patented ingredient is made from brown seaweed that coats and shields the probiotics in a special capsule that can help them survive the harsh journey through your acidic stomach to reach your small intestines.
Since it is designed for release in the small intestines, it helps ensure better probiotic survival.
As a bonus, this also means that the probiotic can help avoid bloating and gas, a common side effect of probiotic use in some people.
Pros
- Four clinically-studied live strains
- Specially formulated to help alleviate SIBO and IBS
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- Zero preservatives
- Helps reduce stress by improving serotonin levels
- Improves digestion
- Boosts your immunity
- Helps boost your focus and energy
- Helps you feel slimmer and lighter
- Offers risk-free 2-month trial, with a money-back guarantee
Cons
- Higher price tag than similar probiotics
- Not as readily available from other shops as other probiotics
Where to Buy
- YourBiology official website: $64.99 (60 capsules, 1 bottle); $129.99 (2+1 bottles); $194.99 (3+2 bottles)
I also love that this brand offers discounts if you buy more – that’s perfect for reaping the most benefits in the probiotics (it comes with regular use). For example, getting 2 bottles gives you 1 bottle free, while buying 3 bottles gives you 2 bottles free. It is available worldwide – U.S.A, U.K, Australia, South Africa, etc
2. Biotics 8 (Best for SIBO in Men)
CFU: 20 billion
Dosage: 3 capsules per day; for best results, take this first thing in the morning
Probiotics Strains: 10 probiotic strains
- Saccharomyces boulardii
- Bifidobacterium longum
- Bifidobacterium bifidum
- Bifidobacterium breve
- Lactobacillus acidophilus
- Lactobacillus casei
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus fermentum
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: GMP-certified (Good Manufacturing Practices)
Storage: Shelf-stable; doesn’t require refrigeration
Cost: $64.99 for 90 capsules (1 month supply); discounts/freebies if you buy more: $129.99 (buy 2 bottles, get one free) or $194.99 (buy 3 bottles, get 2 free)
Amazingly, eight of this brand’s ten probiotic strains are on the list of the best probiotic strains for SIBO.
This makes this brand a good choice if you’re looking for a SIBO probiotic. Plus, not only does it help improve your gut microbiome, but also provides you with more energy, fortifies your immune system, supports your mental well-being, and strengthens your gut-brain axis.
A top choice as a probiotic for men, it boosts testosterone levels, increases muscle growth, and promotes healthy weight through promoting digestion and regular bowel elimination.
Pros
- Contains 10 probiotic strains
- Targeted for men (helps with SIBO while also boosting testosterone levels and promoting gut healthy)
- Soy-free
- Gluten-free
- Risk-free trial (60-day money-back guarantee) – with the promise to provide a refund (with no questions asked!) if you’re not satisfied with the product’s results
Cons
- Formulated for men (not ideal for everyone; best avoided by women)
- Not easily available over the counter (OTC)
- Contains Chicory Root prebiotic fiber, which can trigger IBS symptoms in some people
Where to Buy
- Biotics8 official website: $64.99 (90 capsules, 1 bottle)
The brand also offers freebies or discounts if you buy from their official shop: $129.99 (2+1 bottles) or $194.99 (3+2 bottles).
3. Pendulum Akkermansia (Best SIBO Probiotic with Unique Ingredient)
CFU: 100 million AFU (active fluorescent units)
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains: 1 strain
- Akkermansia muciniphila
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Non-GMO Project Verified
Storage: Shelf-stable; doesn’t require refrigeration but should be stored in a cool, dry place
Cost: $89 for 30 capsules; discount with membership ($49 for 30 capsules)
This brand uses a probiotic that isn’t used by others. Although Akkermansia muciniphila isn’t listed as one of the recommended strains above, it’s backed by the brand’s experts because of its role in maintaining and healing the gut lining.
Plus, it’s a probiotic that can help support a healthy weight, boost your mood and energy, and improve bowel movement. Customers have also reported that it helped decrease their sugar cravings.
So, that means that this probiotic can help curb SIBO symptoms while also helping manage your weight. It’s a win-win situation.
Pros
- Unique probiotic strain
- Simple, no-nonsense formulation
- Certified to be free from GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
Cons
- Pricier than other probiotic products
- Contains chicory inulin which can trigger IBS symptoms in some people
- Limited places to get this online
Where to Buy
- Pendulum official website: $89 (30 capsules); discount with subscription/membership ($49 for 30 capsules)
4. Primal Earth Probiotic (Best Custom-Formulated SIBO Probiotics)
CFU: 3 billion
Dosage: 1 capsule per day
Probiotics Strains: 3 strains
- Bacillus coagulans
- Bacillus clausii
- Bacillus subtilis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Third-party lab tested; GMP Compliant (Good Manufacturing Practices)
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $64.97 for 30 capsules
Although it only contains three strains that amount to 3 billion CFUs, the brand boasts of a “super-strength” SBO probiotic (*SBO means “soil-based organisms”).
Also, these soil-based probiotics are activated in the colon, not the small intestines. So, it means that they aren’t likely to add bacteria to your small intestines (that’s the primary issue of SIBO).
Plus, this brand even offers a 90-day return guarantee! That’s longer than what most brands offer.
Pros
- Wheat-free and gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Dairy-free
- Corn-free
- Egg-free
- Yeast-free
- Also free from artificial sweeteners and GMOs
Cons
- Contains fewer CFUs than the other probiotics on our list
- Not readily available from other stores
Where to Buy
- Amy Myers MD official website: $64.97 (30 capsules)
You can also save with a subscription on the brand’s website because you’ll only be paying $55.22 per bottle.
5. FMF Soil-Based Probiotics (Best Hypoallergenic SIBO Probiotic)
CFU: 4 billion
Dosage: 2 capsules per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 2 strains
- Bacillus coagulans
- Bacillus subtilis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $43.95 for 60 capsules (good for one month’s supply)
This soil-based probiotic helps promote normal gut and immune function and can help alleviate your SIBO symptoms. It contains two of the three soil-based probiotics recommended by Dr. Myers above.
What’s great about this blend is that it helps fight pathogens, the so-called “harmful bugs,” and their toxins to keep your gut healthy.
The brand also boasts of lab-verified and genetically certified Bacillus coagulans and Bacillus subtilis probiotic strains, with a potency that matches the label.
But what I really love is that this is a hypoallergenic blend – so you don’t have to worry about experiencing an allergic reaction while using this product.
Pros
- Value-friendly probiotic
- Wheat-free and gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Free of dairy, milk, or casein
- Egg-free
- Fish-free
- Shellfish-free
- Tree nut-free
- Peanut-free
Cons
- Not readily available from other stores
Where to Buy
- Dr. Ruscio Shop: $43.95 (60 capsules)
6. Privavite SIBO Off (Best SIBO Probiotic with Immunoglobulins)
CFU: 4 billion
Dosage: 3 capsules per day
Probiotics Strains: 3 strains
- Bacillus coagulans
- Bacillus clausii
- Bacillus subtilis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $56 for 90 capsules (good for one month)
I really love that this probiotic was specially designed for SIBO. It contains all three probiotic strains recommended by Dr. Myers, as mentioned above. The blend also contains serum-derived bovine immunoglobulins which can help promote better health of your gut barrier.
This formulation doesn’t contain chicory root inulin which can trigger IBS symptoms in some people.
Pros
- Wheat-free and gluten-free
- Soy-free
- Corn-free
- Dairy-free
- Shellfish-free
- Tree nut-free
- Egg-free
- Fish-free
- Also free from artificial sweeteners, coloring, and preservatives
Cons
- Contains fewer CFUs than the other probiotics on our list
- Not readily available from other stores
Where to Buy
- Privavite official website: $56 (90 capsules, one bottle good for one month)
7. MEGA Sporebiotic (Best SIBO Probiotic for Reconditioning the Gut)
CFU: 4 billion
Dosage: 2 capsules per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 5 strains
- Bacillus coagulans
- Bacillus clausii
- Bacillus indicus
- Bacillus subtilis
- Bacillus licheniformis
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable (with a 2-year shelf life); refrigeration not required
Cost: $52.50 for 60 capsules (on Amazon; good for one month)
This blend is a 100% spore-based, broad-spectrum probiotic supplement that reconditions your gut by promoting microbial diversity, providing strains that can survive the journey through your stomach, and maintaining health-promoting gut bacteria.
Instead of probiotic strains that couldn’t survive digestion, you’re provided with a product that ensures the good bacteria are delivered to your gut.
They achieve that because the spores aren’t activated in a harsh environment. Instead, they awaken and colonize your gut when they detect that the conditions are optimal for them to thrive.
What I love best about this probiotic is that it’s also a powerful antioxidant, which can promote better gut and body health.
It also has a 2-year shelf life even without refrigeration.
Pros
- DNA-verified Bacillus strains
- Spores that survive stomach acids
Cons
- You can’t buy directly from the brand’s website if you don’t have a practitioner account
Where to Buy
- Micro Biome Labs official website: (for practitioner accounts)
8. Ancient Nutrition SBO Probiotic Ultimate (Best SIBO Probiotic with 50 Billion CFU and Prebiotics)
CFU: 50 billion
Dosage: 2 capsules per day; best taken on an empty stomach, either when you wake up or before going to bed
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 4 strains
- Bacillus subtilis
- Bacillus clausii
- Bacillus coagulans
- Saccharomyces boulardii
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Not indicated
Storage: Shelf-stable; no refrigeration required
Cost: $49.95 for 60 capsules (good for one month); save more with a subscription ($42.46 per bottle)
This blend features digestion-specific superfoods, plus prebiotics and postbiotics (enzymes and organic acids created by probiotics) to maximize your probiotics’ effects and benefits in your gut. It also promotes healthy immune system function.
The soil-based Bacillus strains come in spores that are uniquely resilient – that means they can survive the journey through your acidic stomach, only activating in the intestines where they’re needed.
Pros
- Stable soil-based probiotics
- 50 billion CFUs to ensure there are active strains that reach your intestines even if unforeseen circumstances might reduce the number of live probiotics
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Grain-free
- Soy-free
- Nut-free
- Plant-based product (friendly to keto, paleo, vegan, and vegetarian diets)
Cons
- Some people might find the CFU content to be too high
Where to Buy
- Ancient Nutrition official website: $49.95 (60 capsules; one month supply); discount with a subscription on the website ($42.46 per bottle)
9. Codeage SBO Probiotics+ (Best SIBO Probiotic with the Highest CFUs)
CFU: 100 billion
Dosage: 2 capsules per day
Probiotics Strains/Strains: 6 strains
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Bacillus subtilis
- Bacillus clausii
- Bacillus coagulans
- Saccharomyces boulardii
Form/Type: Capsule
Certifications: Third-party tested; manufactured in a cGMP facility in the USA
Storage: Shelf-stable; refrigeration not required
Cost: $39.99 for 90 capsules (supply for 45 days)
This probiotic features a fermented organic botanical blend as a prebiotic that provides nourishment for your good bacteria. It’s like they have a packed lunch to get them going when they arrive in your gut.
Pros
- Budget-friendly probiotics
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Soy-free
- Shellfish-free
- Free from GMOs
- Keto-friendly
- Vegan and vegetarian capsules
Cons
- Some people are skeptical about taking probiotics with this high CFU count, believing it might be too high for regular use
Where to Buy
- Codeage official website: $39.99 (90 capsules; good for 45 days)
You can get a discount for buying two bottles on Amazon (you only pay $65.99 for the 2 bottles) or through a subscription on the brand’s official website (you only pay $33.99, which is 15% off the original price tag).
How to Take Probiotics for Maximum Benefits against SIBO (Tips & Tricks)
The good news about SIBO probiotics is that most of them are spore-forming and soil-based. So, they’re usually not as sensitive as the other probiotics. This means that they can have a higher survival rate, especially when navigating through your acidic stomach.
Still, if you’re taking probiotic supplements, you’d surely want to maximize their benefits.
The first thing to do is read the label for the instructions on how to take your probiotic supplement. It’s always best to follow these recommendations.
If there aren’t any instructions, it’s a good idea to take probiotics on an empty stomach or around 30 minutes before a meal.
Some people might experience side effects, such as nausea and headaches, for the first few days after taking probiotics for the first time.
Still, as long as the side effects aren’t putting you in danger, it’s a good idea to continue taking your probiotics. Often, their benefits outweigh the side effects.
FAQs
Are Probiotics Effective for SIBO? (Research Results)
Aside from the studies already mentioned above, probiotics have been shown to be possibly effective for SIBO.
From my research, a probiotic containing four strains (Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus faecalis, and Bifidobacterium brevis) appeared to be more effective than metronidazol (an antibiotic) in providing better results for patients with SIBO and chronic abdominal distension.
Are Probiotics Safe for SIBO?
Probiotics have long been used safely for SIBO and other conditions. However, take note that probiotics aren’t recognized or approved by the FDA as a form of treatment for any medical condition or symptom.
So, it’s very important to choose trusted brands, follow the instructions on the label, and not exceed the recommended dose. If possible, it’s good to get a go signal from your doctor before taking a probiotic, particularly if you have an underlying medical condition (especially cancer or autoimmune diseases).
Never give a probiotic to babies younger than 2 years old, unless directed by their pediatrician.
Should You Take Probiotics If You Have SIBO?
The answer is yes or no – it really depends on many factors. Most people can experience the good benefits of probiotics by taking products with soil-based strains.
Sometimes, it might take some trial and error before you find the best probiotic.
What to Do If Probiotics Don’t Work for SIBO?
If you’ve tried but the probiotics still don’t work for your SIBO, be sure to consult your doctor. Perhaps the SIBO symptoms you’re experiencing might be signs of a different or underlying condition.
Is Yakult (a probiotic) Good for SIBO?
Studies with probiotics have conflicting results. However, even as far back as in a 2008 study, Yakult has already been shown to be good for SIBO.
The study concluded that Yakult, which contains Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota, can be effective in altering the fermentation patterns in the small intestines, consistent with reducing SIBO.
