Best Probiotics/Strains

There is no perfect probiotic. None of them can be definitively recommended for IBS. However, there are certain probiotics/strains that have been clinically researched. Before we get into the different types there are a few important things to consider being you take your probiotic:

It is essential that the bacteria in the probiotic is alive. Sometimes it can be hard to find out on the packaging. My general rule is, if it’s not mentioned, then it probably isn’t!
As discussed above, the good bacteria will not stay in your gut for long. If probiotics help in reducing your symptoms, you must continue taking it otherwise you will be back at square one
Write down symptoms for at least two weeks before taking a probiotic and do this again at the end of 4-5 weeks. It’s easy to forget how bad the symptoms were beforehand, so it helps to have a reminder for comparison.

It must be mentioned that some of the research on this page was collated by Professor John Hunter in his book ‘Irritable Bowel Solutions’. It’s a fantastic book for anyone starting out their IBS journey and we cannot recommend it enough.

Best probiotics/strains for IBS-D

Not sure which type you are? Check out of Types of IBS page.

Saccharomyces boulardii has over 50 years of studies and research supporting its use. A 2021 review of 42 different clinical studies confirmed that it was one of the best strains in reducing abdominal pain and frequency of bowel movements, making it suitable for IBS-D.

One study using multi-strain ‘Bio-Kult’ 14-strain probiotic‘ was effective in improving abdominal pain and stool frequency in patients with IBS-D over a 16 week period. No serious side effects were reported and patients experienced a significant improvement in quality of life.

Bio-Kult's Advanced Probiotic contains multiple strains which have been shown to improve IBS symptoms in recent studies
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Best probiotics/strains for IBS-C

The probiotic strain Bifidobacterium lactis BB-12 has been shown to support regular bowel movements, making them easier to pass. In a clinical trial involving 1000 women who were given this strain along with prebiotics, the results were promising. Those who took the BB-12 strain experienced relief from constipation and achieved normal bowel movements, in contrast to the group that received a placebo.
If you’re looking for a probiotic with strains of Bifidobacterium lactis, Nutravita’s Super Strength probiotic is highly rated.

Species and strains of Lactobacillus may alleviate constipation but the results of 42 trials reporting positive results were inconsistent. However, it might work for you.

Nutravita's Super Strength Probiotic contains Bifidobacterium lactis, a key strain for relieving constipation

Best probiotics/strains for IBS-M

IBS-M is tricky as it’s a mix between IBS-D and IBS-C, thus difficult to know which symptom to target. As a result, an all-round multi-strain probiotic is best. Bio-Kult’s Advanced Everyday Multi-Strain Formulation contains 14 different strains and is recommended for all types of IBS.

Researchers have conducted trials on two specific strains, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, targeting individuals with IBS. These strains have shown promising results in regulating bowel movements and providing relief from symptoms such as bloating, abdominal distention, and abdominal cramps.

In a notable clinical trial published in the journal ‘Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics’, the administration of Bifidobacterium bifidum MIMBb75 once daily demonstrated significant improvements in overall IBS symptoms. This included a reduction in abdominal pain, alleviation of bloating, and a decrease in fecal urgency.

How long until I see an improvement?

The time it takes for probiotics to have an effect on IBS symptoms can vary from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements within a few days, while for others, it may take several weeks or even longer to experience noticeable changes. As stated above, it’s important to take a note of your symptoms 2 weeks before probiotics and then compare them to 4-5 weeks after. This will give you the best idea if probiotics are working for you. Just because one brand/strain doesn’t work, doesn’t mean you should give up. There might be a probiotic out there that works for you.

As always, please check-in with a healthcare professional before taking probiotics. The information on this page is purely that: information. It does not equal advice from a proper healthcare pro!