A healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract can improve mood, boost energy levels, and help the body absorb nutrients. But with my busy lifestyle and often less-than-ideal diet, I wasn’t getting the digestive support I needed from food sources alone.
In my quest for better digestive health, I found myself investigating these gut health supplements. I was skeptical at first, but adding them to my daily routine has really been a game-changer. I tried a few different brands and formulas, experimenting to find the perfect fit for my needs, and now I’m going to pass my wisdom on to you.
In this post, I’ll review some of the top choices available. From probiotic supplements to digestive enzymes, these products can help you achieve and maintain a healthy gut. Oh, and did I mention they all come with pretty hefty discounts when you subscribe for regular deliveries?
So, let’s jump right in.
Summary of the Best Gut Health Supplements
- Best Overall: Pendulum GLP-1 Probiotic
- Most Comprehensive: Utzy Naturals TriBerine
- Best for Immune Support: Organixx ProBiotixx+
- Best Energy Support: ProHealth Mitochondria Ignite™ with NT Factor®
- Best for Constipation Relief: Colon Broom
Is Supplementation Safe?
Dietary supplements can be a safe part of your health regimen if you pick top-notch products, stick to recommended doses, and check for possible drug interactions.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t regulate supplements to the extent that it does the food you eat or meds your doctor gives you (although the FDA does have standards for supplements sold in the U.S.). So, shop wisely and choose trusted brands that follow good manufacturing practices. It’s also a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement to make sure it’s safe for you.
Best Gut Health Supplements
1. Best Overall: Pendulum Metabolic Daily
What we love:
If you’re looking to boost your metabolism, this is the gut health supplement for you. Metabolic Daily from Pendulum is a multi-strain live probiotic that’s specifically made to jumpstart your metabolism. It’s formulated by doctors and scientists from some of the top medical institutions to replenish your gut and help with weight maintenance.
Pros:
- Made with five different strains
- Formulated by doctors and scientists from Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Berkeley, and Stanford
- HSA and FSA eligible
Cons:
- Requires consistent use for best results
Specs:
- Size: 30 capsules per bottle
- Key ingredient(s): Probiotic blend of Akkermansia muciniphila, Clostridium beijerinckii, Clostridium butyricum, Bifidobacterium infantis
Learn more about Pendulum Metabolic Daily today!
2. Most Comprehensive: Utzy Naturals TriBerine
What we love:
Utzy Naturals TriBerine is formulated to keep blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check while boosting metabolic and cardiovascular health. Drawing on the wisdom of Ayurvedic and Chinese herbal traditions, this product combines purified berberine from Indian barberry with extracts from berberine-rich plants. This potent blend may help promote a healthy gut microbiome, support weight management, and maintain healthy blood sugar levels, making it a great pick for anyone looking for comprehensive benefits. Make a one-time purchase or save 15% with regular deliveries every 30, 45, or 60 days.
Pros:
- Supports healthy blood sugar levels
- Regulates cholesterol levels
- Aids in weight management
Cons:
- Two-capsule serving
Specs:
- Size: 60 capsules per bottle
- Key ingredient(s): Berberine, coptis root, Oregon grape root
Learn more about Utzy Naturals TriBerine today!
3. Best for Immune Support: Organixx ProBiotixx+
What we love:
Organixx ProBiotixx+ is formulated to keep your tummy happy and relieve unpleasant digestive symptoms like abdominal pain. This powerful probiotic supplement features a "super strain" of Lactobacillus plantarum, known for multiplying rapidly and improving gut health. With 2.5 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) in each capsule, this probiotic helps control the growth of harmful bacteria, viruses, and yeasts in the gut for less bloating, stronger immune defenses, and improved mood. Save 15% and get free shipping with recurring deliveries every 30, 60, or 90 days.
Pros:
- Shelf-stable; no refrigeration needed
- Third-party lab-tested
- Enhances immune function and mood
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those sensitive to specific probiotics
Specs:
- Size: 60 capsules per bottle
- Key ingredient(s): Lactobacillus plantarum
Learn more about Organixx ProBiotixx+ today!
4. Best Energy Support: ProHealth Mitochondria Ignite™ with NT Factor®
What we love:
ProHealth Mitochondria Ignite™ with NT Factor® is a game-changer for anyone looking to boost energy levels. This supplement features a proprietary blend called NT Factor®, which includes phosphoglycolipids that repair mitochondrial membranes, improving the mitochondria's ability to produce energy. It supports gut health with good bacteria like Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus, and antioxidants help fight free radicals and reduce fatigue. Save 10% on your orders when you sign up for deliveries every 15, 30, 45, or 60 days.
Pros:
- Boosts energy by supporting mitochondrial function
- Fights free radicals, reducing cellular damage
- Enhances gut health with probiotic bacteria
Cons:
- Lower subscription discount than other products
Specs:
- Size: 90 tablets per bottle
- Key Ingredient(s): NT Factor® proprietary blend (phosphoglycolipids, alpha-lipoic acid, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and creatine monohydrate)
Learn more about ProHealth Mitochondria Ignite™ with NT Factor® today!
5. Best for Constipation Relief: Colon Broom
What we love:
Colon Broom can help improve constipation and promote regular bowel movements. By harnessing the powerful benefits of Psyllium husk, a dietary fiber known for absorbing water and easing digestive issues, this product helps improve gut health and supports balanced gut microbiota. It aids in detoxifying the body, enhancing its natural elimination processes, and assists in weight management by making you feel full.
Pros:
- Promotes bowel regularity
- Supports a well-balanced gut microbiota
- Aids in weight management
Cons:
- Buyers take a short quiz before purchasing
Specs:
- Size: 60 servings per container
- Key Ingredient(s): Psyllium husk
Learn more about Colon Broom today!
How To Find the Best Gut Health Supplements for You
Choosing the right gut health supplement can be a game-changer. Since everyone’s needs vary, it's important to think about the following factors while shopping to make sure you find a product that’s just right for you:
Price
Gut supplement prices range from super cheap to pretty pricey, depending on ingredients, brand, and quality. Decide how much you’re willing to spend before buying. It’s tempting to pick the cheapest option but remember that high-quality ingredients often come at a higher price.
Feedback and Reviews
Check out comments and ratings from registered dietitians, doctors, and past buyers to get a good idea of a product’s effectiveness. Look for reviews that mention improvements in digestive health, bloating reduction, and enhanced energy levels. Choose a product with mostly positive feedback.
Ingredients
A gut supplement is only as good as its ingredients. Look for products with a variety of beneficial gut bacteria strains, like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics, from only high-quality sources. Probiotics can help treat small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and other gastro woes.
Aim for products with digestive enzymes to help break down food better and boost nutrient absorption. Also, look for prebiotics, which help promote the growth of good gut bacteria. Steer clear of unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, and preservatives.
Brand Reputation
Go for a well-known brand that produces top-notch supplements. Research its background, ingredient sourcing, and manufacturing practices. Stick to vendors who will show you proof of third-party lab testing for quality and safety. Brands that are open about their formulations and the science behind their products are usually trustworthy.
Your Needs
Think about your health needs and choose a product that meets them. If you struggle with bloating and gas, look for products designed to tackle these symptoms. If you want to boost your immune system, taking probiotics can enhance immune function.
Tailoring your choice to your needs will ensure you get the most out of your supplement. If you’re having trouble choosing, a registered dietitian may be able to recommend some suitable options.
Quality and Potency
High-quality products list the CFU count, telling you the number of live bacteria per serving. More CFUs usually mean a stronger product.
Check to see if your supplement contains probiotic strains researched in peer-reviewed studies. Also, check the product’s lab results to confirm its potency and safety. Good packaging, like dark glass bottles or blister packs, can also help maintain the potency and effectiveness of probiotics and other ingredients.
Ingredients Good for Gut Health
Maintaining overall gut health can affect everything from soaking up nutrients to immune system function. According to clinical nutrition experts, certain ingredients can significantly support a healthy GI tract. These ingredients help keep your gastrointestinal tract in check, boost the production of good stuff like short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and ensure a thriving gut microbiome.
These ingredients are found naturally in some plant foods and other food sources, and they’re also available in supplement form. Let’s take a closer look at what they are and where to find them.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that play a big role in gut health. They help maintain a balanced gut microbiome by boosting the population of good bacteria, which can improve digestion and reduce bloating, gas, and lactose intolerance symptoms.
Common probiotic strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, are often found in foods like Greek yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. Many nutrition experts recommend probiotics because they support the digestive tract, helping the body break down food and absorb nutrients.
If you need more probiotics than what you’re getting from foods, taking probiotics in supplement form can be helpful.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for the good bacteria in your gut. They keep the bacteria happy and strong. Common prebiotics include inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), and galactooligosaccharides (GOS), which can be found in foods like garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, and bananas.
By including prebiotics in your diet, you can support gut health by ensuring that the good bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract have the nutrients they need to thrive.
Prebiotics and probiotics work together to promote a healthier gut environment. They’re also both linked with the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
Digestive Enzymes
Enzymes play a huge role in breaking down food into smaller, absorbable nutrients. These enzymes, such as amylase, protease, and lipase, help ease the burden on your digestive system, preventing issues like indigestion and nutrient malabsorption.
These enzymes can be helpful for individuals with enzyme deficiencies or those who often experience digestive discomfort. By improving the efficiency of the digestive process, they support overall gut health and help maintain a balanced digestive tract.
SCFAs
Short-chain fatty acids, including acetate, propionate, and butyrate, are produced when the beneficial bacteria in your gut ferment dietary fibers. SCFAs help maintain gut health by energizing colon lining cells, calming inflammation, and strengthening the gut wall.
Foods rich in dietary fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, promote SCFA production, supporting a healthy digestive tract and overall gut health.
Fiber
Dietary fiber promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber, which is found in oats, beans, and apples slows digestion and helps keep blood sugar levels in check. Insoluble fiber—found in whole grains, nuts, and vegetables—adds bulk to stool and helps it smoothly pass through the gastrointestinal tract.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is found in plant foods like broccoli, bell peppers, citrus fruits, and kale. Studies show that this nutrient, along with vitamin E and beta-carotene, can help support a healthy digestive system and improve immune function.
Vitamin D
Early research suggests that vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis. Vitamin D can be found in foods like fatty fish, mushrooms, milk, cheese, and egg yolks.
Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are packed with probiotics and have been used for centuries to support digestive health. These foods—like kimchi, miso, tempeh, and pickles—are loaded with live, good bacteria that enhance the gut microbiome.
Eating fermented foods regularly can help keep your gut bacteria in check, improve digestion, and boost overall health by making nutrients easier to absorb.
Potential Benefits of Taking Gut Health Supplements
An unhealthy gut can have many negative effects on overall well-being. Supplementation is an easy way to get the nutrients your digestive tract needs to thrive. Here are some of the benefits you may notice while taking a gut supplement.
Better Digestion
These products often contain enzymes and probiotics that help break down food better. This helps relieve tummy issues such as bloating, gas, and indigestion by promoting smoother digestion and better bioavailability.
Boosted Immune Function
A big part of the immune system is in the gut. By supporting your gut microbiome with probiotics and other beneficial ingredients, supplementation can boost your immune response and lower your chances of getting sick by supporting your gut microbiome with probiotics and other beneficial ingredients.
Better Nutrient Absorption
These products contain digestive enzymes and probiotics that help break down food so your body can absorb nutrients better. This could boost energy, improve skin, and enhance overall vitality.
Less Inflammation
Many ingredients in these products have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling in the gastrointestinal tract. This can help ease irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms and symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which causes swelling and ulcers in the intestinal lining and rectum.
Weight Management
Supplementing with probiotics and fiber can help control hunger and make you feel full, helping you maintain a healthy weight by preventing overeating and supporting your metabolism.
Enhanced Mood and Cognition
The gut-brain axis links the digestive system and the brain. Good gut health can boost your mood and mental health. Supplementation can ease anxiety, brighten your mood, and enhance overall brain function by supporting the gut microbiome.
Potential Side Effects of Taking Gut Health Supplements
While supplementation can have many beneficial effects, it's important to know about the possible side effects some may experience.
- Digestive discomfort: Users may experience bloating, gas, or diarrhea as their body adjusts to new probiotics or digestive enzymes. If this happens, try taking your supplement on an empty stomach.
- Allergic reactions: Some ingredients in these products might make you feel itchy, get a rash, or swell up if you’re allergic to them.
- Interactions with medications: Certain supplements may interact with prescription medications, making them less effective or causing unwanted effects.
- Infection: In rare cases, people with weakened immune systems might develop an infection from probiotic bacteria. If you have health issues, check with your doctor before supplementing.
FAQ
How many digestive supplements should I take?
Start with one gut health supplement and see how your body reacts. Remember to stick to the dosage recommendations on the product label.
Can I take digestive supplements with other medication?
Talk to your healthcare provider before combining new supplements with other medications, as some products might clash with your medications and lead to unwanted side effects.
Can I take gut health supplements in place of other medications?
These products can be super helpful, but they’re not meant to replace medications prescribed by your healthcare provider. Don’t stop taking your medications unless a board-certified gastroenterologist or your primary healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
Conclusion
An unhealthy gut can be bad for your overall health and increase your risk of heart disease and other health conditions. Luckily, lifestyle changes like eating nutrient-rich foods and supplementing with probiotics can improve health.
When picking a gut supplement, aim for high-quality products from trustworthy vendors. Not only do the options above check all of these boxes, but you can save on regular deliveries of them when you subscribe.
