The Best Probiotics for C. Diff: Top Choices for Prevention

If you are wondering what C. diff means, it is short for Clostridioides difficile. This is the type of bacteria responsible for causing intestinal infections, such as diarrhea and inflammation of the colon (colitis). These bacteria are one of the most common causes of gastrointestinal healthcare-associated infections in the United States and affects approximately 500,000 patients annually. It often affects people who have been taking antibiotics and usually is treated by healthcare providers with a different type of antibiotic.

Self-treatment of C. difficile infection at home is generally not recommended, as hospitalization may be necessary in some cases. This is because C. diff can lead to more severe complications, such as sepsis. So, instead of considering any self-treatment, it is essential to contact your doctor if you experience any symptoms of a C. diff infection.

However, while probiotics do not treat this issue, they may be a helpful addition in the prevention of C. diff infection and support the overall gut microbiome under a doctor's supervision. In this article, we will review the top 8 probiotic brands of our choosing that you can consider for additional support.

Best probiotic for C. diff: a shortlist

• Best 3-in-1 probiotics to support a balanced gut microbiome: Ritual
• Best 3-in-1 probiotic blend to balance the gut and digestion: Bioma
• Best probiotics to help restore gut microbiome: Biotics 8
• Best probiotics to help maintain healthy gut bacteria: Oweli
• Best vegan probiotics to help support overall gut health: Future Kind
• Best all-in-one probiotic blend to support GI tract: Bulletproof

How we compiled our list of the best probiotics for C. diff

To compile this list, we needed to examine several key factors that indicate the quality and suitability of the product.

CFU count	Strain composition	Ingredient transparency	Compliance	Price
Adequate live bacteria count	Beneficial strains	Clean and clear ingredients	Adheres to government-required regulations	$29.99–$79.99

• CFU count. Probiotics designed to support immunity should contain a sufficient CFU (Colony Forming Units) count, as a higher CFU indicates more live bacteria.
• Strain composition. We examined the variety of probiotic strains included, focusing on those known to be beneficial for gut health.
• Ingredient transparency. We prioritized products that clearly list all ingredients, ensuring users know what they are consuming.
• Brand reputation. We considered the reputation of the brand, looking for companies known for quality and reliability in the probiotic industry.
• Compliance. It is very important for brands to adhere to government regulations and standards for safety and efficacy.
• Price. The pricing of probiotics falls within the range of $29.99 to $79.99 for affordability.

Best probiotic for C. diff prevention: an overview

Discover the eight leading probiotics available, each featuring unique strains and proprietary blends aimed at supporting overall gut health.

These beneficial bacteria, commonly referred to as probiotics, may help balance the gut microbiome and support digestion, contributing to the maintenance of healthy gut flora. Our curated list takes into account different probiotic strains, pricing, and the transparency of each brand.

1. Ritual — 3-in-1 probiotics to support a balanced gut microbiome

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Synbiotic+ is a versatile 3-in-1 supplement made to support a balanced gut microbiome by combining clinically studied prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Each capsule contains 11 billion CFUs* from two scientifically researched probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus LGG® and Bifidobacterium animalis spp. lactis BB-12®, which may help support regularity and potentially reduce occasional bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

In addition to these probiotics, Synbiotic+ includes prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut flora. The postbiotic tributyrin may support gut lining cells and gut barrier function for overall gut health.

Utilizing delayed-release technology, Synbiotic+ ensures that the probiotics reach the colon intact for maximum effectiveness.

Priced at $54 per bottle, Synbiotic+ offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. The supplement is vegan, gluten-free, and free from major allergens and artificial colorants. Each batch is rigorously third-party tested for label accuracy to ensure purity and quality.

*CFU — probiotics are measured in colony forming units (CFU), reflecting the number of live cells.

2. Bioma — 3-in-1 probiotic blend to support the balance of the gut and digestion

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Bioma offers a proprietary blend of probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics designed to work synergistically for optimal gut health. Each serving, consisting of two capsules, delivers 9 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of beneficial bacteria, including various Bifidobacterium strains such as Bifidobacterium lactis, longum, and breve. This combination may help nourish gut bacteria, support the gut lining, and contribute to the reduction of common digestive issues like gas, bloating, and constipation.

Additionally, Bioma includes xylooligosaccharides, a type of dietary fiber that can further support gut flora and promote digestive wellness. The capsules feature an advanced delivery system that protects the active ingredients from stomach acids, ensuring they reach the intestines intact.

Bioma is priced at $63.99 for 30 servings ($2.13 per serving) and is non-GMO, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. However, the website does not provide information on third-party testing for label accuracy or specific manufacturing practices. For optimal results, the brand recommends taking two capsules with water before breakfast.

3. Biotics 8 — best probiotics to help restore gut microbiome for men

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Biotics 8 is a probiotic and prebiotic supplement designed for men to enhance gut health and overall physical performance. Each serving provides 20 billion CFUs from 10 active bacterial strains, combined with digestive enzymes and chicory root fiber to support digestion and nutrient absorption.

According to the brand’s claims, the advanced formula not only fortifies the immune system and supports digestion, but also strengthens the gut-brain axis, contributing to increased energy and better focus. Users have reported benefits such as reduced bloating, more regular bowel movements, and heightened energy levels throughout the day.

Biotics 8 is vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free, and soy-free, manufactured in the U.S. in compliance with GMP standards. While there is no information about third-party testing for label accuracy on the Biotics 8 website, the product is backed by a 100% satisfaction, 60-day money-back guarantee.

Priced at $79.99 with free shipping, Biotics 8 offers a risk-free opportunity to experience the potential benefits of a balanced gut microbiome.

4. Oweli — best probiotics to help maintain healthy gut bacteria

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Oweli Probiotic is a multi-strain formula designed to enhance gut health and overall wellness. Each serving delivers 40 billion CFUs of beneficial bacteria, utilizing MAKtrek® Bi-Pass Technology for effective delivery to the intestinal tract. This advanced probiotic not only supports the maintenance of healthy gut bacteria but also contributes to optimal digestion, potentially supports metabolism, and may strengthen immune response, according to the brand.

In addition to gut health benefits, Oweli Probiotic may contribute to the promotion of skin health and a sense of well-being. Regular use may also help alleviate common issues such as bloating, gas, and constipation.

Manufactured in FDA-registered facilities that comply with current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Oweli Probiotic ensures high quality by prioritizing active ingredients and avoiding fillers or harmful contaminants. According to the brand, the product undergoes thorough laboratory testing before manufacturing.

With a 100-day money-back guarantee, Oweli Probiotic offers confidence in its product. Priced at $49.99 per bottle, it may be a convenient addition to any daily routine for holistic gut support.

5. Future Kind — best vegan probiotics to help support overall gut health

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Future Kind Probiotics is a vegan-friendly supplement designed to help alleviate bloating and support overall gut health. Users appreciate the product for its high concentration of live probiotic cultures and the brand's commitment to veganism, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability.

Each daily serving delivers 30 billion CFUs, featuring the patented DE111® strain of Bacillus subtilis among 9 other probiotic strains. This formulation might not only support digestion but also help fortify the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

Future Kind cruelty-free capsules are third-party tested and manufactured in FDA-registered, cGMP-certified facilities, ensuring quality and safety. They contain no GMOs, wheat, yeast, soy, or artificial preservatives, making them suitable for those pursuing a “clean” lifestyle. With eco-friendly packaging and carbon-neutral shipping, the brand also prioritizes sustainability.

Priced at $29.99, Future Kind probiotics supplement provides a convenient way to support gut health and overall well-being, with results best observed through regular use.

6. Bulletproof — all-in-one probiotic blend to support GI tract

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The Express 3-in-1 Probiotic by Bulletproof is designed to help enhance overall gut health by supporting digestion and potentially alleviating occasional gas and bloating. This supplement combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics for comprehensive gut support.

According to the brand, each serving contains 300 mg of tributyrin, a postbiotic that may offer additional relief from gastrointestinal discomfort while contributing to long-term gut wellness. The bottle holds 90 capsules, delivering 1B CFU each serving with a recommended dosage of three capsules daily.

Bulletproof prioritizes quality, with all ingredients undergoing rigorous standardized quality assurance testing to meet stringent safety standards for heavy metals and toxins. The formulation is based on scientifically studied ingredients to maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract and support beneficial gut flora. Each product is backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee and third-party testing for label accuracy to ensure potency and purity, adhering to FDA regulations.

Available for $47.95, the probiotic includes free shipping on orders over $49 and a subscription option that provides a 20% discount.

Comparing the best probiotics for C. diff

Brand	Price	Amount per serving	Number of servings	CFU/AFU count	Number of strains	Third-party tested	Additional ingredients
Ritual	$54.00	1 capsule	30	11 billion CFU	2	Yes	Yes
Bioma	$63.99	2 capsules	30	9 billion CFU	3	No	Yes
Biotics 8	$79.99	3 capsules	30	20 billion CFU	10	Yes	Yes
Oweli	$44.99	2 capsules	30	40 billion CFU	4	N/A	Yes
Future Kind	$29.99	1 capsule	30	30 billion CFU	10	Yes	No
Bulletproof	$47.95	3 capsules	30	1 billion CFU	1	No	Yes

What is C. diff?

Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) is a gram-positive, spore-forming bacteria that primarily affects the gastrointestinal tract, leading to serious infections.

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) and recurrent CDI might significantly impact patients' quality of life, potentially causing long-lasting physical and even emotional distress. Studies indicate that 35% of CDI patients are more likely to experience recurrence, with the risk more than doubling after two or more infection episodes. Therefore, it is essential to monitor signs and symptoms and maintain regular communication with a healthcare provider.

What are the symptoms?

Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) can appear in different ways. Some people have no symptoms (asymptomatic), while others can have mild to severe symptoms. A recent meta-analysis found that C. difficile contributes to 20% of antibiotic-associated diarrhea cases in hospitalized patients. Most patients with mild to moderate CDI may recover within 3–5 days after starting treatment. CDI may involve symptoms like nausea, vomiting, fever, dehydration, and, in severe cases, even circulatory shock.

Asymptomatic carriage might be experienced when a person has the C. difficile bacteria and its toxins in their body but may not have diarrhea or the specific colon inflammation called pseudomembranous colitis. How doctors treat these cases depends on the patient’s health and circumstances.

Who is at risk?

The primary risk factor for CDI is antibiotic use due to any other previous infections, with 60% of cases occurring in those who used antibiotics in the prior four months. Some studies suggest that antibiotics like ampicillin, amoxicillin, cephalosporins, clindamycin, and fluoroquinolones may disrupt normal gut flora, allowing C. difficile proliferation and toxin production. The risk for CDI and rCDI is higher among individuals who are older, have had recent hospital stays, and weakened immune systems.

Ways to prevent C. diff.

C. difficile bacteria can be found on surfaces at home and on people's skin. To prevent its spread, maintain good personal hygiene and a clean home environment. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing hands with soap and water after using the bathroom and before eating.

Additionally, family and friends should follow the same hand-washing guidelines. Use separate bathrooms if possible, or regularly clean shared surfaces like toilet flushers, doorknobs, and electronics. If someone has a C. difficile infection, CDC suggests using chlorine bleach on laundry, wearing gloves, and washing hands after handling laundry.

How can probiotics help with C. difficile?

Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain foods and supplements that can be beneficial for your health, especially for your gut. They help maintain the gut barrier, support the immune system, and compete with harmful bacteria for nutrients. Common types of probiotics include Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Saccharomyces.

Research suggests that probiotics may help prevent infections like C. difficile (CDI) by colonizing the gut, which may stop harmful bacteria from taking hold. Some probiotics might counteract toxins from C. difficile, potentially reducing inflammation and the risk of infection.

A review found that specific probiotics, like Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus casei, may help prevent CDI, but they don’t seem to stop recurring infections. Other studies indicate that Lactobacillus strains may help prevent diarrhea related to C. difficile and antibiotics use.

Lastly, a study looked at whether Saccharomyces boulardii could help prevent C. difficile infections in hospitalized patients who were given antibiotics commonly associated with these infections. The findings suggested that taking S. boulardii was linked to a lower risk of developing hospital-onset C. difficile infections in these patients.

Potential risks and considerations of using probiotics

Probiotics, like other supplements or therapies, may carry potential side effects. The most common include gastrointestinal upset. It is always necessary to consult with a healthcare provider prior to introducing probiotics to your daily routine, especially if you have an existing health condition or a weakened immune system.

There are various types of probiotics, each potentially having different impacts on the body, and it is not well understood which types are most effective for specific conditions. A certain probiotic strain might help alleviate one issue, but that doesn't guarantee it will address other problems or that different probiotic strains will be equally effective.

Additionally, there's little evidence to support most of the health claims made about probiotics, such as that they can, for example, prevent CDI. Some authors of several systematic reviews suggest that current evidence on probiotics' ability to prevent CDI is inconclusive or unreliable due to several factors, such as inconsistencies in the dosages of probiotics used and the timing of their administration.

One systematic review with meta-analysis on specific probiotic use for the primary and recurrent prevention of CDI found that S. boulardii (non-pathogenic yeast that is commonly used as a probiotic) has no benefit for preventing CDI or its recurrence in patients taking a broader category of drugs that include antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and more.

Therefore, more scientific evidence is needed to fully support probiotics' abilities to prevent C. difficile-associated infections.

Additional tips to strengthen the gut against C.diff

Diet can play a big part in maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Therefore, we have several tips for you to see how you can sustain a healthy gut besides the use of probiotics.

Limit ultra-processed and sugary foods

Eating a lot of sugary foods may cause harmful bacteria growth in your gut. Studies on animals and scientific theories suggest that a high sugar intake can change the balance of bacteria in your gut, specifically by increasing Proteobacteria and decreasing Bacteroidetes. This imbalance can weaken your gut's barrier, affecting the health of the small intestine lining. Additionally, such changes can reduce your immune system's ability to regulate itself and increase the potential risk of inflammation in your body.

Increase in dietary fiber intake

Dietary fiber is a type of non-digestible carbohydrate found in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes. It is fermented by gut bacteria and is often referred to as a prebiotic because it promotes the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria. Literature review suggests that dietary fiber can increase the levels of specific beneficial bacteria in the gut, such as Bifidobacterium, Faecalibacterium, Ruminococcus, and Lactobacillus.

Increase in intake of fermented foods

Researchers have found that eating fermented foods may potentially alter the gut microbiome by increasing the diversity of beneficial gut bacteria. People who regularly consume these foods tend to have more beneficial bacteria in their gut like Lactobacillus acidophilus, Levilactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, Lentilactobacillus parabuchneri, Lactobacillus helveticus, and Latilactobacillus sakei.

Other health benefits of probiotic supplements

If you are considering including probiotics into your daily routine here are some additional benefits that probiotics can potentially provide.

• Help recover gut microbiome balance after bacterial or yeast infections. Taking probiotics is believed to help balance the gut microbiome or support how your body handles its natural gut flora, potentially helping the gut to recover after a bacterial or yeast infection.
• Help with metabolism. The composition and good functionality of the gut microbiome may help positively impact metabolism.
• Help with gastrointestinal problems. Probiotics may help with some health issues, including gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation and more.
• Help with inflammation and immune response. Probiotics may possess anti-inflammatory effects and assist in supporting the immune system’s health, this way contributing to the decrease of systemic inflammation.

Best probiotics for C. diff — conclusion

In summary, Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection presents serious health risks, especially with recurrent cases affecting a significant number of hospitalized patients.

While probiotics might be beneficial for overall gut health and have shown some promise in preventing C. difficile infections by maintaining gut balance, they are by no means used to treat C. difficile infections.

Lastly, their effectiveness varies, and further research is needed to fully establish their role in managing this complex condition.