Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms that support overall health and well-being. They address the unique needs of different individuals, but some brands are specifically tailored to men. Probiotics offer numerous advantages for men's gut health as well as improved digestion, immune, and mental benefits. Understanding the value of probiotics for men can guide individuals toward optimal gut health and overall wellness.
What is the best probiotic for men? After conducting extensive research, we now provide the 2023 list of the selected probiotics for men’s gut health.
Best probiotics for men: shortlist
- Biotics 8 — best men’s probiotic for digestive support
- YourBiology — best personalized probiotic for men
- Ritual — best overall probiotic for men
- Pure Essence Labs — best probiotic for men’s immune health
- Ora — best men’s probiotic for a healthy microbiome
- BestFactor — best probiotic for men’s wellness
- A Quality Life — best probiotic for men’s prostate health
- Oweli — best men’s probiotic for optimized gut health
How we compiled our list of the best probiotic supplements for men?
We considered several factors when choosing the best probiotic for men. Below are the criteria we used to compile our list:
| Safety | Quality testing |
| Reputation | Proven track record |
| Effectiveness | Evidence-based |
| CFU | Adequate amounts |
| Quality | GMP, third-party testing |
- Safety. Choosing safe products is paramount; therefore, we opted for probiotic brands that have undergone rigorous testing and quality control measures, ensuring they are safe for consumption and free from harmful additives, allergens, and contaminants.
- Reputation. We looked for well-established brands with a proven track record of producing high-quality supplements. Customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the satisfaction and experiences of other users.
- Effectiveness. Picking a well-designed formula is another crucial criterion. We have analyzed products with scientifically-studied ingredients that support men's gut health — including evidence-based claims, clinical trials, or research studies substantiating their efficacy.
- CFU. Colony Forming Units (CFU) refer to the number of viable bacteria in each probiotic dose. Higher CFU counts indicate a higher concentration of beneficial bacteria, which can significantly impact gut health. We considered probiotics with an adequate CFU count, usually in the billions, to ensure potency and effectiveness.
- Quality. It is essential to ensure that probiotics are formulated in adherence to the highest quality standards. We looked at probiotics manufactured using Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and undergoing third-party testing to ensure purity, potency, and accurate labeling.
Best probiotics for men in 2023: an overview
When compiling this list, we reviewed brands and probiotic supplements that target the different needs of men’s gut health.
Finding a product that suits specific individual needs is essential to ensure you receive a positive effect. While most probiotic supplements are similar at their core, they still have some unique elements that make them different from one another. This is important to consider when trying to achieve specific health goals.
Each product is labeled under a specific category highlighting its unique benefits, ingredients, and other features. The list also includes the pros and cons of each product.
1. Biotics 8 — best men’s probiotic for digestive support
Biotics 8 is a men's probiotic supplement that contains prebiotics and probiotics to enhance gut microbiome health. According to the provider’s website, the supplement may support healthy testosterone levels and the immune system, improves digestion, and strengthens the gut-brain axis. It may also support weight loss by curbing appetite and breaking down food more effectively.
It contains 10 live probiotic strains delivering 20 billion CFUs, including vitamin D and digestive enzymes.
The Biotics 8 probiotic supplement is produced in compliance with GMP and is manufactured in the United States, ensuring it meets the stringent regulations set by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
A one-month supply of the supplements costs $64.99, a three-month supply (with one month free) costs $129.99, and a five-month supply (with two months free) costs $194.99.
2. YourBiology — best personalized probiotic for men
YourBiology offers a specialized probiotic supplement tailored to individual needs. It contains a blend of 4 good bacteria strains that may have potential benefits for men’s gut health.
The brand provides personalized probiotic formulations based on comprehensive gut microbiome testing. By analyzing the gut microbiota composition, YourBiology delivers a probiotic blend specifically designed to address the unique microbial imbalances of each individual. This personalized approach enhances the supplement's effectiveness, but the customized formulation process may involve additional time and cost compared to off-the-shelf probiotics.
The YourBiology probiotic supplement is GMP-certified and made in the USA, which indicates that it adheres to the regulations enforced by the Food & Drug Administration (FDA).
A one-month supply of YourBiology supplements costs $64.99, a three-month supply (with one month free) for $129.99, and a five-month supply (with two months free) for $194.99.
3. Ritual — best overall probiotic for men
Ritual is known for its Synbiotic+ supplement, which combines prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in one product. This unique formulation supports gut health and promotes overall well-being. A notable aspect is the delayed-release capsule of the supplement, providing protection from an acidic environment. The capsule dissolves in the small intestine rather than the stomach. This feature allows flexibility in consumption without the need for pairing with meals.
The Ritual Synbiotic+ probiotic supplement is third-party tested, non-GMO, and uses an innovative Made Traceable® feature, which means the company provides transparency on what you’re putting into your body, where it comes from, and why.
The benefits of Ritual Synbiotic+ may include:
- Improved digestion
- Relief from bloating and gas
- Combined formula
The cost for a one-month supply is $54. The product is sold on a subscription basis, with free shipping.
4. Pure Essence Labs — best probiotic for men’s immune health
Pure Essence Labs is a health product provider which offers probiotic supplements, including PureBiotics™ Maxima. It is a high-potency supplement designed to replenish the gut with essential probiotics, especially for individuals lacking beneficial gut bacteria, which may be linked to a weakened immune system.
According to the provider, each capsule delivers at least 100 billion probiotic cultures from 15 different strains. The supplement utilizes delayed-release, vegan capsules to protect the probiotics from stomach acids, ensuring optimal gut delivery.
Pure Essence emphasizes its commitment to purity, with each batch triple tested for identity, heavy metals, and toxins, ensuring full compliance with stringent regulations.
The cost for a one-month supply (30 capsules) is $74.60. The product is sold as a one-time purchase or on a subscription basis with a 20% discount.
5. Ora — best men’s probiotic for a healthy microbiome
Ora is a probiotic supplement provider containing high-quality strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium that promote gut health. Ora's Probiotic + Prebiotic Daily Essential supplement with multi-strain formulas, including saccharomyces boulardii — supports a diverse microbiome. Ora uses advanced technology for enhanced shelf stability and targeted delivery, ensuring the probiotics remain live and reach the intestines intact.
While individual responses may vary, Ora's commitment to quality and convenience allows the brand to stand out. However, it's important to consider potential allergic reactions and varied responses.
Ora offers products that are non-GMO and third-party tested by independent laboratories.
The product is sold as a one-time purchase for $36.99 or on a subscription basis with a 20% discount.
6. BestFactor — best men’s probiotic for men’s wellness
BestFactor Plus Next Gen is a high-quality supplement with a potent blend of live beneficial bacteria and yeast, including popular strains like lactobacillus and bifidobacterium. According to the provider, the supplement may provide an array of benefits related to men’s wellness:
- Mental clarity and reduced fatigue
- Allergy relief
- Healthy joint support
- Improved sleep and faster recovery
Additionally, the specific strains of good bacteria found in Best Factor probiotics may contribute to better digestion, preventing the overgrowth of bad bacteria and facilitating the absorption of essential nutrients.
Bestfactor’s probiotic supplements are made in USA facilities registered and inspected by the FDA in accordance with the standards of GMP.
A one-month supply of Best Factor supplements costs $39.71 and is sold as a one-time purchase.
7. A Quality Life — best men’s probiotic for increased energy
A Quality Life is a supplement brand providing a variety of top-quality probiotic products that contain a powerful combination of live beneficial bacteria and yeast, which include probiotic strains such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.
According to the provider, the probiotic supplements contain an array of benefits. Restoring the balance of bacteria in the gut may improve digestion and support the immune system leading to increased energy levels.
The products are produced in FDA-registered and GMP-certified facilities in the USA, ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.
With a focus on natural, food-based ingredients, A Quality Life probiotic supplements are a reliable choice for those seeking to maintain a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
The product is sold as a one-time purchase for $39.95 or on a subscription basis with a 15% discount.
8. Oweli — best men’s probiotic for optimized gut health
Oweli is a prominent provider of probiotic supplements that stands out for its carefully crafted formulation and commitment to holistic wellness.
The brand offers full-spectrum probiotic supplements to support gut wellness, immune function, and overall health. It contains 40 billion CFUs delivered using MAKtrek® Bi-Pass Technology for better efficiency.
According to Oweli, the supplement maintains healthy gut bacteria, promotes better digestive health, supports metabolism and weight management, optimizes natural immune response, and supports skin health. It also contains strains from the lactobacillus family and bifidobacterium, known for their health benefits.
Oweli Probiotic is manufactured in FDA-registered facilities and is GMP-compliant.
The cost for a one-month supply of Oweli Probiotic supplement is as low as $29.99 per bottle.
Comparison of the best probiotics for men
| Provider | Cost (per month) | Daily dose | Probiotic strains | CFU count | Quality testing | Pricing model | Review |
| Biotics 8 | $64.99 | 3 capsules | 10 | 20 billion | Yes | One-time purchase | Biotics 8 review |
| YourBiology | $64.99 | 2 capsules | 4 | 40 billion | Yes | One-time purchase | YourBiology review |
| Ritual | $54.00 | 1 capsule | 2 | 11 billion | Yes | Subscription | Ritual review |
| Pure Essence Labs | $74.60 | 1 capsule | 15 | 100 billion | Yes | One-time purchase, subscription | Pure Essence Labs review |
| Ora | $36.99 | 1 capsule | 6 | 16 billion | Yes | One-time purchase, subscription | Ora review |
| BestFactor | $39.99 | 1 capsule | N/A | 100 billion | Yes | One-time purchase | BestFactor review |
| A Quality Life | $39.95 | 2 capsules | 4 | 40 billion | Yes | One-time purchase, subscription | N/A |
| Oweli | $29.99 | 1–2 capsules | 3 | 40 billion | Yes | One-time purchase | N/A |
Choosing the best men’s probiotic for you
When it comes to choosing the right probiotic supplements, it is important to consider several key factors. There are many available products in the market, and picking the most suitable for you is essential. Here are the following criteria:
- Safety. Look for products with live and active bacterial cultures backed by third-party testing and certification to ensure reliability.
- Pricing. Compare prices and consider the value for money based on doses or capsules per package. Beware of low-priced options.
- Ingredients. Check labels for the strains of the probiotic supplement. Select strains aligned with your health needs. Look for additional beneficial ingredients and avoid allergens.
Probiotic benefits for men
Probiotics are linked to multiple benefits for men by replenishing good bacteria in the gut. This includes improved digestive health, strengthened immune system, prostate health, and testosterone levels support.
It is important to note that the benefits of probiotics may vary among individuals.
Healthy testosterone levels
The range of healthy testosterone levels can vary depending on the criteria used by healthcare providers or laboratories. Testosterone production tends to decline with age, and levels can be influenced by medications, health conditions, and other individual factors. This can impact men's overall well-being, and in such cases, the best supplements for men might prove to be valuable allies.
It's worth mentioning that testosterone levels fluctuate throughout the day, with higher levels typically observed in the morning.
Animal studies indicate that the consumption of probiotics can sustain healthy testosterone levels when faced with aging.
If testosterone levels are on the lower end and causing symptoms, healthcare providers may consider appropriate treatment options, such as testosterone replacement therapy.
Immune system
Probiotics can impact immune health by optimizing the gut microbiome, interacting with immune cells, and reducing gut permeability.
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in immune function. More than half of the cells that produce antibodies, essential for fighting illnesses, are located in the gut organs. Having a healthy gut flora, with a balance of beneficial bacteria, can support immune health and potentially reduce the risk of getting sick. Additionally, probiotics may help reduce the risk and duration of respiratory infections.
Individual responses to probiotics may vary, so consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
Improved digestive health
Probiotics improve men's digestive health by supporting a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. These beneficial microorganisms, found in fermented foods or supplements, help restore the natural equilibrium of the gut microbiome. By replenishing the gut with good bacteria, probiotics aid digestion, promote nutrient absorption, and alleviate digestive issues such as constipation, colic, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Probiotics can also reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and help with other forms of diarrhea.
Prostate health
Probiotics can help men with prostate issues such as acute and chronic prostatitis. These issues cause an inflamed prostate, typically triggered by bacterial factors. Probiotics can aid in promoting prostate health by strengthening the immune system and lowering the chances of developing prostatitis.
Certain studies indicate that probiotics can lead to noticeable relief in symptoms associated with chronic prostatitis. When combined with antibiotics, probiotics can also help prevent the advancement of prostatitis and its related complications.
What kind of probiotics should a man take?
When it comes to choosing probiotics for men, it is important to look for well-studied ones like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus, and Saccharomyces.
Additionally, it is recommended to choose probiotics with a high number of colony-forming units (CFUs) per dose, as higher CFUs can ensure that probiotics survive the acidic stomach environment.
It is also advisable to avoid unnecessary ingredients and opt for probiotics without binders, fillers, or potential allergens. Checking the manufacturing date, selecting dairy-free options, and consulting with a healthcare professional are additional considerations to ensure the best choice of probiotics for men's health.
How to use probiotics for men?
The best time to take probiotics for men can vary depending on the specific probiotic supplement and individual preferences. Some probiotic manufacturers recommend taking the supplement on an empty stomach, while others suggest taking it with food.
Research suggests that Saccharomyces boulardii microorganisms may survive equally well with or without a meal, while lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains tend to survive better when taken up to 30 minutes before a meal. However, consistency in taking probiotics is likely more important than specific timing. Therefore, it is advisable to establish a routine and take probiotics at the same time every day to maintain their effectiveness.
Ultimately, it is recommended to follow the instructions provided by the specific probiotic supplement or consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on timing and dosage.
Recommended dosage
The recommended dosage for probiotic supplements can vary depending on the product and the intended use. It is important to note that no overarching dosage recommendation for probiotics applies to everyone. The dosage can depend on different factors, such as the strain of probiotics, the purpose of supplementation, and individual needs.
It is also worth noting that probiotics can be obtained from various food sources, but the amounts can vary based on factors such as shelf life, manufacturing processes, and storage conditions. It can be challenging to determine the exact CFU count from food alone. Therefore, many individuals opt for probiotic supplements to ensure a more consistent and measurable dosage.
Possible side effects of using probiotics for men
When taking probiotics, there are possible side effects to be aware of. These may include:
- Temporary increase in gas and bloating
- Constipation
- Increased thirst
These side effects often subside after a few weeks of continued use. Some probiotic-rich foods, such as sauerkraut and kimchi, contain biogenic amines, which can trigger headaches in sensitive individuals.
Probiotics can also produce histamine, potentially leading to allergy-like symptoms in those with histamine intolerance. Additionally, individuals with severe illnesses or compromised immune system should exercise caution when using probiotics, as they may increase the risk of infection.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms providing an array of health benefits to the user when administered in adequate amounts. Various supplements and foods can be categorized as probiotics. Probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, buttermilk, cottage cheese, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso soup. These foods often contain strains of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, and the packaging should specify the available strains.
Supplements offer an alternative method to enhance probiotic intake and are typically formulated with specific strains. Common strains include bacillus, lactobacilli, bifidobacteria, and saccharomyces.
While there is limited evidence regarding the distinct effects of probiotics on men and women, many supplements are specifically tailored for either gender.
Probiotics vs. prebiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria found in certain foods or supplements that provide health benefits by supporting digestion, immune function, and inflammation regulation.
Prebiotics, on the other hand, are indigestible fibers found in vegetables, fruits, and legumes that act as food for beneficial gut bacteria. They promote the growth and activity of these bacteria, contributing to a healthy gut microbiota.
While probiotics provide direct benefits, prebiotics nourish the existing good bacteria. Both probiotics and prebiotics play crucial roles in maintaining a healthy gut and overall digestive health.
How do you know if probiotics are working?
Determining the effectiveness of a probiotic can be assessed by observing key indicators. It includes improvements in several symptoms:
- Abdominal pain
- Digestive issues
- Reduced bloating
However, the response to probiotics may vary among individuals, and specific strains and dosages can influence outcomes. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional — especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, elderly, or have a compromised immune system. You can understand whether a probiotic works for you by monitoring these indicators and seeking professional guidance.
Natural food sources of probiotics
These foods can be incorporated into your diet to increase your probiotic intake and support gut health naturally:
- Yogurt. Made from fermented milk, yogurt contains probiotic bacteria such as lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.
- Kefir. A fermented milk drink, kefir is rich in diverse bacteria and yeast strains.
- Sauerkraut. Finely shredded fermented cabbage, sauerkraut is a probiotic food. Opt for unpasteurized versions for live probiotics.
- Kimchi. A traditional Korean dish, kimchi is made from fermented cabbage and offers gut-friendly lactobacillus bacteria.
- Miso. A paste made from fermented soybeans, miso is commonly used in Japanese cuisine. It contains beneficial bacterium aspergillus oryzae.
- Tempeh. A soy-based food, tempeh undergoes fermentation and provides probiotics along with protein, fiber, and iron.
- Kombucha. A fermented tea beverage, kombucha contains various gut-beneficial bacteria and yeast species.
Explore other probiotic products and benefits
Best probiotics for women may support digestive and vaginal health.
Best probiotics to lose weight can help reduce belly fat.
Best probiotics for IBS can be helpful with abdominal pain relief.
Best probiotics for constipation may aid in restoring good bacteria balance.
Best probiotics for bloating explores products specifically designed to combat digestive issues.
Best testosterone boosters for ED might help you keep healthy testosterone levels
FAQ
What is the best probiotic for men’s health?
Ritual Synbiotic+ is one of the best probiotic supplements for men because it contains a comprehensive 3-in-1 formula with only 1 daily capsule. The ingredients include not only probiotics but also a blend of prebiotics and postbiotics. This makes the product a perfect option for addressing the overall health of men.
Can probiotics help erectile dysfunction?
Yes. Probiotics may help improve men's sexual health indirectly via the gut microbiome.
However, while evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiome and male reproductive health, including erectile dysfunction (ED), more research is needed to establish the specific mechanisms and therapeutic opportunities related to probiotics in treating ED.
Do probiotics affect sperm?
Yes. There is some evidence suggestingthat probiotics may have an impact on sperm parameters and male fertility. Human studies have shown that probiotic supplementation can improve sperm motility, concentration, and DNA fragmentation.
These effects were observed in infertile men with conditions such as idiopathic oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (reduced sperm count, motility, and morphology).
- Human Fertility. Probiotic effects on sperm parameters, oxidative stress index, inflammatory factors and sex hormones in infertile men.
- Andrology. Exploring the role of gut microbiome in male reproduction.
- Military Medicine. Gut Microbiota-targeted Interventions for Reducing the Incidence, Duration, and Severity of Respiratory Tract Infections in Healthy Non-elderly Adults.
- Nutrients. Effects of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics on Human Health.
- Nutrients. Side Effects Associated with Probiotic Use in Adult Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.
Show all references
- Cells. Probiotics Mechanism of Action on Immune Cells and Beneficial Effects on Human Health.
- Nutrients. Role of Probiotics in Stimulating the Immune System in Viral Respiratory Tract Infections: A Narrative Review.
- PLOS ONE. Probiotic Microbes Sustain Youthful Serum Testosterone Levels and Testicular Size in Aging Mice.
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