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The 10 Best Vegan Probiotics to Support Your Health in 2024

The 10 Best Vegan Probiotics to Support Your Health in 2024

Did you know that there are as many bacteria living in and on our bodies as there are our own cells? Some are good, some bad, but together they form a micro-environment that contributes to our overall health. This is especially true in our gut, where an imbalance can lead to all sorts of issues. We get most of these good bacteria, which are known as probiotics, from our diet, though those of us who are vegan may be lacking in this area.

Probiotic supplements are becoming more and more popular these days and claim to help maintain gut health with lead-on effects such as boosted mood and higher energy levels. This is an attractive prospect to many, though there are a number of properties to be aware of when deciding which probiotic supplement is worth your time and money.

Read on, and we’ll outline what you need to know to make the big decision on which vegan supplement is right for you and your family.

Choosing the Right Probiotic Supplement for You

As mainstream popularity in probiotics has surged, a huge number of supplement options have appeared on the market, each trying to carve their own unique niche with different benefits and properties. It may seem overwhelming at first, and you may not know how each differs from the other, but there are a few characteristics to bear in mind.

We will focus here on what you need to look for in specific supplement products when deciding to buy, but if you are interested in reading further on the general issues and benefits surrounding probiotics, we recommend you read our in-depth guide here.

Are Probiotic Supplements Vegan?

As with most dietary supplements and similar products on the market, buying probiotics can be a minefield when it comes to vegan suitability. Thankfully there are many vegan options, but it does require a close eye on the ingredients to make sure none of them are sourced from animal products. A hidden danger here is often the capsules that the bacteria are contained in, as they can often contain gelatin.

It is also worth noting that some of the bacteria themselves can be derived from dairy sources, but this is not always the case. Lactobacillus is a common probiotic and may sound as though it is cultured in dairy, but it can also be sourced from fermented rice, making it vegan-friendly.

All the products on this list have been determined to be vegan, but if you shop around you should keep the above issues in mind. Additionally, there are many vegan food sources of probiotics, which we will cover in some detail later.

Colony Forming Units (CFU)

One of the primary properties a probiotic supplement advertises is the number of colony-forming units, or CFUs, it supplies per capsule. This is a term used in microbiology and refers to the number of viable, or living, bacterial cells in a sample. What this translates to is the higher the number of CFUs in a capsule, the more likely it is that some will survive the trip through your stomach to form colonies, or grow, in your gut. At least, that is what many brands claim.

CFUs range from 1 billion to 60 billion and, while there is no specific research to say more is better, many products advertise this as true. This article from Harvard states that 1 to 10 billion CFU is ideal but, again, your mileage may vary. It may be worthwhile trying supplements of varying strength to determine what is right for your body as, unfortunately, individual reactions can be unique.

Probiotic Bacterial Strains

There are a large number of naturally-occurring bacteria that benefit our health when part of our gut micro-flora and a number of these are used in probiotic products. Three main species stand out for their claimed benefits, and these are:

Lactobacillus, which produce lactase and lactic acid. This may have the benefit of controlling the population of bad bacteria in your gut and promoting the absorption of minerals.

Bifidobacteria, which is thought to support the immune system, limit the growth of harmful bacteria and also help with mineral absorption.

Bacillus Coagulans, which is widely-studied and may help with gut issues such as bloating or diarrhea.

The larger the number of bacterial species and strains a product contains, the broader its array of potential benefits, which is something to bear in mind when browsing.

Additional Ingredients

There are a few additional extras that some products offer to set them apart from others, and these are worth looking for.

Primarily, some supplements may offer prebiotics. These are non-digestible food ingredients that will provide nutrients specifically for the good bacteria in your gut to promote growth. This may promote colony formation so it is an attractive addition to any product.

There may also be some dietary extras included in some supplements, such as vitamins or botanicals that help with overall health. While not necessary, they may be convenient.

Now that we have laid out the basics of what to look for in a probiotic supplement, let’s take a look at ten of the best vegan options on the market today. We have provided a broad selection of unique products that we hope will be suitable for your needs or, if not, at least provide a basis from which you can further research the subject.

Top 10 Best Vegan Probiotics 2024

1. Best Overall Vegan Probiotic: Physician’s Choice 60 Billion CFU Probiotic

Physician’s Choice 60 Billion CFU Probiotic

Why we like it: This product is a winner, doctor-approved and boasts a high CFU number, plus all the extras, for a very reasonable price.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 60 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 10
  • Prebiotics: Yes

Physician’s Choice probiotics come doctor-approved, so you can be sure of quality. What makes this product stand out among others is the generous amount of active ingredients that are included for a reasonable price. If you are concerned about the efficacy of your probiotic, this product may be assuring.

Compared to other options on the market, Physicians Choice boasts an extremely high CFU number – 60 Billion per capsule. This is to help ensure that the active bacteria reach your gut to effectively alter your microflora. Ten different strains of bacteria help improve gut health by combating bloating, bad gas, and constipation. Organic prebiotics are included, derived from Jerusalem artichoke and chicory root powder, which support the growth of good bacteria.

Each bottle contains 30 capsules, which is a one-month supply. The bottle itself is a patented design that will keep the tablets protected from light and moisture, keeping the bacteria alive and active for longer. Delayed-release, acid-resistant capsules do the same, helping to ensure the bacteria reach your gut where they can work effectively.

It has been claimed that this product is particularly powerful, which has resulted in some cases of bloating and discomfort when taking it for the first time. You may want to be aware of this when beginning a course, especially if you have a sensitive stomach. If you need something milder, we recommend Ora Organic’s Trust Your Gut probiotics.

Our favorite, and great value for money, this product is suited for those who are concerned with seeing results, though bear in mind the potential strength of this probiotic.

Pros

  • Comparatively high CFU number
  • Approved by doctors
  • Reasonable price

Cons

  • Can result in bloating when first taken

2. Best Organic Supplement: Ora Organic Trust Your Gut

Ora Organic Trust Your Gut

Why we like it: A mild, organically-sourced probiotic formulated for sensitive stomachs, you can be sure to experience the benefits without any uncomfortable side-effects.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 16 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 6
  • Prebiotics: Yes

This product from Ora Organic boasts a number of benefits that set it apart from other options on the market. Primarily, as their name might suggest, all ingredients are naturally sourced and organic. No GMOs, no gluten, dairy, or soy – this offers peace of mind for those of us concerned with what we put in our bodies when it comes to pills and supplements. Formulated for sensitive stomachs, Ora Organic guarantees no upset or bloating.

16 billion CFUs is not as high as Physician’s Choice 60 Billion CFU but is still a healthy amount that should result in a positive change in your gut microbiome when taken regularly. Six different strains of helpful bacteria provide a broad spectrum of potential benefits, plus two prebiotics – derived from organic tapioca and organic Jerusalem artichoke – to help encourage their growth.

Each bottle comes with 60 capsules, which is a month’s worth of doses. They are easy to swallow and comprised of pullulan, which is vegan-friendly and acid-resistant, ensuring the survival of the bacteria as it passes into your gut. The bacteria itself is freeze-dried in a similar fashion to baker’s yeast, which makes it shelf-stable without refrigeration and ensures it remains active until used.

One criticism is that, on rare occasions, the powder inside the capsule is known to cake and harden before the expiry date, which renders them unsuitable for use.

Overall, a strong contender on our list, suitable for those with delicate stomachs that need a helping hand, but make sure you store the bottle properly and examine the capsules for caking before use.

Pros

  • Organically-sourced for peace of mind
  • Formulated for sensitive stomachs
  • Two prebiotics help bacterial growth

Cons

  • Known to dry and cake prematurely, rendering supplement unusable

3. Highest Strength Supplement: Naturelo Probiotic

Naturelo Probiotic

Why we like it: High-strength for guaranteed results, this product comes at a comparatively high price but is worth the investment, with a high CFU number and a generous amount of bacterial strains.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 50 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 11
  • Prebiotics: No

A high-potency probiotic, Naturelo claims a greater effectiveness compared to other brands on the market, though does so at a price that’s a little higher than its competitors. Designed to help maintain intestinal comfort, aid digestion, and relieve occasional bloating, it nonetheless may be an attractive option to those who don’t mind spending a little extra.

Boasting a massive 50 billion CFUs, the word of the day for this brand is ‘potency.’ A higher CFU number tends to result in more live bacteria reaching the gut, so this may be assuring for those who worry about the effectiveness of their probiotics. 11 strains of bacteria are included to cover a broad array of benefits, including support of colon health and bowel regularity. There are no prebiotics, but Naturelo claim this is a choice on their part, as their supplement is potent enough without them.

Each bottle is shipped with 30 capsules, which is a month’s worth at the recommended one-per-day dose. The bacteria are freeze-dried, which makes them shelf-stable for up to three years and viable without refrigeration. The patented delay-release capsule makes sure the contents are delivered to the gut safely and undamaged by stomach acid, so you can be sure of efficacy.

Due to the strength of this supplement, you may want to be aware of possible side-effects when starting them. There have been complaints of mild stomach upset and energy loss. All bodies are different, so reactions to the product may be unique. The occurrence of the side-effects is rare but be mindful when beginning a course to determine if this is the right probiotic for you.

A product that stands out on our list for its potency, you will, however, be paying a premium price for it. This may be worth it for the assurance of quality, but if you are looking for a similar product at a lower price, we recommend looking at this product from Physician’s Choice.

Pros

  • Comparatively high CFU number
  • Many beneficial bacterial strains
  • Freeze-dried for long shelf life

Cons

  • High strength may result in adverse effects when first taking the product

4. Best Supplement for Families: Yuve Vegan Probiotic Gummies

Yuve Vegan Probiotic Gummies

Why we like it: An easy-to-take gummy that’s tasty and effective. While the product’s specs may seem unimpressive, its comparative simplicity is part of its appeal.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 5 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 1
  • Prebiotics: No

This product by Yuve is marketed for both children and adults – an easy-to-take gummy probiotic with few of the bells and whistles other products offer. This may be a worthwhile, no-nonsense choice to some who prefer a simple option that is still effective. Yuve claim particular benefits for women’s health, including intestinal balance and clearer, smoother skin.

5 billion CFUs isn’t particularly high compared to other products, however, with regular dosing the effects should still be apparent. Only one strain of bacteria is included, Bacillus Coagulans, which is one of the more popular probiotics, for good reason. Many products take advantage of this strain, as its effectiveness has been extensively studied and there is some evidence for its benefit. No prebiotics are supplied, although this isn’t surprising for a gummy product and is by no means required.

The bottle comes with 60 gummy pills, which are a month’s supply for adults, at two per day, and two months for children. The gummies themselves are easy to chew and flavored with natural strawberry and orange extracts. This is particularly good for those who struggle to swallow pills and capsules. Unlike most other products on this list, however, this probiotic requires refrigeration.

Compared to some other probiotics, this product seems to have a relatively short shelf life. There have been reports of the gummies developing mold before the bottle has been finished, even when refrigerated. This is a rare occurrence, however, and should not affect common usage.

A versatile probiotic suited for both adults and children, this may be an option for those who are looking for a simple product to help support the gut health of the whole family. The price is reassuringly reasonable, also. If you are looking for a probiotic formulated especially for children, however, we recommend up4 Kids Probiotic Gummies.

Pros

  • Suitable for the whole family
  • Gummy is easy to take
  • Good value when bought for children

Cons

  • Product has been known to spoil prematurely

5. Best for Women’s Health: Omax Synbiotic Probiotic

Omax Synbiotic Probiotic

Why we like it: This product has a high CFU number and doesn’t skimp on the extras, specifically formulated to benefit women’s health, though also of benefit to men.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 50 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 10
  • Prebiotics: Yes

Omax delivers a powerful supplement that contains a number of the most popular probiotics for the maintenance of gut balance, as well as urinary tract and vaginal health. Clearly a number of these benefits are aimed squarely at women, however the broad-spectrum effectiveness also makes the product an attractive option for men, too.

50 billion CFUs is very high for a probiotic product, resulting in a higher chance of colonization of your gut by the beneficial bacteria provided. 10 strains are included, some specifically chosen to help with urinary tract and vaginal health, which sets this product apart for those who suffer problems in that particular area. The term ‘synbiotic’ refers to a mixture of prebiotic and probiotic ingredients that work in synergy. Chicory root fiber is the prebiotic in this case, which helps support the good bacteria in your gut by providing nutrients specific to their needs.

The product comes as a box of handy blister packs, containing a total of 30 capsules for a month’s supply. The nitrogen-flushed packs mean that the bacteria are shelf-stable and require no refrigeration. As always, the capsules are vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, as well as being produced in the USA, so you can take them worry-free.

While boasting a high CFU number, there have been claims that this product can, in some instances, show few results when taken. This may not necessarily be a comment on the product’s efficacy, but instead illustrative of how everybody has a unique reaction to probiotics. It would be worth being mindful of yourself and your condition when beginning to take this probiotic to determine if the benefit is worth the cost.

A boost for female health is the forefront claim that makes this product stand out, however men should not discount it either. For a reasonable price you are getting a high CFU as well as a carefully selected array of bacterial strains to cover a broad number of health benefits.

Pros

  • Formulated for women’s health
  • High strength compared to other products
  • Reasonable price for contents

Cons

  • May be ineffective for some people

6. Best Premium Vegan Probiotic: Just Thrive Probiotic and Antioxidant

Just Thrive Probiotic and Antioxidant

Why we like it: Boasting a unique, brand-patented bacterial strain, this product aims for broad-spectrum results despite its comparatively low CFU number.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFU: 3 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 4
  • Prebiotics: No

Just Thrive takes pride in its probiotic formula, offering a carefully selected collection of bacterial strains designed for multi-benefit action. Its premium price reflects this fact, though you can be sure you are getting value for money. The only probiotic on our list that contains a bacterial strain patented by the brand, this means it offers a unique benefit you won’t see in other products.

3 billion CFUs may seem low for a premium product, but Just Thrive assures us that this is more than enough, as their spore-based probiotic formula has 1000x survivability through the gut as compared to other brands, or so they claim. The four different bacterial strains selected each have their own benefits, though the stand-out is Bacillus indicus HU36, which is a brand-patented strain that produces antioxidants in the gut. This is beneficial as this means they can be more readily absorbed as compared to dietary antioxidants.

There are 30 capsules in each bottle, which equate to a month’s supply. They are completely vegan, non-GMO, and gluten-free, made with all-natural ingredients for peace of mind. The capsules are shelf-stable and require no refrigeration. Additionally, if you have trouble taking pills the contents of each capsule can be instead mixed with food or water for ease of ingestion.

While the benefits the brand claim are numerous, there have been rare reports of diarrhea occurring when taking the probiotic for the first time. This may settle after some time, but if it continues you may want to consider discontinuing.

A unique addition to our list that claims a host of potential benefits that only this product can provide. Its premium price, however, may put some people off, as it is many times the cost of some cheaper brands.

Pros

  • Brand-patented strain may offer unique results
  • 1000x survivability compared to other brands
  • Capsule contents can be mixed with food for easier ingestion

Cons

  • Rarely known to cause stomach upset when beginning the supplement

7. Best for Children: up4 Kids Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummies

up4 Kids Probiotic + Prebiotic Gummies

Why we like it: The only supplement on our list made especially for children, its mild formulation won’t upset young tummies while delivering its beneficial action.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 1 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 2
  • Prebiotics: Yes

Up4 Kids offers a gentle probiotic aimed at children, presented as tasty pectin-based gummies that will make taking them a pleasure, not a chore. It may seem lacking compared to other products, but it is formulated especially for sensitive young stomachs, with carefully selected strains that will provide maximum benefit with the lowest chance of any side-effects.

1 billion CFUs is low for any probiotic product, but this is by design. A child’s stomach is different from an adult’s, and they do not require as large of a dose. You can still be assured of efficacy, as 1 billion CFUs is more than enough. Two bacterial strains are included, which are selectively chosen. A prebiotic – chicory root extract – also comes as part of each gummy to encourage colony formation and growth. As an added bonus, the gummies also provide 100% of your child’s daily dose of vitamin C, which is a reassuring addition that promotes immune system health.

There are 30 gummies in each bottle, which provide a month’s supply at one per day. They are non-GMO, gluten-free, gelatin-free and entirely vegan. With a pleasing, mixed-berry flavor, your child will look forward to taking them every day, and you will have peace of mind knowing the gummies are made of clean and natural ingredients.

While gentle and formulated for sensitive stomachs, there have been rare instances of stomach aches when taking the probiotic for the first time. You should listen to your child and decide for yourself if the product is right for their needs based upon their reaction.

A great option for kids; this is a good introduction to probiotics that will promote good gut health for a lifetime. They also come at a reasonable price but be aware of possible side-effects when first taking the gummies.

Pros

  • Formulated especially for children
  • Tasty and easy to take
  • Added vitamins boost the immune system

Cons

  • May rarely result in stomach aches

8. Best Budget Vegan Probiotic: Revly Vegan Probiotic

Revly Vegan Probiotic

Why we like it: Simple but robust, this product skimps on the numbers but delivers a well-studied strain of beneficial bacteria at a great price.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 2 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 1
  • Prebiotics: No

Amazon dips their toe in the probiotic market with this offering, a supplement gummy that’s a great budget option. A robust product, what it lacks in additional features it makes up for in simplicity. Completely vegan, gluten-free and non-GMO, it is formulated to high standards to aid digestion for sensitive stomachs.

At 2 billion CFUs the Revly Probiotic comes in at the lower end of the market as compared to other products. It is widely believed that a higher CFU number is better as it helps ensure a healthy population of bacteria reach the gut alive. This puts this product at a disadvantage, but with regular dosing it should not be a problem long-term. A single strain of bacteria is included – Bacillus coagulans – which is common to most probiotics sold currently. No prebiotics come with this supplement, either.

Sixty gummies come in each bottle, which is a month’s supply of two per day. The gummies are pectin-based, soft and chewable, with a natural berry flavor. This comes as a benefit to those of us who find swallowing capsules difficult or unpleasant. The product is shelf-stable and requires no refrigeration, only storage in a cool, dry place.

While many find gummies a more palatable alternative to pills and capsules, this particular product has been criticized for its taste and texture, which some dislike. This may not be an issue for the majority of customers, but it is worth bearing in mind before you make a large order.

A decent probiotic on a budget and if you’re new to probiotic supplements, this may be a good start.

Pros

  • Bacillus coagulans is well-studied for its benefits
  • Great price for contents
  • Easier to take compared to capsules

Cons

  • Taste and texture can be unpalatable to some

9. Best Value Supplement: Rainbow Light ProbioActive

Rainbow Light ProbioActive

Why we like it: An affordably-priced product that comes with a few attractive, additional features, this supplement includes soothing botanicals to promote gut health.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 1 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 1
  • Prebiotics: Yes

Rainbow Light deliver a product that may seem to be on the lower end of the market in terms of CFUs and strains provided but includes a few extra ingredients that give added value and benefit for a reasonable price. Not only does this product contain a prebiotic, but also a number of stomach-soothing botanicals including ginger, fennel, peppermint and turmeric for fast-acting relief.

1 billion CFUs is particularly low in comparison to other probiotic products, but Rainbow Light reassure us of 100% viability, with a unique outer coating that protects the bacteria as it passes through the stomach. The single strain included is Bacillus coagulans, which has broad popularity amongst similar products. A prebiotic is included to promote bacterial growth, as well as the botanicals already mentioned.

There are 90 capsules per bottle which, at 1 per day, equates to a 3-month supply. This offers great value as other similar options on the market are often only enough to supply 1 month. For those of us who have difficulty swallowing pills the capsules may be broken open and the contents sprinkled onto food for consumption. The supplement is shelf-stable and needs no refrigeration.

Perhaps due to its low CFU number there have been reports of the probiotic having little effect when taken. Everybody reacts differently to probiotics, however, so you may find this is not the case. You should bear this in mind when taking the product for the first time and determine if it is right for you.

A product with a low number of active probiotics that is set apart from its peers by its generous additions, prospective buyers will be getting great value for money. 90 capsules per bottle is a large amount for a good price, plus the inclusion of stomach-settling botanicals.

Pros

  • Three-month supply means great value for money
  • Contains beneficial botanicals
  • Unique outer coating helps contents reach gut

Cons

  • Ineffective for some people

10. Deva Nutrition Vegan Probiotic

Deva Nutrition Vegan Probiotic

Why we like it: A great value product that may not boast particularly high numbers, but still offers a robust probiotic for reliable effect on gut health.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • CFUs: 2 Billion
  • Number of Strains: 1
  • Prebiotics: Yes

A great value product, this probiotic from Deva Nutrition doesn’t tip the scales in terms of its CFU number, but it’s a reliable choice for gut health as it features one of the more widely-studied bacterial strains. The product is also registered with the Vegan Society, which offers peace of mind.

At 2 billion CFUs, this supplement comes in at the lower end of the market, however the probiotic provided has shown good survivability in the acidic environment of the stomach, so viability should not be an issue. Bacillus coagulans is the strain provided, which is very common among these kinds of products. A prebiotic is an attractive addition, which provides nutrition to the bacteria in the gut and encourages colony formation.

90 capsules for a bottle is great value, which is a three-month supply at 1 per day. This sets the product apart from similar probiotic supplements, which offer less at the same price. Bacillus coagulans is stable at room temperature, so is shelf-stable and does not require refrigeration. Unlike some other products it is not recommended that the capsules be broken open for consumption with food, as this may affect viability.

Deva Nutrition states that each capsule must be taken 20 minutes before a meal, which is not ideal when compared to other products that may be taken at any point. Additionally, there have been reports of the probiotic having little to no effect in some. This may not be the case for everyone, however, but it is worth being mindful of your condition when taking the supplement.

A basic product in some respects, this is nonetheless made attractive by its great value for money. A prebiotic is a generous addition, but aside from that there is little to set it apart from its competitors. For those of us looking for a bargain, this may be suitable.

Pros

  • Great value at 90 capsules per bottle
  • A prebiotic is a generous addition for the price
  • Bacillus coagulans is a robust choice

Cons

  • Inconvenient dosing guidelines
  • Ineffective for some people

Guide to the Best Vegan Probiotic Supplements in 2024


heart-shaped spill of blue pills from white bottle

Now that you’ve seen some of the best vegan probiotic products on the market today you may still have some lingering questions before you make the decision to buy. Here we’ll try to tackle some of the big issues surrounding the topic to give you a broader perspective that will help you choose.

What Are Probiotics?

We have touched upon this subject briefly, but it is worth reiterating in detail. Probiotic, meaning ‘for life,’ refers to beneficial microorganisms that live inside your body and support your overall health. These are often bacteria, but also include yeasts. Their presence is completely natural and can be encouraged by eating certain foods. Most are located within your gut and digestive tract, but also may be present in other areas.

The population of microorganisms, both good and bad, is known as your microbiome, or microflora. Upsets to this microbiome caused by illness, poor diet or antibiotic use can result in negative effects on health. This may manifest as bloating, diarrhea, low energy and poor mood, or even yeast infections in women, to name a few. Studies show that these symptoms can be helped by a diet rich in probiotics.

This informative article by the National Institutes of Health tackles the subject in some detail, including some of the research into the health benefits probiotics offer. It is also available in a form written for healthcare professionals, which goes into more extensive detail that may be illuminating for those not afraid of technical language.

Benefits of Probiotics

The claimed benefits of probiotics are numerous and, while the science has yet to fully catch up, there is already evidence supporting these assertions. Probiotics may help:

  • Ease symptoms of poor gut health such as diarrhea, discomfort, and even illnesses such as IBS.
  • Improve some mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety or autism. You may also be interested in checking out Ashwagandha, a vegan-friendly herb that has been shown to support mental health.
  • Lower cholesterol.
  • Reduce the severity of allergies.
  • Weight loss.

For a complete list with cited sources we recommend checking out this article by Healthline. In general, however, probiotic products should be seen as a supplement to good health and not a cure for disease.

Vegan Sources of Probiotics

The majority of probiotic intake comes from having a healthy, varied diet. Yogurt is a major source for most people but is, however, off-limits for vegans. Thankfully, many fermented foods are rich in good bacteria, and plenty of these do not contain animal products. Below is a short list of a few stand-outs that you may want to incorporate into your diet.

Pickled Vegetables – This includes dishes such as sauerkraut or kimchi, though make sure the kimchi you buy is a vegan variety, as many are made with fish or seafood.

Vegan Yogurt – Yes, vegan yogurt also contains probiotics, even though it lacks in dairy.

Miso – A versatile, fermented food that can be used in salad dressings, soups and more.

Sourdough Bread – The dough of this bread is fermented so it is rich in good bacteria, though be aware that many are killed during the baking process so do not rely on it as a sole source.

Kombucha – A fermented tea that has a very low alcohol content but is also high in beneficial bacteria.

Supplements – Of course, these are an attractive option for an easier and more direct source of probiotics, especially for those  with a limited diet.

These are just a few options and we encourage you to keep a varied diet to help support overall health.

Should I Take Probiotic Supplements?

This is a question that does not have an easy answer. The benefits of a healthy gut microflora are numerous, and dietary probiotics are highly encouraged, but there are some issues that arise when it comes to supplement pills specifically.

The evidence for the beneficial action of supplements is limited currently and the mechanisms of action are not entirely understood. The general consensus is that, in a generally healthy person, probiotic products will do no harm and may provide a number of possible benefits. However, there are many probiotic strains on the market and, while many have been studied, there are some that have not.

An additional concern is that probiotic products are currently classified as dietary supplements and not drugs, so the FDA does not monitor their manufacture. As such, lower-quality products may not even contain the bacteria they claim to, so it is worth sticking to quality brands, like those in our product review list.

This article from Harvard covers the topic well, and also suggests that those with impaired immune systems may want to speak to their doctor or pharmacist before taking probiotics.

Overall, the benefits have the potential to be numerous, but you will want to make your own decision and, if you do decide to purchase supplements, we advise that you buy quality, well-known products.

Good Health

We’ve come to the end of the guide, and we hope that by now you’re well-informed of the issues and aware of the choices out there. Our list contains a number of some of the highest-quality vegan probiotic supplements on the market, so you can be confident you’ll find something suited to your body’s unique needs.

We hope whatever you purchase will serve you well and keep your gut happy.

Until next time – good health!