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Probiotics have become popular for anxiety management, offering a natural way to support mental wellness through the gut-brain axis. Probiotics, known as “good bacteria,” help maintain a balanced gut microbiome. A growing body of research suggests probiotics may reduce anxiety symptoms by improving gut health and enhancing neurotransmitter production. This article reveals our top 5 probiotic supplements for anxiety relief in 2024 and explains how these microorganisms may ease anxiety symptoms.
The Gut-Brain Connection: How Probiotics Help with Anxiety
The gut-brain axis is a communication network connecting the gut and brain, involving the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems. The gut produces neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and GABA, which help regulate mood and anxiety levels. Dysbiosis, an imbalance in the gut microbiome, is linked to inflammation and reduced neurotransmitter production, both of which may contribute to anxiety.
Probiotics support the gut-brain connection by restoring microbial balance, reducing inflammation, and boosting neurotransmitter production. Supplementing with probiotics may help manage anxiety symptoms naturally.
Top Probiotic Strains for Anxiety Relief, Backed by Research
Several probiotic strains have been studied for their potential mental health benefits. Here are the strains most often linked to anxiety relief:
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus: This strain has shown promise in reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
- Bifidobacterium longum: Associated with decreased anxiety and improved memory.
- Lactobacillus helveticus: Linked to significant anxiety reduction in clinical studies.
- Bifidobacterium breve: Found to improve mood and reduce stress.
- Lactobacillus plantarum: Known for reducing stress and anxiety symptoms.
For effective anxiety management, look for probiotics that contain one or more of these strains, ideally at a minimum dose of 1 billion CFU.
Our Top 5 Probiotic Supplement Picks for Anxiety in 2024
Here are the best probiotic supplements for anxiety relief, carefully selected based on strain effectiveness, potency, purity, and customer feedback. Each pick contains well-researched strains and is designed to support the gut-brain connection, providing natural relief for anxiety symptoms.
Align Probiotic Pro Formula
$46.95
Align Probiotic, Pro Formula is a daily probiotic supplement designed to support digestive health in both women and men. This probiotic contains Bifidobacterium 35624, a unique strain developed by gastroenterologists and backed by over 20 years of research.
- Helps soothe occasional abdominal discomfort, gas, and bloating
- Promotes a healthy digestive balance with continued daily use
- #1 doctor and gastroenterologist recommended probiotic brand
- Gluten-free, soy-free, and vegetarian capsules
- No refrigeration required
Align Probiotic, Pro Formula stands out for its unique Bifidobacterium 35624 strain, which has been clinically studied and shown to help maintain digestive balance. As the most recommended probiotic brand by doctors and gastroenterologists, Align has a strong reputation for quality and effectiveness.
The convenient capsule format makes it easy to incorporate Align Probiotic, Pro Formula into your daily routine without the need for refrigeration. This supplement is suitable for both women and men looking to support their digestive health and find relief from occasional digestive discomfort.
Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotics
$30.99
Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotics is a powerful probiotic supplement designed to support digestive and immune health in both men and women. Each capsule contains 12 billion CFUs of the most clinically studied probiotic strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), plus the prebiotic inulin for added digestive support.
- Helps reduce occasional digestive discomfort, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea
- Supports immune health and overall well-being
- Proven effective LGG probiotic strain, backed by over 1,000 scientific studies and 30 years of research
- Survives harsh stomach acid to deliver probiotics where they’re needed most in the intestines
- Vegetarian, gluten-free, and soy-free formula with no refrigeration required
Culturelle stands out as a trusted brand in the probiotic market, with their LGG strain being one of the most extensively researched probiotics available. The Pro Strength formula offers a higher potency compared to their regular strength product, making it an excellent choice for those seeking more intensive digestive support.
While some may experience mild side effects like gas or bloating when first starting a probiotic regimen, these typically subside within a few weeks of consistent use. With its powerful blend of clinically proven probiotics and prebiotics, Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotics is a top choice for anyone looking to promote a balanced gut microbiome and support their overall digestive health.
Physician’s CHOICE Probiotics 60 Billion CFU
$35.12
Physician’s CHOICE Probiotics 60 Billion CFU is a high-potency probiotic supplement designed to support digestive health, gut balance, and immune function. Each capsule contains 60 billion colony-forming units (CFU) from 10 diverse probiotic strains, along with an organic prebiotic blend to nourish the beneficial bacteria.
- Maximum strength formula with 60 billion CFU per capsule, more than many other brands
- 10 carefully selected probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species
- Organic prebiotic fiber blend to support probiotic colonization and growth
- Delayed-release, acid-resistant capsules to protect the probiotics from stomach acid
- Free of GMOs, gluten, soy, milk, egg, wheat, peanuts, shellfish, and preservatives
- Made in the USA from domestic and imported ingredients, with third-party testing for purity and potency
Physician’s CHOICE Probiotics stands out for its high CFU count, multiple well-researched probiotic strains, and inclusion of prebiotics to support the probiotic bacteria. The delayed-release capsules are designed to survive stomach acid, ensuring the probiotics reach the intestines alive.
While some consumers may experience mild bloating or gas when first starting this probiotic supplement, these side effects typically subside with continued use. Physician’s CHOICE Probiotics 60 Billion CFU is an excellent choice for those seeking a potent, high-quality probiotic to support digestive and immune health.
NewRhythm Probiotics 50 Billion CFU
$15.29
NewRhythm Probiotics 50 Billion CFU is a high-potency probiotic supplement designed to support digestive health, immune function, and microflora balance. Each vegetarian capsule contains 50 billion colony-forming units (CFU) from 20 carefully selected probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.
- Targeted Release Technology to protect the probiotics from stomach acid and deliver them to the intestines
- 20 scientifically-backed probiotic strains for comprehensive digestive support
- No refrigeration required, making it convenient for travel and on-the-go use
- 100% natural, non-GMO, and gluten-free formula
- Manufactured in the USA following strict GMP standards and third-party tested for purity and potency
NewRhythm Probiotics stands out for its high CFU count, diverse strain profile, and targeted release technology. By delivering a potent dose of beneficial bacteria to the gut, this supplement can help alleviate digestive issues, boost immune health, and promote a balanced microbiome.
While some users may experience mild bloating or gas when first starting this probiotic, these side effects typically subside as the body adjusts. NewRhythm Probiotics 50 Billion CFU is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a powerful, high-quality probiotic supplement to support their overall digestive wellness.
Wholesome Wellness Probiotics 100 Billion CFU
$22.50
Wholesome Wellness Organic Probiotics 100 Billion CFU is a potent and comprehensive probiotic supplement designed to support digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being. This doctor-formulated synbiotic blend contains 34 clinically studied raw probiotic strains, organic prebiotics, organic digestive enzymes, and organic whole food fruits and vegetables.
- 100 billion CFU of 100% raw, live organic probiotics per serving
- 34 diverse probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species
- Organic prebiotic fibers to nourish and support the growth of beneficial bacteria
- Organic digestive enzymes to aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients
- Organic whole food fruits and vegetables for added nutritional support
- Shelf-stable formula that requires no refrigeration
- 100% organic, non-GMO, vegan, and free from binders, soy, gluten, dairy, and other common allergens
Wholesome Wellness Organic Probiotics stands out for its high potency, diverse strain profile, and inclusion of prebiotics, digestive enzymes, and whole food ingredients. This comprehensive formula aims to support a wide range of health benefits, including improved digestion, enhanced immune function, better skin health, and even weight loss.
Manufactured in the USA in an FDA-registered, GMP-certified facility, Wholesome Wellness ensures the highest quality standards for their probiotic supplement. With a 365-day money-back guarantee, the company stands behind the effectiveness of their product.
Choosing the Best Probiotic Supplement for Anxiety Relief
When selecting a probiotic for anxiety, keep these factors in mind:
- Strain-Specific Benefits: Choose a supplement with strains shown to reduce anxiety, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.
- CFU Count: Aim for a high CFU count, at least 1 billion CFU per serving, to ensure sufficient active bacteria.
- Brand Reputation: Select reputable brands that follow good manufacturing practices and conduct third-party testing.
- Stability and Storage: Some probiotics need refrigeration, while others are shelf-stable. Choose one that fits your lifestyle.
- Additional Ingredients: Check for potential allergens or unnecessary additives, especially if you have sensitivities to dairy, gluten, or soy.
The Bottom Line on Probiotics for Anxiety Relief
While more research is needed, current findings suggest that probiotic supplements may be a beneficial addition to a comprehensive anxiety management plan. Probiotics help restore gut balance, which may positively impact mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. However, always consult with your doctor before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have health conditions or take medications. Probiotics are generally safe but may cause mild digestive side effects like gas or bloating.
In conclusion, probiotics offer a range of potential health benefits, including support for mental wellness. Choosing a high-quality probiotic with proven strains can enhance your anxiety management plan. To further support gut health, consider incorporating fermented foods and prebiotic fibers that nourish the beneficial bacteria in your gut.
