The Most Effective Gut Health Supplements For Your Digestive Health

Stress

What can cause poor gut health:

High sugar intake

5 Must-Haves In Gut Support Supplements 

Top 5 Gut Supplements Of 2023

Key Ingredients To Look For

Elements To Avoid

Important Criteria

Prebiotics

Probiotics

Postbiotics

Does Not Contain Postbioitics 

Primal Gut Restore

by Primal Harvest

Bio Complete 3 by GundryMD

Zupoo by UMZU

Flatter Me by HUM Nutrition

Synbiotics by BeLive

We've scouted the market for gut supplements that meet our criteria. Here's a our list of our top picks:

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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information provided by this website or this company is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with your physician and should not be construed as individual medical advice. The testimonials on this website are individual cases and do not guarantee that you will get the same results. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only.

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[1] we have a financial relationship with some of our top picks and partners

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Once upon a time, the digestive system was widely viewed as a pretty simple and straightforward system in our body… But if you’ve ever experienced gut-related issues, you already know that can be anything but simple… In fact, getting to the root cause of gut and gut-related symptoms can very quickly become an incredibly frustrating and confusing process.

Other factors to consider before buying a gut supplement

Choosing a gut supplement that meets all of the above is important. But there are some other criteria to consider. 

You should look for one that is formulated with clinically studied ingredients that have been third-party lab-tested to ensure the highest quality and bioavailability. It's also a good idea to choose one that comes with a 100% money-back guarantee as this is a sign that the company believes in its product.

Bloating, constipation, indigestion? Acne or other skin issues? It may be stemming from your gut. Feeling run down and sluggish? It could also be related to your gut.[1, 2, 3] 

Researchers have become increasingly interested in exploring the gut and its role in so many major areas of our health. But it seems like we’re only just beginning to scratch the surface when it comes to truly understanding the immensely complex connection between gut microbiome health and its impact on our overall well-being.[1, 2, 3] 

Whenever you see the term “gut microbiome,” it’s referring to all of the microorganisms living within your gut. Some of them may be potentially harmful, so-called “bad” bacteria. On the other hand, some are thought to be beneficial, often called “good” or “friendly” bacteria.[1, 2, 3, 4] 

Researchers believe that having optimal gut health typically means having a good balance between the “bad” bacteria and the “good’ bacteria. Ideally, they should co-exist peacefully within the gut.[1, 2, 3, 4] 

Why Is The Gut Microbiome Important?

The gut microbiome plays so many essential roles in the human body, it’s sometimes referred to as “a supporting organ”. It can affect many aspects of health, ranging from the gut to the immune system to brain health.[3] 

Everyone’s gut microbiome is entirely unique and can be impacted by things like diet and our surrounding environment.[5]

It’s likely that our modern lifestyles have been wreaking havoc on our gut microbiota for years. Eating more processed and sugary foods, experiencing more stress, sleeping less, and being more sedentary, can all contribute to imbalance in the gut microbiome.[1, 2, 3, 4] 

Excess alcohol

Poor diet

All Health Starts in Your Gut

What To Look For In Gut Support Supplements

Are you one of the many looking for a way to support your gut? If you're considering trying out gut supplements, knowing what to look for can help you choose the right one. But in a sea of gut supplements finding the right supplement can be a daunting task. 

To help you find the most suitable choice, the Smarter Choices team has done the research for you. We've narrowed down what you should have so you know exactly what to look for (and what to avoid!). 

Our Choice

by Primal Harvest[1]

• Pre-, Pro-, and Postbiotics
• Third-Party Lab-Tested
• Most Complete Gut Formula 
• 90-Day Money-Back Guarantee
• USA-made in GMP-certified facility

Based on 3739 Reviews of Primal Harvest 

3. Zupoo

by UMZU

PROS

• Chemist-formulated
• Contains natural, plant-based ingredients
• Sustainably sourced
• Produced in a CGMP facility 

CONS

• No pre-, pro-, or postbiotics
• High price point (only a 15-day supply)

BOTTOM LINE

Zupoo by UMZU was developed by natural Chemists to support smoother digestion and help eliminate toxic waste.* It is formulated with natural extracts including Cascara Sagrada, bentonite clay, aloe ferox, milk thistle, and cayenne pepper extract. While we liked that the product contains sustainably sourced ingredients and is produced in a CGMP-certified facility, it does not contain any probiotics, prebiotics, or postbiotics like our top two choices. It also does not state how much of each ingredient is in the blend. Additionally, it is fairly expensive when considering that one bottle only contains a 15-day supply.

B

GRADE

4. Flatter Me

by HUM Nutrition

PROS

• With ginger, fennel seed, and peppermint
• Formulated with digestive enzymes
• Vegan capsules and formula
• Clean Label Project certified

CONS

• No probiotics
• Must be taken before meals

BOTTOM LINE

Flatter Me by HUM Nutrition combines natural extracts from ginger, fennell, and peppermint with 18 digestive enzymes to support digestive health.* It is designed to support bloating and should be taken before meal times. Although we liked that the product seemed effective for supporting bloating, we wished that it would contain pro- and postbiotics to support longer-term gut health and a more balanced gut microbiome.* The fact that it needs to be taken before meals may be inconvenient for some customers as they would need to carry the product around with them. 

C+

GRADE

5. Synbiotics

by BeLive

PROS

• Contains pre- and probiotics
• Does not contain corn syrup
• Gummies are easy to chew and swallow

CONS

• Does not contain postbiotics
• Some users reported little improvements from the product

BOTTOM LINE

Synbiotics by BeLive is a prebiotic and probiotic formula designed to support digestive and gut health. We liked that the product includes a bacilius coagulans and prebiotic fiber smoother digestion support.* The company adds a nice touch by ensuring that their products are quality checked at every processing stage. Although the product comes in gummy form we saw that it contained tapioca syrup and sugar. We also saw many reviews that users did not see an improvement after using this product. Finally, the reason that this formula comes in fifth on our list is because it does not contain postbiotics, and is a 2-in-1 formula rather than a 3-in-1 formula. 

C

GRADE

2. Bio Complete 3

by GundryMD

PROS

• Contains pre & probiotics
• 90-day money-back guarantee
• Doctor-formulated

CONS

• High price point
• Serving size is 4 capsules

BOTTOM LINE

Bio Complete 3 by GundryMD is a complete gut health package containing a potent blend of pre, pro, and postbiotics. These 2 per day capsules are designed to improve digestion, boost energy levels, support healthy weight loss and optimize your overall health.* 

​While we like that this product has a comprehensive formula, the price is extremely high which makes it hard for most consumers to afford. Also, Bio Complete 3's serving size is 4 capsules which may be difficult for someone to take each day.

B+

GRADE

• Formulated with CoreBiome™️ Tributyrin postbiotics
• Contains 3 bill. CFUs of B. Longum BB536® probiotics
• Made with pre, pro, and postbiotics
• With activated charcoal
• Third-party lab-tested
• USA-made in GMP-certified facility 
• "No questions asked" 90-day Money-Back-Guarantee

by Primal Harvest[1]

PROS

CONS

• Only available online
• Sometimes runs out of stock

Gut Restore by Primal Harvest is an all-in-one gut support formula that contains pre-, pro- and postbiotics to support gut health, healthy regularity, and digestion.* It is formulated with the trademarked CoreBiome™️ tributyrin postbiotic, 3 billion CFUs of B. Longum BB536® probiotics, and xyliooligosaccharide prebiotics to support a healthy and balanced gut.* The capsules are easy to swallow, making it easy to consume every single day with only two capsules per day. 

The formula is third-party lab-tested and made in the USA in a GMP-certified facility. To top it off, they’re backed by a 90-day money-back guarantee. Gut Restore’s pricing stands out, especially when you buy multiple bottles or sign up for their easy and convenient subscription service.

BOTTOM LINE

A+

GRADE

90-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Subscription Service

Third-Party Lab-Tested 

[1] Usuda, Haruki et al. “Leaky Gut: Effect of Dietary Fiber and Fats on Microbiome and Intestinal Barrier.” International journal of molecular sciences vol. 22,14 7613. 16 Jul. 2021, doi:10.3390/ijms22147613

[2] Cerdó T, García-Santos JA, G Bermúdez M, Campoy C. The Role of Probiotics and Prebiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Obesity. Nutrients. 2019;11(3):635. Published 2019 Mar 15. doi:10.3390/nu11030635

[3] Żółkiewicz, Jakub et al. “Postbiotics-A Step Beyond Pre- and Probiotics.” Nutrients vol. 12,8 2189. 23 Jul. 2020, doi:10.3390/nu12082189

OTHER REFERENCES 

Akatsu H, Iwabuchi N, Xiao JZ, et al. Clinical effects of probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 on immune function and intestinal microbiota in elderly patients receiving enteral tube feeding. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2013;37(5):631-640. doi:10.1177/0148607112467819. 

Canani RB, Costanzo MD, Leone L, Pedata M, Meli R, Calignano A. Potential beneficial effects of butyrate in intestinal and extraintestinal diseases. World J Gastroenterol. 2011;17(12):1519-1528. doi:10.3748/wjg.v17.i12.1519. 

Cani PD, Lecourt E, Dewulf EM, et al. Gut microbiota fermentation of prebiotics increases satietogenic and incretin gut peptide production with consequences for appetite sensation and glucose response after a meal. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009;90(5):1236-1243. doi:10.3945/ajcn.2009.28095. 

Cani PD, Delzenne NM. Gut microflora as a target for energy and metabolic homeostasis. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2007;10(6):729-734. doi:10.1097/MCO.0b013e3282efdebb

CoreBiome Tirutryin: The Source of Wellness. Compound Solutions. https://compoundsolutions.com/corebiome-tributyrin-the-source-of-wellness/. Published January 13 2021. Accessed June 7 2021. 

Cresci, G. Lactobacillus GG and tributyrin supplementation reduce antibiotic-induced intestinal injury. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. 2013. 

Fei, Yanquan et al. Frontiers in physiology vol. 10 1601. 22 Jan. 2020, doi:10.3389/fphys.2019.01601. 

Gao, Z. Butyrate improves insulin sensitivity and increases energy expenditure in mice. Diabetes. 2009.

Glueck B, Han Y, Cresci GAM. Tributyrin Supplementation Protects Immune Responses and Vasculature and Reduces Oxidative Stress in the Proximal Colon of Mice Exposed to Chronic-Binge Ethanol Feeding. J Immunol Res. 2018;2018:9671919. Published 2018 Aug 19. doi:10.1155/2018/9671919.   

Henegan, T. Sodium butyrate epigenetically modulates high-fat diet-induced skeletal muscle mitochondrial adaptation, obesity and insulin resistance through nucleosome positioning. British Journal of Pharmacology. 2015.

Jiang T, Mustapha A, Savaiano DA. Improvement of lactose digestion in humans by ingestion of unfermented milk containing Bifidobacterium longum. J Dairy Sci. 1996;79(5):750-757. doi:10.3168/jds.S0022-0302(96)76422-6.  

Lau AS, Yanagisawa N, Hor YY, et al. Bifidobacterium longum BB536 alleviated upper respiratory illnesses and modulated gut microbiota profiles in Malaysian pre-school children. Benef Microbes. 2018;9(1):61-70. doi:10.3920/BM2017.0063. 

Li, Z. Butyrate reduces appetite and activates brown adipose tissue via the gut-brain neural circuit. Gut Microbiota. 2018.

O'Callaghan A, van Sinderen D. Bifidobacteria and Their Role as Members of the Human Gut Microbiota. Front Microbiol. 2016;7:925. Published 2016 Jun 15. doi:10.3389/fmicb.2016.00925. 

Patel RM, Denning PW. Therapeutic use of prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis: what is the current evidence?. Clin Perinatol. 2013;40(1):11-25. 

Peng L, Li ZR, Green RS, Holzman IR, Lin J. Butyrate enhances the intestinal barrier by facilitating tight junction assembly via activation of AMP-activated protein kinase in Caco-2 cell monolayers. J Nutr. 2009;139(9):1619-1625. doi:10.3945/jn.109.104638. 

Pituch, A. Butyric acid in functional constipation. Prz Gastroenterol. 2013. 

Pokusaeva K, Fitzgerald GF, van Sinderen D. Carbohydrate metabolism in Bifidobacteria. Genes Nutr. 2011;6(3):285-306. doi:10.1007/s12263-010-0206-6.  

Sheu WH, Lee IT, Chen W, Chan YC. Effects of xylooligosaccharides in type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo). 2008;54(5):396-401. doi:10.3177/jnsv.54.396.  

Singh RK, Chang HW, Yan D, et al. Influence of diet on the gut microbiome and implications for human health. J Transl Med. 2017;15(1):73. Published 2017 Apr 8. doi:10.1186/s12967-017-1175-y.  

Slavin J. Fiber and prebiotics: mechanisms and health benefits. Nutrients. 2013;5(4):1417-1435. Published 2013 Apr 22. doi:10.3390/nu5041417. 

Sotira S, Dell'Anno M, Caprarulo V, et al. Effects of Tributyrin Supplementation on Growth Performance, Insulin, Blood Metabolites and Gut Microbiota in Weaned Piglets. Animals (Basel). 2020;10(4):726. Published 2020 Apr 22. doi:10.3390/ani10040726. 

Susuki, T. Physiological concentrations of short-chain fatty acids immediately suppress colonic epithelial permeability. British Journal of Nutrition. 2008. 

Takeda T, Asaoka D, Nojiri S, et al. Usefulness of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 in Elderly Individuals with Chronic Constipation: A Randomized Controlled Trial [published online ahead of print, 2022 Oct 3]. Am J Gastroenterol. 2022;10.14309/ajg.0000000000002028.

Wang J, Ji H. Influence of Probiotics on Dietary Protein Digestion and Utilization in the Gastrointestinal Tract. Curr Protein Pept Sci. 2019;20(2):125-131. doi:10.2174/1389203719666180517100339.

Xiao JZ, Kondo S, Yanagisawa N, et al. Effect of probiotic Bifidobacterium longum BB536 [corrected] in relieving clinical symptoms and modulating plasma cytokine levels of Japanese cedar pollinosis during the pollen season. A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial [published correction appears in J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(4):273]. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol. 2006;16(2):86-93.

Yang J, Summanen PH, Henning SM, et al. Xylooligosaccharide supplementation alters gut bacteria in both healthy and prediabetic adults: a pilot study. Front Physiol. 2015;6:216. Published 2015 Aug 7. doi:10.3389/fphys.2015.00216. 

Yip W, Hughes MR, Li Y, Cait A, Hirst M, Mohn WW, McNaghny KM. Butyrate shames immune cell fate and function in allergic asthma. Front Immunol. 2021 (12):628453. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.628453.

Zaleski, A. Butyric acid in irritable bowel syndrome. Prz Gastroenterol. 2013. 

*We try to update product information as often as we can. Please visit product websites for more information.

• Probiotics: Often called "good" or "friendly" bacteria, probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that can help support digestive and overall health. They help to keep the gut microbiome (or gut flora) balanced and working the way it should to keep you in tip-top shape. [2]
• Prebiotics: Prebiotics are a type of dietary fiber that feed beneficial gut bacteria and encourage the growth of probiotics. They help probiotics produce nutrients that are helpful for promoting optimal digestive and gut health. [2]
• Postbiotics: When probiotics feed on prebiotics they produce bioactive compounds known as postbiotics that offer a number of benefits. There are different types of postbiotics, however, short-chain fatty acids are the most famous because they can help nourish the cells in the gut. The main short-chain fatty acids are butyrate, acetate, and propionate.  [3]
• Must be independently third-party lab tested. Since supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the United States, these unbiased test results will guarantee that the supplement is top quality and free from unwanted extras, such as contaminants, traces of heavy metals, or pesticides. It’s also best to make sure the product you choose is free from unnecessary synthetic fillers, artificial coloring, or chemical additives.
• Must list exactly what’s included in the formula and how much. Pre-, pro-, and postbiotics are linked to a number of wellness benefits - but only in the right amounts. Avoid supplements that don't clearly list their ingredients or that contain low amounts of these key ingredients. Look for one that has a minimum of 3 billion CFUs of probiotics.