13 Best Probiotics for Seniors to Improve Digestive Health
If tummy woes have you down, these friendly bacteria strains may make you feel better.
From banishing bloat to boosting the immune system, there are a myriad of reasons to try one of the best probiotics for seniors. Although the gut-friendly bacteria are helpful to everyone, they’re a must as we age. They aid nutrient absorption, and even help the body produce vitamins. Basically, they’re just as important as your daily multiple.
There are lots of probiotics on the market, and we know picking the right one can be overwhelming. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about different strains, what they do, and how many you need to get the best benefits.
What are the best probiotics for seniors?
- Best overall probiotic for seniors: Wholesome Wellness Women’s Raw Probiotic
- Best probiotic for senior women: Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic Probiotics and Prebiotics
- Best probiotic for women over 50: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women
- Best probiotic for senior men: Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Prostate+
- Best probiotic for menopausal women: MenoFit Menopause Probiotic
- Best probiotic for seniors with acid reflux : NewRhythm Probiotics
- Best probiotic with clinical trials: Culturelle Advanced Regularity Probiotic
- Best probiotic for seniors: Wholesome Wellness Raw Probiotics
- Best powered probiotic for constipation: O Positiv GOGO Powder With Probiotics
- Best gummy probiotic for seniors: Renew Life Probiotics Women’s Care Gummy
- Best digestive probiotic for seniors : HUM Nutrition Flatter Me
- Best probiotics for seniors on Amazon: Doctor’s Recipes Women’s Probiotic
- Best doctor recommended probiotic for seniors: Align Probiotic Extra Strength Probiotic
Should seniors take probiotics?
Uh, yes. In fact, most people should. “Probiotics are good bacteria that help support your gut microbiome and immunity while aiding digestion,” says Katie Bressack, a Board Certified Integrative Nutrition Holistic Health Coach and Wellness Expert based in California.
“You can add probiotics to your diet by including fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, miso, and pickled and fermented veggies. However, since most of us are not eating these types of foods every day, including a probiotic into your daily routine can be very beneficial especially during cold and flu season.”
Some supplements on the market only have one to two strains of bacteria, while some of the best probiotics for seniors have more than a dozen. Check out this infographic that explains some of the strains you may come across, and what they do.
What is the best probiotic for a menopausal woman?
To appreciate the benefit of probiotics, it’s helpful to understand the body’s microbiome. It’s basically like a small community of bacteria, fungi, and even viruses living in the gut and intestines. In a healthy person, the good bacteria keep the bad bacteria in check. However, it doesn’t take much to throw them off their game.
Things that negatively impact the microbiome:
- Poor diet
- Medications, such as antibiotics
- Inactivity
- Alcohol consumption
- Stress
- Aging
Shifting hormones, like what one experiences during perimenopause and menopause, can also impact gut bacteria.
In a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine, researchers found that the gut microbiome was disrupted by changing estrogen levels and inflammation in menopausal women. Similarly, in a 2020 study with menopausal rodents, researchers noted how their changing microbiome resulted in more adipose fat.
If you’re a maturing lady but not quite ready for one of the best probiotics for seniors yet, you may like the Menofit Menopause Probiotic (Amazon, $40.49). It has ingredients like Chasteberry Extract for mood swings, Dong Quai Root Extract for hot flashes, plus several different probiotic strains like Lactobacillus gasseri, which has been linked to weight loss and reduced belly fat.
Probiotics also regulate your digestive system, if you know what I mean. Although none of us like talking about using the bathroom, being regular is important. Along with helping to eliminate waste, it can lead to less bloating and gas. In short, adding one to your routine, regardless of your age, is a good thing.
What probiotic do doctors recommend?
There are many reasons why probiotics are good to take. They support the immune system, decrease inflammation, and lessen symptoms of IBS. According to Cleveland Clinic, doctors recommend choosing a probiotic with at least 1 billion CFUs (colony forming unit) of Bifidobacterium, Saccharomyces boulardii, or Lactobacillus. These strains have been extensively studied.
“You should always look for a probiotic that has more than one strain. Multi-strain probiotics are best [in supporting] your gut health,” explains Bressack. Each bacteria does different things, so it’s better when a probiotic has a high strain count. Here are some to consider:
- Culturelle Pro Strength Daily Probiotic ($29.99)
- Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily to ($23.09)
- Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics For Women ($27.94)
- Seed DS-01 Daily Probiotic ($49.99)
- Menofit Menopause Probiotic ($40.49)
- Wholesome Wellness Women’s Raw Probiotic ($22.50)
Although it’s important to factor what works best for you, taking a probiotic in the evening is optimal. Bressak explains, “About an hour before bed is ideal to aid digestion as your body is going to rest.
“I suggest an hour before bed so that you are not drinking water right before sleeping to reduce the amount of time you might be waking up at night to use the restroom. You can take a prebiotic before taking a probiotic, but you don’t have to [for] the probiotic to be effective…You can also add in more prebiotic foods into your diet like garlic, onions, bananas, asparagus and dandelion greens.”
Who should not take probiotics?
According to the Cleveland Clinic, those who’ve recently had surgery, have a compromised immune system or are critically ill should avoid probiotic use. However, for most people they’re safe. “It might take some time to find the right strains of bacteria to support your body,” says Bressack.
Additionally, if you’re on medication, you should speak with a physician to learn if adding a probiotic will interfere with it. “If you have recently taken antibiotics, it’s very helpful to add in a probiotic to increase the healthy bacteria in your gut [and] support your immunity.
“If you are on any medications, check with your doctor first [to see] if they’d like you to stop or continue using your probiotic while taking antibiotics. There are also some medications that may interact with [them], so you always want to confirm with your doctor before adding anything in.”
Best Probiotics For Seniors
Wholesome Wellness Women's Raw Probiotic
- Description
- Pros
When it comes to probiotics, the more CFUs, the better. This one from Wholesome Wellness has 100 billion, and incredible reviews on Amazon. Much of that comes from it including 34 different bacteria strains to strengthen gut health and the immune system. There’s also enzymes to ease digestion and fight bloat, which can increase with age. If urinary track issues are a concern, the probiotics also includes D-mannose, hibiscus Flower, cranberry, and dandelion root. The vegan and allergen-free supplement doesn’t have any nasty binders, and is shelf stable. That means you can bring it to restaurants, on vacation, or any other place you’ll be noshing.
Promising review: “I have been battling with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) for about three years or so. Despite being careful in what I eat, drink or do, I still suffer from its symptoms. I have tried so many things from changing my diet and eating habits, drinking supplements, or even medicines but nothing seemed to work effectively…[Now] I’m no longer bloated, and I don’t feel uncomfortably full when eating a small portion of my meal. I can say [this] has taken care of my indigestion.”
- 34 strains
- Includes prebiotics
- More than 14,000 5-star reviews!
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic Probiotics and Prebiotics
- Description
- Pros
It’s always nice when a supplement brand can back up claims with some scientific data, and this one has impressive numbers. Seed’s DS-01 Daily boasts 24 strains, such as Limosilactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, which have been studied in clinical trials for effectiveness. What we really like about the shelf stable probiotic, however, is how it’s made. The outer capsule is a prebiotic made up of punicalagins from concetrated Indian pomegranates. The probiotics within the inner capsule love this, and so will your gut. Seed uses a ViaCap technology to help the friendly-bacteria make their way to the colon where they can do their magic. This not only keeps you regular but can increase immunity. Also, the packaging is gorgeous, which never hurts. Although we’ve chosen this as the best probiotics for senior women, we think ladies of all ages will enjoy it.
- 24 strains
- Shelf stable
- Clinical trials and studies
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics for Women
- Description
- Pros
If you’re not quite a senior but are a woman of a particular age (shout out to all my Wendy Williams fans), the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics is a good choice. It has 16 different strains to aid digestion and support vaginal and urinary health. For you that not only means a less upset tummy, but less yeast infections — and none of us want one of those! The selected strains are resistant to stomach acid and bile, and prebiotic fiber has been added into the powerful formula. The vegetarian capsules are soy-free, not made with any GMOs, and are super easy to swallow. More than 40,000 happy customers on Amazon rave about how its helped them with stomach issues. We were so impressed that we included two promising reviews for you to check out!
Promising review: “I spent [almost two years] trying to solve my bloating issues. I was fine in the morning, but by dinner my stomach would be swollen like a balloon. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING fixed it. I went on a FAD diet, cut out dairy, soy, gluten, processed foods — you name it, and I couldn’t solve it. I randomly came across this in the flash of a Youtube video and took a chance on it. It took about three weeks before I really noticed a difference. A whole day would go by and suddenly I realized, “[Whoa!], I didn’t bloat today!’ It was so relieving I could have cried…It’s worth every penny.”
Promising review: “Bought this supplement to help with serious reoccurring and stubborn yeast infections that I have been struggling with for more than a year. Made a huge difference. I’m not great at remembering to take it every day, but when I do, my symptoms almost disappear. This works better than everything the doctor prescribed and everything that others have suggested to me, and it’s [cheaper]!”
- Prebiotic fiber
- Strains for optimal vaginal health
- 16 different strains
Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Prostate+
- Description
- Pros
We couldn’t leave the men out! And if you think about it, we’re helping you too, because it’s sad when the hubby has a sour belly. What we like about this probiotic is that it’s formulated for men, and includes ingredients to promote prostate health. There are 50 billion CFUs in the 15 strain formula, including Lactobaccilus acidophilus, and Bifidobacteria. Both relieve constipation and aid digestion – never a bad thing. Clinically studied Flowens (a cranberry powder) is also included. According to a randomized controlled study on Pubmed, it improves lower urinary tract system. That means less pain and inconvenience for your sweetie, which will probably (we hope) make him a sweeter spouse.
Promising review: “I started taking this product for a vacation I was to take for 10 days that would not allow for refrigeration. I [noticed] it was good for prostate concerns as well. Wow! I have been able to reduce nighttime bathroom runs from an average of four to five times per night to an average of two times per night. Fabulous!”
- Includes Vitamin D and cranberry powder
- Supports immune system
- More than 1,000 5-star reviews on Amazon!
MenoFit Menopause Probiotic
- Description
- Pros
Menopause and even perimenopause can do a number on hormones. For this specific stage of life, we recommend a probiotic made with it in mind. The MenoFit Menopause Probiotic only has four strains, so you may want to add another supplement into the mix. However, the strains it does have (think Lactobacillus gasseri, Bifidobacterium animalis, and Lactobacillus reuteri 1E1 ) promotes weight loss, hormone balance, and supports the immune system. Along with the probiotics, the supplement includes vitamin D3 and vitamin C, plus a variety of herbs to minimize night sweats, hot flashes, and jolt the metabolism. A happy belly and less sweaty sleepless nights? That’s a pill we’re happy to swallow!
Promising review: “Got these mainly for night sweats although weight and digestion are a bonus. Definitely works well for digestion to keep you regular. I usually take this in the morning with a bowl of oatmeal. It says the night sweats will reduce after a few months but honestly, a week in and mine are much better.”
- Eases menopause symptoms
- Promotes natural weight loss
- Includes vitamin C, and vitamin D
NewRhythm Probiotics
- Description
- Pros
Burping may mean compliments to the chef, but it’s also embarrassing. This is especially true if it’s chronic or turns to acid reflux. NewRhythm Probiotics can help put a kibosh on it all with its almost two dozen strains. The shelf-stable formula includes prebiotics, and has had its ingredients tested by a third party lab for potency. Acidophilus, gasseri, and reuteri are only a few of the friendly bacteria within the capsules that can survive stomach acid and regulate the gastrointestinal track. Digestive enzymes calm any sudden bloating, so you won’t have to unzip your pants after a meal. The formula is non-GMO, doesn’t contain soy, gluten, or artificial flavors. All it takes is two pills a day, and you’ll be well on your way to feeling like a less gaseous, acidic you.
Promising review: “As I’ve gotten older my digestion has noticeably slowed down. I also have more acid reflux. Probiotics and digestive enzymes help make eating much more enjoyable.These digestive enzymes have no flavor that I can tell. The gel caps are easy to swallow, making the process of taking these daily much better. I can tell a big difference on the days I don’t take them. My GI track feels more sluggish, and I feel like I have more indigestion. I also have several food intolerance issues, so the fact that these are veggie capsules is a bonus.”
- 20 strains
- 29,000 plus reviews!
- Regulates digestive cycle
Culturelle Advanced Regularity Probiotic
- Description
- Pros
If you’re interested in taking a probiotic purely for health and not necessarily to alleviate any digestion issues, try this one from Culturelle. Its Advanced Regularity Probiotic features Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which has been in more than 100 clinical trials. Don’t believe me? Check out the pages of results on Pubmed for the strain. According to the Microbial Cell Factories Journal, it’s been shown to prevent gastrointestinal infections by triggering the immune system to fight bad bacteria. It can also help with diarrhea. Only one pill needs to be taken daily, and it doesn’t have any added sugar or preservatives. Happy customers on Amazon love it for their kids, but this is also great (and made) for adults who want to up their gut game.
Promising review: “Works well for constipation relief. I [used the bathroom] in 24 hours.”
- Clinical trials
- Promotes regularity
- Fights bloating
Wholesome Wellness Raw Probiotics
- Description
- Pros
Probiotics naturally occur in yogurt and fermented foods. However, nobody’s diet is perfect, and the right supplement can fill in the nutritional gaps. This probiotic from Wholesome Wellness is a good one to use for this. It boasts 34 different strains, plus digestive enzymes. Its prebiotics come from a variety of organic vegetables, and it’s completely vegan. Some of the strains, like acidophilus and fermentum, are there, but the capsules also has cerevisiae, which may promote healthier hair, as well as longum to break down carbs. Whether your gastro-track feels slow or you’re wanting to keep your tummy in tip-top shape, this will have the strain to help.
Promising review: “Better bowel movement right away. I take it regularly, one cap a day…Perfect for people like me over who are 50-years of age.”
- 34 strains
- 100 Billion CFUs
- 22,000 plus Amazon reviews!
O Positiv GOGO Powder With Probiotics
- Description
- Pros
Fiber is just as crucial for a healthy digestive system as probiotics are. Sadly, according to Harvard Health, the average American only consumes 15 grams of it per day. And FYI, a woman over the age of 50 should be hitting 25 grams. This delicious mango orange flavored supplement from O Positiv makes it easier to get there. It has psyllium husk, a fibrous prebiotic to promote regularity. It also keeps you full, so you’re less likely to give in to unhealthy cravings. The probiotic Bacillus coagulans balances intestinal floral, fighting bloat, and bolstering the immune system. This is not only one of the best probiotics for seniors but great for women and men of all ages. It can be taken with water or juice, but we recommend mixing it into a thyroid-friendly weight loss smoothie. Eating well always makes one feel more energized, and once GOGO Powder is added into the routine, you’ll really feel the urge to move!
Promising review: “I had such a hard time in the bathroom every morning… I would get hemorrhoids, because of how hard I strained. I tried drinking more water, and that helped a little. Now I drink a GOGO Powder shake everyday, and each [BM] j comes so much easier. Thank you!”
- Can be added to water, juice or smoothies
- Yummy flavor
- Relieves constipation
Renew Life Probiotics Women's Care Gummy
- Description
- Pros
If remembering to take your probiotics is an issue, maybe these yummy ones will help. They’re of the gummy variety, low in sugar, and packed with good for you bacteria. Specially formulated for women, the Renew Life Probiotics include cranberry for urinary health, Bacillus Coagulans (to ward off BV), and Bacillus Subtilis to balance intestinal flora. Prebiotics from chicory roots tops it off for an easy to digest treat for your stomach. Seventy-nine percent of Amazon shoppers give it five stars. Once you give them a try, that number may go up to 80 percent!
Promising review: “I’ve always struggled with BV, yeast, and UTIs for basically my entire adult life. A terrible cycle… I’d get a UTI, treat it with antibiotics, then get a yeast infection from the antibiotics…I eventually realized I couldn’t keep seeing a doctor so frequently for these issues, and the doctors couldn’t really provide me any more help beyond “Are you eating enough yogurt?” Long story short, these little pills are a life saver.”
- Contains cranberry for urinary health
- Includes prebiotics
- Vegan, and gluten-free
HUM Nutrition Flatter Me
- Description
- Pros
If you feel bloated after every meal instead of satisfied, try these. No, they’re not technically probiotics, but they are loaded with more than a dozen digestive enzymes to break down bloat-inducing culprits, like lactose and carbs. Tummy soothing peppermint and ginger nix gassiness, and fennel promotes better nutrient absorption. The twice a day Flatter Me supplement is GMO-free, doesn’t have gluten, artificial sweeteners or anything else that may wreck your gut. Happy HUM Nutrition Customers report feeling slimmer, and being less backed-up after incorporating it into meal times.
Promising review: “I have had horrible bloating issues for years. I’ve never found anything that helps except for occasionally GasX. This product has genuinely changed my life and will never not use this product. I don’t have to unbutton my pants or go home after eating out. Felt the relief on day one, which was amazing. Obsessed with this!”
- Calms an upset tummy
- 18 full-spectrum enzymes
- Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars!
Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic
- Description
- Pros
Alternative medicine teaches that the body is one entire system. Having said this, we know that poor digestive health can impact the urinary tract, as well as our lady parts. What we love about these delayed-release capsules is that they also have cranberry for the kidneys, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri for healthier vaginal flora. Some of the other gut-friendly bacteria include Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus paracasei to boost nutrient absorption. More than 17,000 folks on Amazon give this probiotic five-stars, and praise it for improving inflammation, eliminating yeast infections, and other health woes.
Promising review: “Women probiotics is my first product of this type. I was experiencing urinary tract infections, and [after] the second round of antibiotics I decided to try probiotics. Problem has not come back, and I am now placing my order regularly. Oh, and I’m almost 71-years-old, and seniors are most likely to have these infections…Overall, I feel better!”
- More than 22,000 reviews!
- 16 different strains
- Shelf stable, and vegan
Align Probiotic Extra Strength Probiotic
- Description
- Pros
Amazon customers love this extra strength probiotic from Align. It has five billion CFUs of bifidobacteria. Along with being good for digestion, it produces folate, vitamin K, and even biotin in the intestines. It’s also anti-inflammatory, which also means it’s immune boosting. According to Front Microbiology, Bifidobacterium strains are resistant to antibiotics, so this may be a good option if you’re taking meds that could throw your tummy out of whack. Of course, speak with your doctor first, but if your digestive track is on the fritz from other issues, it’s worth checking out.
Promising review: “I am told this the best choice to replace gut flora after antibiotics by one doctor and another doctor said it is the best for healing gastroenteritis. Been using if for a several years now.”
- Encourages vitamin production
- Immune boosting
- More than 3,000 reviews on Amazon!
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