9 Best Probiotics For Gut Health (Seed v Ritual v AG1)
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I’ve researched and tested dozens of probiotics for women’s gut health —these are my top picks for their natural, high quality ingredients and potent AFUs/CFUs.
Looking to support your gut health? Me too. Gut health is essential to wellness and feeling good in our bodies, as “our microbiome…helps to shape our immune system,” according to transplant gastroenterologist Dr. Shilpa Ravella. Since a large portion of our immune system lives in the gut, it’s important to nourish our gut microbiota through promoting antibody production, and reducing inflammation — all of which probiotics do! Probiotics support our gut health in more ways than one. From balancing bacteria in the gut to improving digestive health, managing IBS, and even mood and cognitive function, a high quality probiotic goes a long way.
Although I’ve taken probiotics before, I’ve never explored the world of natural, high-quality, clean probiotics to support feminine health. And I probably should have sooner, considering my history of tummy aches galore and UTIs every time I look at a wet bathing suit for too long. Testing these probiotics has shown me the very best of natural probiotics for women, and each one on the list has their numerous benefits. While some are stronger for gut health and some are stronger for feminine health, you really can’t go wrong with these. I, for one, am feeling better than ever!
Seed vs. AG1 vs. Ritual – What makes a good probiotic?
With all the information out there on the types and strains of probiotics that help support our gut needs, it can be confusing to know where to start. That’s why when choosing the best probiotic for gut health, it’s important to consider the following:
-Strain Type & Diversity: A good probiotic should specify which strains are in their product, as some strains can support certain health needs better or have unique properties and benefits. Generally, a probiotic with a highly diverse strain composition is more beneficial to gut heath.
–Shelf Stability & Survivability: Since probiotics are living organisms, they won’t be of much help if they are not active. A good probiotic will list whether it’s shelf-stable or requires refrigeration (both options are good!), and its guaranteed potency through its expiry date. Also ensuring the probiotic you choose offers a timed release or enteric-coating is beneficial, as these both protect probiotics from harsh stomach acids, which can reduce their effectiveness before they reach your intestines.
–Synbiotic Formula: While most probiotics don’t contain pre- or post- biotics, formulas that do will help probiotics thrive, grow and remain active. (We’ve included ones that do in this list!) With synbiotic formulas, you’ll achieve better and more well-rounded support that assists in feeding the healthy bacteria in the gut and maintaining the integrity of the gut barrier.
–AFU: While CFU is common in assessing how many living and reproducing microorganisms are in a probiotic supplement, AFU offers a more functional and accurate representation of microorganism count. AFU assesses how many living and metabolically active cells exist using a fluorescent dye test, whereas CFU involves counting colonies through a culture sample (which thrives only in certain conditions). Through this assessment, AFU measurements provide valuable insight into the viability and ability of microorganisms to survive under different conditions, which is a crucial factor in the effectiveness of a good probiotic. It’s important to note that neither one is necessarily better than the other, simply AFU provides a much more accurate snapshot of microorganism count than CFU.
Now, when it comes to effective probiotic options, Seed, AG1, and Ritual are popular choices on the market, but how do they compare? When it comes to strain type and diversity, Seed takes the lead with 24 probiotic strains that support digestive, skin, and cardiovascular health. Both Seed and Ritual are shelf-stable and offer delayed release, and all three formulas offer synbiotic properties. When it comes to AFU/CFU count, Seed has 53.6 billion AFU, Ritual has 11 billion CFU, and AG1 has 7.2 billion CFU.
Ritual is a great choice if your looking for daily gut support, while Seed is an option to turn to if you require a higher level of digestive and whole body support. We recommend AG1 if you’re always on the go and have a harder time meeting your nutrition goals as it contains over 75 ingredients to help support whole body health, in addition to probiotics. When comparing these three products, there are areas where one thrives over another–however we agree that each of these brands offers high quality formulas that will benefit your gut health needs.
In this guide, we’ve covered the ins and outs of what these popular probiotics offer, as well as a few more of our favorite brands, so you can make the most informed decision for your health.
Why should women consider taking probiotics?
While probiotics are incredibly helpful for anyone, it’s especially important for women, as probiotics can help to balance vaginal PH levels and prevent conditions like yeast infections, BV, and UTIs. When it comes to gut health, it’s true that the gut is the second brain, and making sure you have a healthy gut microbiome can set the stage for better digestion, less bloating, a stronger immune system, clearer skin, and even improvements in mood! Especially if you already struggle with gut or feminine health issues, probiotics can be a total game-changer for women.
Our methodology & criteria:
After careful selection by our editorial team, The Good Trade was sent or purchased these probiotics for review. As I went through my testing with each brand, there were a few factors I paid the closest attention to. While I mostly focused on how my gut health and feminine health felt throughout my testing window, I also weighed other factors like taste, ease of taking, acclimation time, and cost. I also was particularly interested to see if any of the probiotics could tackle both feminine health and gut health concurrently. We regularly update this piece with emerging favorites that meet the criteria below, so check back!
- NATURAL, HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS | Each of these probiotics is made from ingredients that are naturally sourced, tested, and proven effective. No fillers, gums, or binders here!
- AFFORDABILITY | We’ve offered a variety of options at various price points, while prioritizing more affordable choices for better accessibility.
- ACTIVE FLUORESCENT UNITS (AFU) | We’ve done the work for you by including the best brands that provide detailed CFU count (and AFU where available).
The below brands are the best of the best when it comes to science-backed and clinically proven pre-, pro- and postbiotics. From third-party testing to sustainable production to superb ingredients that ensure our guts are healthy and happy, these gut health supplements keep everything regular and flowing. 😉
If you’re look to up your supplement routine to more natural products with organic ingredients, we’ve got you covered with our guides on best magnesium supplements, fiber supplements, and women’s multivitamins to help keep your health in tip-top shape.
**This review is not health advice. Please talk to your OBGYN or healthcare provider before adding any supplements to your diet.
Best Overall | Best Powdered Probiotic | Most Affordable
1. Seed
Clean Ingredients | Vegan; free from gluten, dairy, soy, nut, shellfish, corn, & sesame; glyphosate/AMPA-free, no binders or preservatives; prop-65 compliant
AFU (Active Fluorescent Units) | 53.6 billion
Price | $50/month
Seed‘s clinically-researched daily synbiotic (probiotic + prebiotic) is formulated with strains to support digestive health, gut barrier integrity, gut immune function, and even cardiovascular and dermatological health. The brand has set the bar incredibly high with production standards, testing, biofermentation, and survivability—Seed’s ViaCap technology ensures the probiotic makes it to your colon while still alive. This is the best of the best when it comes to caring for your gut health and microbiome. Even better, the brand has impressive sustainability initiatives and subscription options (monthly refills come in biofilm sachets!) so you never miss your daily dose.
Our Editor Review | “Seed is truly such an amazing probiotic. One of the beauties of seed is that they offer their DS-01, a capsule for gut health and their VS-01, a suppository for vaginal health, so you can get everything you need in one place. When I started taking the DS-01 I noticed an immediate improvement in my digestion and bloating. Even around my menstrual cycle, my bloating has been much less extreme than usual. An added benefit is just how clear my skin has been on Seed’s DS-01! After having a bit of random acne and trying new skincare products to no avail, Seed cleared me up within a week and I noticed a serious glow after two. I love that this is a prebiotic and probiotic together, and it’s one of the most powerful I’ve found in pill form. Their VS-01 is also incredible. I love that it’s non-irritating, with no Phthalates or artificial dyes or fragrances. It’s truly the perfect reset if you’re feeling a bit off down there from swimming, taking prescription medication, stress, or being off your usual routine.”
2. Ritual
Clean Ingredients | Vegan; gluten-free & allergen-friendly; non-GMO; third-party tested
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 11 billion
Price | $54/month
Ritual‘s Synbiotic+ is a 3-in-1 clinically-studied prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics formula to support a balanced gut microbiome. It includes 11b CFUs for digestive support, plus two of the world’s most clinically studied probiotic strains. We love that Ritual uses Made Traceable® ingredients and that you only have to take one capsule—which is formulated as a delayed-release capsule so it reaches your colon while still alive. Take one a day to support your gut health, gut barrier, and immune system.
Our Editor Review | “I noticed an immediate difference with these, especially when it came to settling my stomach. My digestion is so much smoother, and I’m much less prone to stomach aches and food sensitivity. I tend to have trouble with gluten and dairy, but I can take it in moderation without noticing much of a difference when I take Ritual. I feel the difference all day long due to the extended release, especially when I take it on an empty stomach. Plus, I love their minty smell — it’s very soothing!”
3. AG1
Clean Ingredients | Vegan; organic ingredients; non-GMO; free of fillers & preservatives; free from gluten, corn, eggs, peanuts, dairy, & animal by-products
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 7.2 billion
Price | $99/month; discounted subscriptions available (20%+ off)
Our editors are big fans of AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens) for daily greens, vitamins and nutrients, and—yes—pre- and probiotics. (Read our review here!) One yummy scoop of this green powder (mix with water or add to your morning smoothie) includes 75 superpower ingredients for gut and whole body health—including nutrient-dense extracts, herbs, and antioxidants, digestive enzymes, phytonutrients, multiminerals, and so much more. We love that AG1 can be enjoyed as a morning beverage, especially if you have difficulty swallowing pills. The travel packs are an easy option to take on the go so we never miss our daily serving.
Our Editor Review | “Even though I’m not someone who has any trouble swallowing pills, AG1 is such a nice way to break up the vitamin lineup and enjoy a beverage instead. It tastes amazing, which isn’t always a given with green powders. I love how versatile it is; it’s so refreshing in water after my morning workout and it’s so easy to toss a scoop into my smoothie. The formula is also incredible. I love that AG1 contains my daily prebiotics, probiotics, and daily greens. I feel so much more hydrated and less bloated when I take it, much more than I do when I take probiotics in a pill form. I notice the most dramatic impact when I drink it on an empty stomach first thing in the morning.“
4. Ora
Clean Ingredients | Dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free; non-GMO; organic; vegan
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 20 billion
Price | $50/month; discounted subscriptions available (20% off)
If you’re in search of a powdered probiotic, you’re in luck—Ora’s Trust Your Gut shelf-stable vegan probiotic power is a synbiotic powerhouse. With 7 highly-researched probiotic strains alongside natural prebiotic fiber from organic apples and Jerusalem artichokes, this probiotic will help you regulate your digestive system and improve bloating in a matter of days. Be sure to start slow (half a scoop for the first week or two), to minimize any sensitivity as your gut adjusts to the new strains. If you are taking or recently took antibiotics, Ora is also a great choice to replenish your gut microbiome. Mix it with your smoothie, water or sprinkle it on your food–the options are endless!
Our Editor Review | “Ora’s capsules are nothing short of incredible. I took their Lady Bug capsules, which are specifically targeted at supporting feminine health. As I’m prone to UTIs, these were a must-try for me, and they didn’t disappoint. Not only do they keep you protected from imbalances in sensitive areas, but I found that Ora was amazing on my digestive function as well, especially when I take them on an empty stomach. I’m less bloated, I get less stomachaches, and my digestion is better than usual.”
5. Thorne
Clean Ingredients | Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 10 billion
Price | $35/month; discounted subscriptions available (20% off)
For vaginal and urinary tract needs, consider Thorne’s daily probiotic, made with clinically-studied strains and 10 billion cultures. This minimal formula is designed to target those who experience vaginal and urinary issues. This includes unwanted yeast growth, UTIs, and other vaginal bacterial imbalances. With daily use, this supplement promotes healthy microflora populations in the gut and balanced vaginal pH levels. No more itching and discomfort here! Thorne supplements are manufactured in the USA and according to third-parties is the ‘#1 most highly recommended brand by Healthcare practitioners’.
Our Editor Review | “I love Thorne for everything, but their probiotics in particular do wonders. I was particularly interested in checking these out, as I’m prone to UTIs, and I didn’t have a single one when I took them. I tried these out by taking them daily when I was on a trip where I was frequently in my swimsuit, in and out of chlorinated water. I trust these to keep everything steady and balanced, even when I’m doing PH-risky activities like swimming and tanning in my swimsuit. They also noticeably helped keep dietary-related bloating to a minimum, which is a huge plus!”
6. Needed
Clean Ingredients | Non-GMO; allergen friendly; third-party tested
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 30 billion
Price | $60/month; discounted subscriptions available (10%+ off)
Needed is another one of our editor-tested and approved brands for daily vitamins, including prenatals and probiotics that provide microbiome support for you and your baby. Formulated in partnership with leading perinatal and microbiome experts, this pre- and probiotic includes clinically studied spore-forming and non-spore-forming strains and supports key perinatal needs like vaginal balance, digestive comfort, and iron absorption. We love the subscription options and the various plans to save on monthly supplies of supplements for both partners.
Our Editor Review | “Even though I’m not pregnant, I absolutely love that Needed is a high-quality and effective prebiotic and probiotic that’s safe for pregnancy and postpartum. I found that I felt a lot more energized when I took these, and they were amazing for smooth digestion in addition to their designated function of supporting the vaginal PH balance. I’d highly recommend these to anyone who is planning on getting pregnant (or is already pregnant) and wants a probiotic with clean ingredients.”
7. Perelel
Clean Ingredients | Gluten-free, soy-free, dairy-free; non-GMO; third-party tested
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 10 billion
Price | $28/month; discounted subscriptions available (10% off)
Perelel is the brand we love for our conception journey, whether we’re trying to get pregnant, currently growing a baby, or recovering from postpartum. Founded specifically by an OBGYN, the brand has a line of prenatal vitamins with bioavailable ingredients specific to each trimester (including a men’s multi-pack), as well as a daily probiotic for maximum gut support. Thanks to a Carbonfree partnership, Perelel supports carbon offset projects and uses eco-friendly packaging for its supplements, which is better for you and the planet.
Our Editor Review | “I love that this probiotic is designed for both gut health and vaginal health, as someone who has trouble choosing which kind of probiotic to stick with! Even though I’m not currently on a conception journey, I felt great taking these. My immune system felt stronger, bloating was kept to a minimum, and my digestion was incredibly smooth. I’m a huge fan of the fact that these are designed to be taken all the way from pre-conception through postpartum so that it’s a constant that you don’t have to think about changing or replacing!”
8. Garden of Life
Clean Ingredients | No binders, fillers or carriers; whole food vitamins; non-GMO; dairy-free & soy-free options available
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 50–85 billion
Price | $29–$60/month; discounted subscriptions available (15%+ off & free shipping)
There’s a probiotic for everybody with Garden of Life’s extensive collection. Whether you’re looking for UTI support, a daily synbiotic formula, or one for ages 50+, Garden of Life’s probiotics provide nourishing care for both your gut and whole body health. With options boasting an impressive 50–85 billion CFU with some products including up to 33 strains, this potent formula is made to cover all the bases and offer high-level digestive fuel. We love that these formulas include whole food vitamins, minerals, and prebiotics to benefit overall colon and immune health. (Some are also Dr. formulated!) What more could you ask for?
Our Editor Review | “Garden of Life is an amazing overall health probiotic. I love that their formula supports both immune and digestive health, and I definitely feel much better overall when I take them. I feel much more resilient in my immune system, and I notice the difference right away. I’m also very impressed by how reasonable they are while still including whole-food vitamins and minerals with no binders, fillers, or carriers.”
9. MaryRuth Organics
Clean Ingredients | Vegan; dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, soy-free; organic; non-GMO
CFU (Colony Forming Units) | 5–63 billion
Price | $25–$50/month; discounted subscriptions available (10% off)
Prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics unite in MaryRuth Organics high quality daily supplements. Each probiotic product goes to work on different needs, with the overall goal of helping boost our digestive health. If capsules are tough to swallow, MaryRuth offers probiotics in powder, liquid and even gummies form, which is perfect for getting your daily dose in your preferred method! You’ll also find options for postnatal care, hair, skin and nail health, and even added turmeric for its anti-inflammatory properties. No matter what option you go for, every product is vegan with many USDA organic options. It’s no wonder MaryRuth’s has over 12,000 5-star reviews!
Our Editor Review | “These are the perfect probiotics for anyone who has a difficult time swallowing pills but doesn’t want to take the time to mix and drink an entire probiotic beverage. I take the drops in a small glass of water. Similar to AG1, I feel a more immediate and intense impact on my gut health and bloating after I drink this, more than taking probiotics in pill form. I feel so much less bloated, and my digestion is so much smoother when I drink these drops in the morning.”
Jamie Kahn is a writer and yoga teacher based in New York. Her work has been featured in Glamour, Brooklyn Magazine, Epiphany, The Evergreen Review, and others.
