Men’s Health: We Review The Best Probiotic For Men

Can “good” bacteria really help men’s gut health?

Generally, we tend to think of bacteria as something harmful, lurking in the shadows with the sole aim of spreading disease.

This is actually quite far from the truth. Some bacteria are, in fact, very helpful.

Probiotics are live microorganisms that may benefit health. Similar microbes live naturally in your gut, and probiotics are also found in some foods and supplements.

Research is promising for a few uses, such as lowering the chance of diarrhea during antibiotic treatment. For most other claims, we still don’t know which probiotics help and which don’t.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. Probiotic supplements don’t need FDA approval before they’re sold, and none is approved to treat or prevent disease.

We know that it is important to eat right and exercise, but are you taking care of your gut as well?

A healthy gut matters for digestion and overall health. Scientists are also studying links between gut microbes and mood and skin, but that research is early.

You may have read that 60%-80% of the immune system is located in the gut. Much of the body’s immune tissue does line the gut, but that doesn’t mean a supplement can “boost” immunity.

A fiber-rich diet with fermented foods is a good base for gut health. Some people also consider the use of probiotics. With various different types out there, I’ll go over what to look for and how to use them sensibly.

Probiotics Explained

You may have heard the term “probiotics” before, but do you really know what they are and what they do?

Probiotics are live microbes similar to the helpful bacteria in your digestive system.

They’re found in some foods like yogurt and fermented pickles. Antibiotics kill helpful gut bacteria as well as harmful ones, which is why probiotics are sometimes used during a course of antibiotics.

Why Do Men Need Probiotics?

Just like with women and children, there are many top probiotics to choose from for men. So what will probiotics help us guys with?

Claims that a daily probiotic will boost your metabolism or help you lose weight aren’t well supported by research. If you struggle to lose weight, talk to your doctor about diet, activity and possible medical causes.

Skin is another area of interest. Diets heavy in processed food are linked with more inflammation in the body, and researchers are studying whether gut bacteria affect acne. There isn’t good evidence yet that a probiotic clears skin.

A healthy diet matters more than any supplement.

Advantages of Using Probiotics for Men

The best-supported use is during antibiotic treatment, which kills helpful bacteria. Some probiotics may lower the chance of antibiotic-associated diarrhea.

Claims about energy, immunity and weight loss have much weaker evidence.

Did you know that the gut is home to hundreds of millions of neurons?

It might seem strange, but many scientists actually call the gut the ‘second brain’.​

Researchers are studying how the gut and brain communicate, but it’s too early to say probiotics improve mood.

What Makes A Good Probiotic Supplement?

When you’re looking for the best probiotic for men, it’s easy to become overwhelmed with the immense volume of different offerings available.

There are, however, some key points you should consider when comparing alternatives:

1. A good supplement will give details

You should be able to see the specific probiotic strains included as well as the amount of colony-forming units (CFUs).

More strains or a higher CFU count doesn’t automatically mean a better product. What matters most is whether the specific strain, at the dose on the label, has been studied for your purpose.

Look for a label that lists the full strain name (for example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG) and the CFU count at the end of shelf life, not just at manufacture.

Some of the most important strains include:

• L. acidophilus – A common Lactobacillus species found in yogurt and many supplements.
• B. bifidum – A Bifidobacterium species that is a common resident of the gut.
• B. longum – Another common Bifidobacterium species, studied for digestive health.
• L. rhamnosus – Certain strains, such as L. rhamnosus GG, are among the most studied, including for diarrhea.
• L. fermentum – A Lactobacillus species also found in fermented foods.

Effects are strain-specific, so research on one strain doesn’t apply to every product with the same species name.

2. The product delivery system is very important.

The reason for this is that bacteria are living organisms and need to reach your gut alive.

This means they need to be kept alive and healthy while on store shelves as well as survive the treacherous journey through a sea of stomach acid before reaching their final destination.

Some probiotics need refrigeration and others are shelf-stable. Follow the storage directions on the label and protect them from heat, moisture and light.

When comparing alternatives, look for a product with thick, opaque packaging and details of the technology used.

Some supplements use a delayed-release capsule or tablet that the maker says protects the bacteria from stomach acid.

3. Expiration dates are of the utmost importance.

Expiration or “best by” dates aren’t required by law on supplements, but good brands include them. When you’re looking for the best probiotic for men or women, they help you judge a product.

A date paired with a CFU count “at expiration” tells you how many live bacteria the maker expects at the end of shelf life.

If a probiotic has no date at all, there’s no way to know how long the bacteria will last. Third-party testing seals can also add confidence.

Health Issues Specific To Men

Men and women face some different health risks. Probiotics don’t prevent the conditions below, but they are worth knowing about, and regular checkups help catch them early.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States.

In the most common type, fatty plaque builds up in the arteries that supply the heart or brain.

A blood clot can then form on the plaque and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Lung Cancer

Smoking causes most lung cancers, so not smoking, or quitting, is the best way to lower your risk.

Lung cancer kills more men than any other cancer.

Prostate Cancer

Women can’t possibly suffer from this disease as they don’t have prostate glands.

The prostate is about the size of a walnut and sits just below the bladder, in front of the rectum. It makes part of the fluid in semen.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in American men. Many cases grow slowly, and men can talk with their doctor about whether screening is right for them.

Depression

Depression is an emotional disturbance that will affect your entire well-being. You’ll find that your sleep patterns, appetite and energy levels all get disturbed by this sneaky disease.

Research also links depression with a higher risk of heart disease.

In men, depression may show up as irritability, anger or risk-taking rather than sadness.

Some men turn to alcohol or drugs to cope. Depression is treatable. If you are in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S.

Diabetes

Diabetes tends to come on silently with blood sugar levels slowly creeping up higher.

Common symptoms include frequent urination and excessive thirst, but many people have no symptoms at first. Over time, high blood sugar damages blood vessels and nerves.

It can lead to heart attacks, strokes, blindness, amputations and kidney failure.

Erectile Dysfunction

While this isn’t a life threatening issue, it could indicate a more serious health issue.

ED becomes more common with age, but it isn’t just an issue for older men.

Heart and blood vessel diseases, such as atherosclerosis and high blood pressure, are common causes. Atherosclerosis is the same process that causes heart attacks and strokes.

That’s why ED can be an early warning sign worth raising with your doctor.

Key Benefits To Taking A Probiotic Specific For Men

Probiotics aren’t just for women. Here is what the research does and doesn’t show for some issues men ask about. There’s no evidence that a “men’s” formula works better than any other probiotic.

Yeast Infections

I know when you hear this, you assume I am talking about issues for women, but I am not.

Male yeast infections may be less common, but they happen.

They can be passed during sex, and they are more likely in men with diabetes, a weak immune system or after antibiotics.

A yeast infection needs proper diagnosis and antifungal treatment. Probiotics haven’t been proven to prevent yeast infections in men.

Health Of The Urinary Tract

Do you think it’s only women that suffer from urinary tract infections? Wrong again!

While this is also less common in men than women, there’s still an issue to be addressed.

Men over the age of 50 are more likely to suffer from urinary issues, especially if there are underlying prostate problems.

UTIs in men need a doctor’s visit and usually antibiotics. Research on probiotics for preventing UTIs is limited, especially in men.

Cardiovascular Diseases

While there isn’t a supplement or dietary change that can completely erase your risk of cardiovascular diseases, there are things to do that improve your overall heart health.

Some studies suggest certain probiotics may slightly lower cholesterol, but the effect is small and results are mixed.

Diet, exercise, not smoking and, when needed, medication prescribed by your doctor matter far more for heart health.​

Bowel Health

The gut is where probiotics act. A healthy intestine is home to trillions of bacteria that help with digestion and protect against harmful microbes.

Medications such as antibiotics and diet can change this mix.

The causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) aren’t fully understood. Some probiotics have been studied for IBS symptoms with mixed results, so talk to your doctor about what to try.

See a doctor for blood in your stool, unexplained weight loss or a lasting change in bowel habits.​

Hyperbiotics PRO-15 Probiotics

Hyperbiotics was founded by Jamie Morea after her encounter with a parasite called Entamoeba Histolytica.

After recovering, she set out to create her own probiotic.

Hyperbiotics was born.

The company keeps one Indian proverb at the forefront:

“A man with his health has 1000 dreams; a man without it has only one.”

Hyperbiotics PRO-15 is a popular probiotic supplement.

It comes as time-release pearls. The company says pearls deliver more live bacteria than standard capsules, but that claim hasn’t been confirmed by independent research.

Follow the dose on the label. Check the listing for current price and bottle size.

The company highlights its patented BIO-tract pearl technology and long shelf life.

Check The Best Price Here

Pros

This supplement meets our label criteria. Marketing for products like this often mentions weight loss, immune support and energy, but those benefits aren’t proven.

First, the label lists its strains and CFU count. The original formula listed 15 strains and 5 billion CFUs per pearl; check the current label.

Second, the company says its BIO-tract pearls release the bacteria over 8-10 hours to help them survive stomach acid.

Third, the company says its LiveBac process gives an 18-month shelf life. It comes in an opaque bottle; keep it somewhere cool and dry.

There are reasons many shoppers consider this the best probiotic for men, mainly for its clear labeling.

Cons

Some competing products cost less, and like any probiotic it can cause gas or bloating at first.

Hyperbiotics also offers a separate version of their product specifically for children. Some competing products, like Earth’s Pearl Probiotic and Prebiotic, offer an all-in one solution that’s suitable for both adults and children.

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Multi-Strain Probiotic

Not every probiotic contains the same ingredients. If you’re specifically looking for a multi-strain probiotic, we take a look at one of them here.

Many of us believe that bacteria are simply harmful organisms whose sole purpose is to spread disease and cause destruction.

There are, however, some “good” and “helpful” bacteria living in your gut which are vital to maintaining your health. Probiotics are taken to add helpful bacteria, though they usually don’t settle in the gut for long.

Did you know that the word ‘probiotic’ comes from Latin and Greek roots and means “for life”? Gut bacteria play an important role in human health.

A multi-strain probiotic is one which contains a variety of different bacteria. That doesn’t automatically make it more effective than a well-studied single strain. It combines various “helpful” bacteria which perform different tasks in the quest to keep your gut healthy.

What Makes A Good Multi-Strain Probiotic?

When you’re looking for a great multi-strain probiotic, you should consider the following:

It’s important to look at how many different strains they contain as well as which specific types these are.

Some strains perform completely different tasks. The top products will have complimentary strains that perform a myriad of different tasks.

The methods of evaluating probiotics are controversial and many still believe these products can be judged by the number of colony-forming units (CFUs).

Many experts say the specific strains, and the research behind them, matter more than the raw number. Strain choice is what makes a brilliant probiotic.

The reason is that effects are strain-specific.

For example, L. acidophilus, B. longum, B. bifidum, L. fermentum and L. rhamnosus are all common in supplements, but only some strains of each have been tested in people, and for specific uses.

A mix of studied strains may cover more uses, but more strains doesn’t guarantee better results.

The number of colony-forming units (CFUs) still matters, but higher isn’t always better. Doses in studies vary widely, often from 1 billion to 10 billion CFUs or more, depending on the strain and use.

Storage

The way in which the probiotic is stored and delivered is also very important.

Bacteria are living organisms and need to stay alive to work. The container needs to protect them through shipping and on store shelves.

You should look for an offer with a sealed, opaque bottle or container which keeps light, heat, and moisture out and therefore ensures the bacteria survive.

The actual probiotic delivery system is also important. This is the way in which the bacteria actually get to your gut.

Probiotics may come in pill, capsule or pearl form. It’s vital that the casing around the bacteria can protect them from your stomach acid. A very popular way of doing this is by using time-controlled or time-released capsules and pearls.

These are designed to hold together through the stomach and release the bacteria in the intestine, though how well they work varies by product.

Expiration dates are also important in comparing alternative multi-strain probiotics.

They aren’t required by law, but reputable brands include them. They tell you how long the maker expects the bacteria to remain alive.

Dead bacteria won’t do much good, so look for a date and a CFU count guaranteed through that date.

Bio-Kult Advanced Probiotic Multi-Strain Formula

Bio-Kult is an advanced multi strain probiotic. It’s gluten-free and contains 14 different strains.

It’s suitable for both adults and children.

This supplement includes 120 capsules as standard, however, you can also select a version with 60 or 180 capsules.

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Pros And Cons

Let’s see how this product stacks up against our criteria. First off, it contains multiple different strains. These include the previously mentioned strains of L. acidophilus, B. long, B. bifid and L. rhamnose, as well as 10 others.

In terms of CFUs, each capsule contains two billion microorganisms. This is high, but not as high as some competing products.

Some competing products, such as Garden of Life’s men’s probiotic, list as many as 50 billion CFUs per capsule. As we discussed, a higher count isn’t automatically better. Higher doses may cause more gas or bloating at first.

The product also comes in an opaque bottle, packaged inside a cardboard box. This is good for keeping the bacteria alive and well in transport and storage.

The bacteria are freeze-dried, which helps keep them stable in storage.

Bottles carry clear expiration dates.

More About Multi Strain Probiotics

Bio-Kult is a well-known multi-strain probiotic with a wide variety of strains.

Its moderate CFU count may suit people just starting out with probiotics. Mild gas or bloating in the first days is the most common side effect of probiotics in general.

Best Probiotics Brands On The Market

If your digestion seems off lately, diet, stress, illness and medications can all play a part. See a doctor if symptoms last.

Approximately 70% of your immune system is located in the gut lining, according to one review. That doesn’t mean a supplement will prevent colds or other infections; the evidence for that is limited.

The brands below make a range of probiotic products.

Here are some of my favorite probiotics brands for you to try out.

Renew Life

Renew Life is one of my favorite probiotic brands.

Its lineup covers a wide range of CFU counts and prices.

The brand also sells digestive enzymes, fiber and fish oil. “Cleanse” kits aren’t needed; your liver and kidneys clear waste on their own.

Its products are marketed for occasional digestive discomfort.

If you often feel tired and run down, see your doctor rather than relying on a probiotic, since fatigue has many medical causes.

The company says its cultures are lab tested for quality.

Some products use delayed-release capsules.

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Now Foods

Another one of my favorite probiotic brands would definitely have to be “Now Foods”.

They offer a variety of value-priced probiotics.

Not everyone needs a high-count product, and they sell lower-count options too. A lot of their products are vegetarian, reassuring for those following special diets.

If taking multiple bacterial strains is not your thing then try out one of their single strain brands like “Acidophilus Two Billion”.

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Nature’s Bounty

“Nature’s Bounty” is a widely available budget brand with several probiotic options.

Check the listing for current prices.

The brand also sells many other supplements. Remember that supplements aren’t FDA approved and can interact with medicines, so tell your doctor what you take.

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Garden Of Life

The fourth brand on my list is Garden of Life, which sells a wide range of supplements.

Its probiotics are marketed for digestive and colon health.

The company markets them for regular bowel movements and dairy digestion.

The company also says its blend survives stomach and bile acid.

Independent evidence for these specific products is limited, so treat the claims as marketing.

They offer probiotics at several price points, including women’s formulas.

Even if you aren’t interested in probiotics, you can chose from a variety of proteins, vitamins, pre workout, and more.

Your body can digest and absorb nutrients without a probiotic supplement, so there’s no need to buy one just to get the most from other supplements.

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Dr. Tobias

My final probiotic brand has more of the professional customer in mind.

This brand’s probiotic is sold with immune-support claims, which haven’t been proven.

It does this with a few tricks up its sleeve. One being a target release system that allows for the capsule to better reach the lower digestive tract.

The maker says the capsule releases bacteria gradually.

The capsules are marketed as vegetarian. Check the current label for certifications and the listing for return terms.

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Things To Consider About These Brands

So in conclusion, there are plenty of great probiotics brands to choose from.

Whatever your budget, there are options.

As we discussed, not everyone needs fifty-billion cultures. A single, well-studied strain may be all you need, and many healthy people don’t need a probiotic for their digestive tract at all.

If you have a health condition, take medicines or have a weakened immune system, talk to your doctor before starting a probiotic.

How Do I Take Them?

The best way to take probiotics starts with choosing a supplement.

Always buy from a reputable company, and look for third-party testing where you can. A pharmacist can help you compare labels.

Be sure to read the label, as not all manufacturers are the same.

Probiotics are measured by colony-forming units (CFUs), and the amount varies by brand and strain.

There is no single right dose. Follow the label, or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist for a specific use, such as during antibiotics.

Don’t take more than the label says. Gas and bloating are the most common side effects.

People with a weakened immune system or serious illness should not take probiotics without a doctor’s advice, because of the rare risk of serious infection.

If you’re vegetarian or vegan you should also be careful when it comes to selecting a probiotic, as some capsules can have milk proteins or gelatine in them. Always check the label!

How Long Do They Last?

Shelf-stable probiotics can travel with you. For refrigerated products, check the label or ask the maker how long they can stay at room temperature.

What Are Refrigerated Probiotics?

You may be surprised to learn that hundreds of species of bacteria live naturally in your gut. Older estimates put the total at around 100 trillion bacteria in and on your body. A 2016 analysis revised that to about 38 trillion, roughly the same as the number of human cells.

Most of these bacteria are harmless or helpful.

Refrigerated probiotics aren’t automatically better than shelf-stable ones. What matters is the strain, the dose and how the product is stored.

Deciding on which refrigerated probiotics to use can be difficult with the variety available. It’s essential to choose based on your individual requirements.

Understanding what each strain can do for your health is confusing, so here are three refrigerated probiotics worth knowing about.

3 Refrigerated Probiotics

VSL

VSL is a high-potency, multi-strain blend that includes Lactobacillus plantarum. Versions of it have been studied in people with IBS and inflammatory bowel disease, with mixed results.

If you have IBD or IBS, use it only with your gastroenterologist’s advice, not in place of your treatment.

It is shipped cold to keep the bacteria viable. Keep it refrigerated.

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Nutamax Probiotic Supplements

When you’re visiting other countries you may find that your digestive system will become sensitive when consuming certain foods.

This product’s blend includes L. rhamnosus, which some people take when traveling.

Evidence that probiotics prevent traveler’s diarrhea is mixed, and they don’t prevent or treat food poisoning such as Salmonella.

The CDC estimates that about one in six Americans get sick from foodborne illness each year. Safe food and water habits are your best protection when traveling.

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Earth’s Wisdom Probiotic

A positive of this product is it’s 100% natural, vegan, non-GMO, dairy & gluten-free.

If you have allergies or dietary needs, check the full label first.

It includes fermented greens such as barley grass, oat grass, wheat grass and alfalfa. Wheat grass and barley grass are generally gluten-free if harvested before seeds form, but check with the maker if you have celiac disease.

The maker says it uses delayed-release capsules.

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Why Choose Refrigerated Probiotics?

With growing health awareness, people are paying more and more attention to refrigerated probiotic supplements.

If you have an upset stomach that lasts, or you feel run down for weeks, see a doctor rather than self-treating with supplements.

The three products above have different strengths. Pick one based on the strains it contains and how you’ll store it.

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Conclusion

Hyperbiotics PRO-15 Probiotics is my top pick because its label clearly lists strains, CFUs and shelf life.

Probiotics may help with some digestive issues, especially around antibiotic use, but they aren’t a cure-all. Lasting indigestion or fatigue deserves a doctor’s visit, since it can signal other conditions.

If you have a chronic illness, a weakened immune system or take prescription medicines, talk to your doctor before starting any probiotic.

Sources

• Probiotics: Usefulness and Safety, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH)
• Heart Disease Facts, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Symptoms & Causes of Erectile Dysfunction, NIDDK (NIH)
• Revised Estimates for the Number of Human and Bacteria Cells in the Body, PLoS Biology (PMC)