Chances are, you’ve heard about the importance of gut health. You may have even sipped on kombucha or noshed on yogurt in the name of nourishing your gut microbiome. And while some health trends are a bit inflated—in this case, the hype is well-deserved. That’s because nourishing your gut microbiome isn’t just about supporting digestion or easing bloat (although those are two really great benefits), it actually impacts your overall health.
Vogue’s Favorite Gut Health Supplements
In fact, “a healthy gut also supports your metabolism, immune system, mental health, and overall well-being,” explains Maggie Moon, RD, a registered dietitian and author of The MIND Diet: 2nd Edition. And while a well-balanced diet along with healthy lifestyle choices can do wonders to benefit your gut health (more on that later), a gut health supplement may also offer the support you need.
Below, we’ve consulted experts and gathered information on the best supplements for gut health—their benefits, what to look for, and the ten best options to try.
In This Story
- How can you improve your gut health?
- What ingredients support a healthy gut?
- Do you really need supplements to heal your gut?
- What are the signs of an unhealthy gut?
- Do gut health supplements actually work?
- How We Tested
- Meet The Experts
Best Overall: Daily Nouri Hormone Balance Probiotic with Prebiotics
- Why We Love It: This turmeric supplement came highly recommended by Renee Korczak, PhD, a registered dietician, speaker, and researcher. “I love that this company has developed a line of supplements for all ages and stages of life. They understand the unique needs of their consumers and how to support the gut microbiome with science-backed probiotic strains,” she says, noting that the supplement features a unique blend of seven probiotic strains, to support gut and hormone health. What’s more, the formula features additional gut-supporting ingredients, like omega-3 fatty acids.
- Key Ingredients: Omega blend, probiotics, tetraphage blend
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: One capsule
- Number of Servings: 30
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| Combines probiotic strains and prebiotics, targeted for unique ages, | Nothing to note |
Best Synbiotic: Ritual Synbiotic+
- Why We Love It: To support a healthy gut microbiome, both probiotics and prebiotics are crucial. That’s why a synbiotic supplement, like Ritual’s Synbiotic+, can be a great choice for nourishing the gut. It’s touted as a three-in-one supplement, because in addition to its two strains of probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis) and its prebiotic blend, it also features the postbiotic Tributyrin. Moon appreciates that the product is currently being studied via a clinical trial for gut health and mood in women.
- Editor’s Experience: “Ritual’s Synbiotic+ is my go-to for overall gut health. I’m only on year two of my supplement journey, and these have been integral to my consistency. One tasteless capsule a day means I have no excuse not to take it. Since, I notice my stomach gets unsettled less and I’m more regular. Bless!” —Kiana Murden, beauty editor, shopping
- Key Ingredients: Probiotics (Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG), Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis BB-12), prebiotics (PreforPro®), posbiotic (Tributyrin)
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Number of Servings: 30
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| Three-in-one supplement streamlines regimen | Price adds up with consistent use |
| Non-GMO Project Verified, Clean Label Project Certified, vegan |
Best Multivitamin with Probiotics: Seed DM-02 Daily Multivitamin
- Why We Love It: You may be familiar with Seed’s ultra-popular synbiotic supplement; and while we’re fans of that one too, their newly-launched multivitamin is worth highlighting. It’s rare for a multi to feature ingredients specifically for the microbiome, but this supplement has it all: 100% of the daily value of 20 essential vitamins and minerals in bioactive forms, plus a gut-supporting formula with pre- and postbiotics. “What sets it apart is that it provides bioavailable forms of all its nutrients, and uses a validated process to ensure actives make it to the gut microbiome,” says Moon. “I appreciate that Seed is testing its final formulations, which is a direction more supplements should be taking.”
- Key Ingredients: Vitamins and minerals, microbiome blend, cellular energy complex
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Number of Servings: 30
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| Combines multivitamin and gut health benefits into one convenient capsule | Effects may be subtle relative to targeted gut supplements |
| Bioavailable, vegan, gluten-tested, no preservatives |
Best Probiotic: Align 24/7 Digestive Support
- Why We Love It: Align probiotics came highly recommended by many of the experts we surveyed. Dr. Korczak loves that this specific supplement contains Bifidobacterium longum 35624, which is a specific strain that may be helpful for digestive health—particularly bowel improvements for those who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and associated symptoms such as gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort.
- Key Ingredients: Probiotics (Bifidobacterium longum)
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: One capsule
- Number of Servings: 28
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| High strain diversity, research-backed, delayed-release design | Single-strain, limited microbiome diversity support |
Best Prebiotic: Thorne FiberMend
- Why We Love It: Prebiotic-rich foods can help feed the good bacteria in your gut, leading to a healthier microbiome, explains Davar. You can also get this gut-friendly perk from a supplement with prebiotic fiber, like this one from Thorne, which contains a soluble fiber blend that is easy to digest (which means no unwanted bloating, cramping, or gas that sometimes results from fiber supplements).
- Key Ingredients: Pectin, green tea phytosome, arabinogalactan
- Form: Powder
- Serving Size: One scoop
- Number of Servings: 30
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|---|---|
| Gentle prebiotic fiber, supports regularity, neutral taste | Can cause bloating |
| Requires slow introduction |
Best Digestive Enzymes: Pure Encapsulations Digestive Enzymes Ultra
- Why We Love It: “Digestive enzymes can help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, improving nutrient absorption,” says Davar. She personally recommends Pure Encapsulations digestive enzyme, a dietary supplement that has vegetarian enzymes that help support the digestive system—including ones that are specifically helpful for anyone who experiences bloating or digestive discomfort when they eat dairy.
- Key Ingredients: Enzyme blend (protease, amylase, and lactase, among others)
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: Two capsules
- Number of Servings: 90
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| Broad enzyme blend, supports digestion, hypoallergenic | Not microbiome-supporting, meal-dependent benefits |
Best for Inflammation: Garden of Life Organics Extra Strength Turmeric
- Why We Love It: Davar notes that inflammation in the body can wreak havoc on the gut, which is why taking a supplement with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (like turmeric and ginger) can be a wonderful addition to your routine. Davar says this supplement, in particular, is great for anyone who deals with a sensitive stomach, plus it contains probiotics, for extra gut-nourishing benefits.
- Key Ingredients: Turmeric, black pepper, ginger, probiotic blend
- Form: Tablet
- Serving Size: One tablet
- Number of Servings: 60
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| Anti-inflammatory, organic, great for stomach sensitivity | Pills are on the larger side |
Best L-Glutamine: Now Foods Supplements, L-Glutamine
- Why We Love It: L-Glutamine is “an amino acid that nourishes and repairs the intestinal lining,” Davar says, which is why she often recommends it to patients dealing with gut health challenges. This amino acid is also incredibly beneficial for immune support, among other important functions in the body.
- Key Ingredients: L-Glutamine
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: One capsule
- Number of Servings: 120
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| Supports gut lining, lower cost, versatile | Structural support only, health benefits vary |
Best Postbiotic Supplement: Microbiome Labs PyloGuard
- Why We Love It: When probiotic bacteria consume prebiotics, they produce a bioactive compound known as postbiotics (yep, there’s a whole lot going on in your gut you probably didn’t realize). And, in some cases, it may be beneficial to supplement with a postbiotic itself, as it can, “directly support the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are crucial for colon health,” says Davar, who recommends this option from Microbiome Labs.
- Key Ingredients: Postbiotic (Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM17648)
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: One capsule
- Number of Servings: 30
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| Targeted postbiotic, H. pylori support, shelf-stable | Mixed results from customers, niche use |
Best for Women’s Health: OPositiv Women’s Probiotic
- Why We Love It: Women’s health is so often neglected and left out of the equation (think: research, health-care, etc.), which is why we love that this supplement is specifically designed to address our needs. The formula is advertised as a four-in-one, featuring ten different clinically-studied probiotic strains with 20 billion CFUs that promote gut, skin, oral, and even vaginal health. Plus, it has bonus ingredients like licorice and dandelion root to help ease bloat and support digestion.
- Key Ingredients: Lactobacillus plantarum, Bacillus coagulans, Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium longum
- Form: Capsule
- Serving Size: 1 capsule
- Number of Servings: 30
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| Women-focused supplement powered by a multi-strain, whole-body approach, | Limited clinical validation |
| 30-day moneyback guarantee | Modest effects for some |
Everything You Need to Know
How can you improve your gut health?
“Nourishing the biodiversity of healthy bacteria in the gut and supporting their optimal function is key to improving gut health,” says Moon. But how, exactly? The first step is nutrition: “Eat a balanced diet with enough fiber and polyphenols to nourish and defend your gut microbiome, plus plenty of living probiotics,” she says, “which translates to eating colorful fruits and vegetables, lots of whole grains, seafood, and fermented foods.” Plus, it can also be helpful to minimize sugar and processed foods, to keep inflammation at bay.
Your lifestyle choices can also play a major role in the state of your gut health. “Find ways to be physically active, manage stress, have good sleep hygiene, and avoid smoking or chronic drug and alcohol use,” says Moon. “These lifestyle factors reduce inflammaging that can lead to microbiome imbalances.”.
What ingredients support a healthy gut?
Again, eating a healthy, well-rounded diet can do wonders to support your gut health. That includes prebiotic-rich foods like garlic, onions, asparagus, and green bananas, which feed good bacteria in your gut, says Davar. She also recommends eating probiotic foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut. “Polyphenol-rich ingredients found in wild berries like currants, blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, green tea, and dark chocolate act as antioxidants and fuel for gut bacteria,” she says, while, “Omega-3 fatty acids from fatty fish and flaxseeds are remarkably beneficial for lowering gut inflammation and improving the integrity of the gut barrier.” Lastly, herbs such as berberine and oregano oil, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, can be beneficial, says Davar.
As far as supplementation goes, there are a few key options worth considering:
- Probiotics: Probiotics are live microorganisms or bacteria that support your gut. Different strains can have varying health benefits in the body, but overall, “clinically studied probiotic strains, especially those that produce butyrate, help regulate metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation,” says Moon.
- Prebiotics and Fiber: “Fiber and polyphenols act as prebiotics or food for good gut bacteria,” says Moon. While you can increase your prebiotic and fiber intake from food sources, a supplement can be a convenient way to reap the benefits — you’ll often find this in a powdered form.
- Postbiotics: Postbiotics are the bioactive compound that results from probiotics digesting prebiotics, and they can be incredibly beneficial to your gut health. These can result from taking either of the latter gut health supplements, or taking a postbiotic (like butyrate) directly.
- Digestive Enzymes: These are proteins which help break down food into smaller, more manageable components that can be absorbed. While they’re naturally present in the body, some people have trouble producing enough (such as individuals with lactose intolerance) — that’s why a digestive enzyme supplement can be helpful.
- Various Vitamins: “Vitamin A and vitamin D are essential to the integrity of the gut lining,” says Moon, “which is a barrier that prevents harmful substances from entering the blood stream.” You can get these nutrients through food or supplementation.
- Omega-3: “Anti-inflammatory bioactives like omega-3 fatty acids and flavonoids help defend the gut against everyday wear-and-tear as well as stronger insults,” says Moon.
- Turmeric: “As a longevity nutritionist, I love recommending turmeric supplements for their scientifically-backed health benefits,” says Davar. “I also recommend it for gut health, as curcumin supports gut lining integrity and promotes a healthy balance of gut bacteria.”
Do you really need supplements to heal your gut?
“Food and daily dietary intake come first, but supplements can be a strong ally when used strategically,” says Davar. A healthy diet can certainly help your gut, but for anyone with nutrient deficiencies, issues with the integrity of your gut lining, or an imbalance in gut bacteria, “targeted supplements like probiotics, L-glutamine, or berberine might speed up healing. They’re tools, not shortcuts, and only work if paired with smart lifestyle changes.”
Moon shares this sentiment, noting that the question of whether or not to take supplements always depends on your starting point. “Given the stats on the standard American diet and rates of lifestyle-related diseases, it’s obvious many of us would benefit from strategic supplementation for gut health,” she says.
However, “my bigger dream is to get us all to a better starting place through food diversity and a healthy lifestyle,” she adds. “Maybe we could aim for a little of both until we get there?”
What are the signs of an unhealthy gut?
Since gut health is so integral to overall health, the signs of an unhealthy gut can range widely, “from gastrointestinal distress in the form of gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and cramping, to signs that may surprise people like skin, sleep, mood, fatigue and autoimmune issues,” says Moon.
Davar notes that she uses a comprehensive symptom checklist when evaluating clients. These include: persistent bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, or heartburn; as well as less obvious symptoms like skin issues (eczema, acne, rosacea, dr itch skin), chronic fatigue, mucus, snoring, frequent colds, sugar cravings, and mood disturbances like irritability, PMS, anxiety or depression. “Food intolerances, difficulty losing weight, hair loss, brittle nails, and joint pain can also signal gut dysfunction,” she says. “These symptoms often indicate underlying issues such as dysbiosis (imbalance in gut bacteria), leaky gut, or inflammation.”
At the end of the day, if you’re concerned about potential issues, listen to your gut (pun intended) and seek the help of a healthcare provider before making drastic changes to your diet or supplement routine.
Do gut health supplements actually work?
“Whether probiotic supplements will improve gut health depends on the individual, the strain, and what condition you’re targeting,” explains Moon, noting that the most consistent data shows probiotic supplements may help with antibiotic-related diarrhea and IBS, while mixed results show benefits for IBD and high cholesterol.
Moon also notes that, in theory, gut health supplements are best used for maintenance and prevention in healthy people—of course, in that case, it can be hard to know if they’re “working” since you’re already starting with a good baseline. Nevertheless, while these supplements are by no means a magic pill, they may be a tool to help support gut health and, therefore, overall health. Unsure? Consulting your healthcare provider is always a great first step.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue’s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to dietitians—to gain professional acumen on the industry’s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to gut health supplements, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: ingredients, probiotic strains, form, serving size, certification, dietary notes, and the wellness concerns they address. To do this, we paired expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet The Experts
- Maggie Moon, RD, is a Los Angeles-based registered dietitian and author of The MIND Diet: 2nd Edition
- Ella Davar, RD, registered dietician, Founder of Gut-Brain Method
- Renee Korczak, PhD, RD, is a registered dietician, speaker, and researcher
