Often characterized by symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, gas, and bloating, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is one of the most commonly diagnosed digestive disorders.

It can also be difficult to manage symptoms, and treatment typically involves making modifications to your diet and lifestyle.

Some research suggests that probiotics — a type of beneficial bacteria found in the digestive tract — could help alleviate symptoms of IBS and promote regularity.

However, with so many supplements to choose from, figuring out which probiotic is right for you can be challenging.

Our editors and dietitians reviewed the best probiotics on the market to determine which ones are worth considering for people with IBS.

The products included in this article were selected based on the following criteria:

  • Probiotic strain: All the products on our list use probiotic strains that have evidence to support their effectiveness in managing symptoms of IBS.
  • Ingredient quality: We looked for products made with high quality ingredients and are free from fillers, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.
  • Manufacturing standards: We included brands that adhere to current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
  • Vetting: All the products included were vetted to ensure they meet Healthline’s medical and business standards.

There are several factors to consider when shopping for a probiotic for IBS, including:

  • CFU count: The term colony forming units (CFUs) refers to the amount of live bacteria that a supplement contains. Most probiotics contain at least 1–10 billion CFUs per serving, but some may have more.
  • Composition: Look for a probiotic containing strains of bacteria that have been studied specifically for IBS, such as Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium infantis.
  • Intended use: Some probiotics may be better suited for specific types of IBS, such as IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), IBS with constipation (IBS-C), or IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M).
  • Storage needs: While most probiotics are shelf-stable, some strains are more sensitive to heat and moisture and may require refrigeration.
  • Quality testing: Because dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA the same way that medications are, it’s important to choose probiotic supplements that are tested, ideally by a third-party lab, to make sure the contents match the label.

Probiotic supplements may be beneficial for managing IBS, as they help balance gut bacteria and may reduce symptoms like bloating, gas, and irregular bowel movements. However, individual needs can vary, so it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to determine if a probiotic, and which strain, is right for you.

The best probiotic supplement for IBS is ideally one that contains evidence-backed strains like Lactobacillus plantarum, Bifidobacterium infantis, or Lactobacillus acidophilus.

Side effects of probiotics for IBS are generally mild and may include bloating, gas, or changes in bowel habits, especially when starting the supplement. These symptoms usually resolve as the body adjusts.

Depending on the strains included, probiotic supplements may be helpful in managing symptoms of IBS, such as gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea.

When looking for a probiotic that meets your needs, be sure to consider the CFU count, composition, storage needs, and intended use.

In addition to using the list above as a starting point, talk with a healthcare professional to find the product that’s best for you.