Choosing Probiotics for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

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.

How to choose a probiotic supplement for IBS:

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.