Probiotics are live microorganisms that live in our bodies and provide many health benefits, like supporting digestion, the immune system, oral health, skin health, urinary system health, and mental health.
Probiotic bacteria are found in many foods and drinks, with yogurt being the most popular one. And that’s where the problems for vegans set in, as they can’t eat yogurt, and most of the probiotic supplements are actually derived from dairy.
So, are probiotics vegan? Well, they can be.
There are some fermented plant-based foods and beverages such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. Many available non-dairy capsules are derived from these sources, and it seems like the vegan probiotics supplements are just as good as their dairy-derived counterparts.
One of the best probiotics out there is a yeast called Saccharomyces boulardii. Yeasts can survive a low percentage of alcohol (such as beers or wine), and they are not affected by antibiotics. S. Boulardi can also tolerate the acidic environment of our stomachs, and is very heat stable, which makes it perfect for traveling.
Capsules of probiotics vegan supplements should tell you how many live cells there are in each one. Look for a CFU (colony-forming unit) count, as it estimates the number of live probiotics in your vegan probiotic supplement.
Our Favorite Vegan Probiotics Supplements, Reviewed
If you are looking for the best vegan probiotics, we have you covered. Our detailed review found the top six choices, including supplements, foods, and beverages. Read on to find out all about them.
Best S. Boulardii Supplement
Klaire Labs S. Boulardii
This powerful probiotic is packed in a container with 120 capsules. The recommended serving is one capsule, and each one is estimated at 3 billion CFU.
As we mentioned, S. boulardii is a yeast that’s very thermotolerant, acid-resistant, and shelf-stable. Studies show that this microorganism has the potential to inhibit harmful bacteria in your gastrointestinal system, improve digestion, boost immune function, reduce diarrhea, and more.
Klaire Labs S. Boulardii is based on plant cellulose and contains no allergens such as milk, fish, eggs, nuts, gluten, or soy.
Best Vegan Probiotic Blend
Ora Organic Probiotic Capsules
This vegan prebiotic and probiotic blend is excellent for people with sensitive stomachs, as it is specifically made to address those issues. One package has 60 easy-to-swallow capsules with a CFU of 16 billion.
Ora Organic Probiotic supplement is perfect for people looking for organic vegan probiotics, as it contains prebiotic fibers from organic tapioca and organic Jerusalem artichoke. There are also six probiotic strains, including Lactobacillus. However, these bacteria are grown in plant-based cultures and not dairy.
Best Chewable Vegan Probiotics
LifeCentric Probiotics Gummies
LifeCentric Probiotic Gummies with strawberry and orange flavor are ideal for kids and adults who prefer chewing probiotics. The container holds 100 gummies bears, which is a total of 50 servings.
The gummies are sugar-free and have 5 billion CFU of Bacillus coagulans. They can help reduce bloating, gas, and even result in clearer skin. In addition, these supplements help to maintain a healthy gut and support your immune system health.
LifeCentric Probiotic Gummies are made in the US, and they contain no animal products, GMOs, preservatives, or artificial colors.
Best Vegan Probiotic for Women
Wholesome Wellness Women’s Raw Probiotic Blend
If you are looking for an all-in-one blend of probiotics for women, Wholesome Wellness has the perfect supplement. This formulation boasts a CFU of 100 billion, with 34 different strains of probiotics. In addition, it contains five types of prebiotics, digestive enzymes, a raw blend of organic fruits and veggies, and an extract mix for urinary tract health.
Because this probiotic contains digestive enzymes and prebiotics, taking it before a meal will maximize its potential. Wholesome Wellness claims that Women’s Raw Probiotic Blend is particularly effective for women over 40, as it can help them with digestive problems, mental health, sleep, and more.
Best Vegan Meal Replacement Powder With Probiotics
Ka’Chava Meal Replacement Shake
Ka’Chava is an awesome meal replacement that contains over 70 plant-based ingredients and nutrients. It’s supposed to fill you up with proteins, fiber, vitamins, antioxidants, adaptogens, probiotics, and other vital nutrients while maintaining a low caloric content.
We researched this excellent meal replacement powder before, so feel free to take a look at our detailed Ka’Chava review and find out what makes it so great.
Best Kombucha
Health-Ade Kombucha
Kombucha is one of the most popular probiotic drinks. Health-Ade Kombucha is made with just four ingredients – water, tea, sugar, and a probiotic kombucha culture.
This bubbly probiotic tea contains cold-pressed juice of organic fruits and veggies. The flavors include tropical punch, pink lady apple, ginger-lemon, pomegranate, watermelon, passion fruit-tangerine, and there are also variety packs of your favorite flavors.
Health-Ade Kombucha is certified USDA organic, Non-GMO Project verified, certified RAW, certified vegan, and certified gluten-free.
Editor’s note: we are regularly updating this review. If you see any problems, weird interpretations of the data, or just want to say hi, please reach out to hello@the-unwinder.com.