<p>What are <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/probiotics" target="_blank">probiotics</a>? Good bacteria. The human body already has hundreds of varieties living inside, mostly in the gut. The majority of the time, they hum along without an issue, but sometimes illnesses, lifestyle choices, poor diets, and travel can get in the way of our natural bacteria functioning optimally. Keeping the right ratio of good-to-bad bacteria in balance is a great way to stay healthy, and taking probiotics can help. But you don’t have to pop a pill every day to reap the benefits. These days, there are plenty of products on the market with added probiotics (like chocolate granola—more on that below!), so you can keep your gut happy in a variety of different ways. Another way to get a probiotic boost? Incorporate fermented foods with live active cultures, like kimchi and yogurt, into your diet.</p>
<h2>What Are Probiotics?</h2>
<p>Probiotics are live microorganisms that reside in the body, with the highest concentration being in the gut. These bacteria and yeasts are helpful for maintaining a healthy balance of good and bad bacteria in the body. Here are two common strains you’ll often find featured in products that contain probiotics.</p>
<h3>Lactobacillus</h3>
<p>Lactobacillus acidophilus is one of the most common probiotics. It’s a member of the  Lactobacillus genus of bacteria, and its name is derived by what it makes—lactic acid—by producing an enzyme called lactase. Lactase helps break down the sugars found in milk (aka lactose).</p>
<h3>Bifidobacterium</h3>
<p>Known for helping to put up a barrier of protection in your digestive tract, Bifidobacterium is often recommended for those who experience leaky gut syndrome. This strain of probiotic is tough, and can survive in high levels of gastric acid.</p>
<h2>Benefits of Probiotics</h2>
<p>There are all sorts of <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/benefits-of-probiotics" target="_blank">reasons people start taking probiotics</a>, ranging from the general (like just wanting an overall wellness boost) to the specific (like tackling a specific chronic condition or health issue). Here are some of the benefits of probiotics:</p><br>
<ul>
<li>Balances good and bad bacteria in the gut</li>
<li>Supports immunity</li>
<li>Helps your digestive system work better over the long-term</li>
</ul>
<h2>Top 7 Probiotic Foods</h2>
<p>There are lots of foods that are <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/best-probiotic-foods" target="_blank">naturally rich in probiotics</a>, so pick up a few at the grocery store and start incorporating them into your weekly menus.</p><br>
<ul>
<li>Sauerkraut</li>
<li>Yogurt</li>
<li>Sourdough bread</li>
<li>Pickles</li>
<li>Miso soup</li>
<li>Kefir</li>
<li>Kimchi</li>
</ul>
<h2>Top Probiotic Brands</h2>
<p>Thrive Market stocks some of the best probiotic brands around. Here are our top picks.</p>
<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/garden-of-life" target="_blank">Garden of Life</a></h2>
<p>Garden of Life has been around since 1999, and since the company is so fanatical about food, it’s committed to creating holistic formulas that preserve the integrity of each ingredient. Choose from non-GMO vitamins, protein powders, or probiotics to help you feel your best.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/garden-of-life-raw-probiotics-women" target="_blank">Raw Probiotics for Women</a></h3>
<p>Formulated specifically for women, this supplement offers 32 probiotics designed to support digestive function and vaginal health. Each dose delivers vitamins, minerals, and even beneficial prebiotics, too.</p>
<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/essential-formulas-inc" target="_blank">Essential Formulas</a></h2>
<p>This brand was founded after its chairman and CEO traveled through Malaysia in 1997 and experienced an upset stomach after enjoying some regional cuisine. A local doctor recommended a Japanese probiotic, and the company was officially incorporated in 2000 to become a distributor of Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics to the United States.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/essential-formulas-inc-dr-ohhiras-probiotics-formula" target="_blank">Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotics, Original Formula</a></h3>
<p>Modern science meets the artistry of ancient Japanese fermentation in this unique probiotic that requires a three-year fermentation process. Only the strongest bacteria survive, and the blend of 12 strains stays stable without refrigeration.</p>
<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/purely-elizabeth" target="_blank">Purely Elizabeth</a></h2>
<p>Purely Elizabeth started in 2009 after the founder learned about the benefits of superfood ingredients like quinoa, chia seeds, and coconut oil. Little-known ancient grains are the backbone of the brand’s popular products you can enjoy on the daily.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/purely-elizabeth-chocolate-sea-salt-probiotic-granola" target="_blank">Chocolate Sea Salt Probiotic Granola</a></h3>
<p>Chocolate gets even better with a gut-friendly version that includes a patented strain of probiotics known as GanedenBC30, which has a protective spore that can survive the baking process. The resulting granola is gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO, and made with wholesome ingredients like oats, seeds, plus just a touch of coconut sugar for sweetness.</p>
<h2>You Might Like</h2>
<p>For all things probiotic, just browse our blog.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/what-are-probiotics" target="_blank">What Are Probiotics?</a></h3>
<p>From its Greek roots to modern applications, learn all about the history of probiotics and how they might be beneficial in your daily routine.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/the-benefits-of-probiotics-for-women" target="_blank">The Benefits of Probiotics for Women</a></h3>
<p>Curious about adding probiotics to your diet? Find out the benefits of this daily supplement—specifically for women—plus the best products to add to your rotation.</p>
<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/raw-probiotic-chocolate-bar-recipe" target="_blank">Raw Probiotic Chocolate Bar Recipe</a></h3>
<p>Here’s how to whip up an energizing snack that’ll help you refuel with a little bit of chocolate, plus other savory and sweet ingredients like almond butter and maple syrup. The raw probiotic powder adds extra digestive support.</p>

Adding probiotics to your diet has been made easy with Thrive Market's ingredient lists. Shop all probiotic products here.

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms—housed primarily in the gut—believed to support immunity and digestion. Shop our selects for a daily dose of good bacteria. 

Probiotic Foods & Supplements

Gluten-Free

Vegetarian

Vegan

Paleo

Organic

Ketogenic

Low FODMAP

AIP Diet

Whole30® Compatible

Mediterranean Diet

Plant-Based Perfection: How to Make a Vegan Burger

Keto vs. Atkins

6 Gluten-Free Recipes & Pantry Staples This Member Can’t Live Without

Shop By

Food

Vitamins & Supplements

Meat & Seafood

Home

Bath & Body

Babies & Kids

Beauty

What's New

2 Paleo Recipes That Bring Out the Best in Our Thrive Market Avocado Honey

How To Cook Spatchcock Chicken

Top Rated

Thrive Market Goods

Non-GMO

Big 9 Allergen-Free

Certified Organic

Certified Gluten-Free

Staff Picks

Bestsellers

Protein Picks

On-The-Go Snacks & Bars

Spring Picks

Family Favorites

Healthy, Nostalgic Bites

Charcuterie Essentials

Trending Now

Pantry

Frozen

Wine

Health

Personal Care

Household

Beef

Poultry

Pork

Seafood

Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings 2 Ways: Air-Fried and Baked

Easy Salmon Recipes

Baking

Canned & Packaged Foods

Cereals & Granolas

Condiments & Sauces

Ghee, Oils & Vinegars

Grains, Pasta & Bread

Honey & Sweeteners

Nut Butters & Fruit Spreads

Soups, Meals & Side Dishes

Spices, Seasoning & Salt

Our Baking Supplies

What’s New

9 Pumpkin Spice Recipes to Make This Fall

Minimize Food Waste by Getting Strategic

Whole30 Approved®

Non-GMO Project Verified

Dairy-Free

Bars

Candy & Chocolate

Snacks

Snacks, Bars & Treats

Cocktail Mixers

Coconut Water

Coffee

Coffee Creamer

Functional & Energy Drinks

Hot Chocolate

Juice & Nectar

Kids' Drinks

Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Plant Based Milk

Protein Drinks

Smoothie & Drink Mixes

Sodas & Sparkling Juices

Water & Sparkling Water

Beverages

Ethically Sourced

Certified Kosher

Certified Fairly Traded

Sustainably Farmed

Caffeine-Free

Appetizers & Snacks

Frozen Bread & Dough

Breakfast Foods

Frozen Desserts

Frozen Fruit & Vegetables

Meals

Frozen Meat & Seafood

Pasta

Pizza

Plant-Based Meat & Seafood

Prepared Meat & Seafood

Bundle & Save

Pasture-Raised

Sustainably Caught

Free-Range

Made in USA

Family-Owned Business

Grass-Fed

No Antibiotics / Synthetic Hormones

Cider & Hard Pressed Juice

Red Wine

Sparkling

White Wine & Rosé

3 Ways to Cook With Leftover Wine

Red Wine Hot Cacao Recipe

Baby & Kids' Food

Baby & Kids' Health

Baby & Kids' Snacks

Diapering

Moms & Maternity

7 Quick, Easy, Fun, and Healthy Recipes to Cook With Your Kids

Our Diapers & Wipes

Healthy Homeschool Snacks for Every Craving

Dye- and Color Additive-Free

Fragrance-Free

Phthalate-Free

Health Concerns

Herbs & Homeopathy

Sports Nutrition

Dishwashing

Home Fragrance

Household Cleaners

Kitchen Supplies

Laundry

Paper Products

Potting Soil & Fertilizer

Storage & Organization

BPA-Free

Essential Oils

Paraben-Free

Cat Food & Treats

Dog Food & Treats

Pet Care

Best Sellers

How to Prep for a New Dog or Cat

10 Nontoxic Pet-Friendly Cleaning Products

Grain-Free

Soy-Free

Exclusives

Gift Guide

Gift Cards

Gift Boxes

Gifts