Thorne Complete Biotic Review
Complete Biotic is a clinically-backed combination of a prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic, delivered in a convenient fast-melt powder with a refreshing orange flavor. Each packet is a single-serve stick pack. The page describes one stick pack taken each day as providing extensive support for a healthy microbiome, with well-studied biotics to benefit bowel regularity, stool consistency, intestinal comfort, and the growth of beneficial bacteria in favor of less beneficial bacteria. The stated key ingredients are Heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum at 25 mg, PreforPro at 15 mg, and Bacillus subtilis at 3.3 mg per packet. The product is listed as supporting normal bowel movements, promoting regularity and improving bowel transit time for individuals with occasional constipation, supporting normal stool consistency, improving GI discomfort in adults and children, providing support for indigestion, and decreasing a sour taste in the mouth. It is also said to favor growth of beneficial gut flora, promote beneficial butyrate-producing bacterial strains, support a balanced inflammatory response in the GI tract, benefit both the small and large intestines, and maintain balanced levels of sIgA to support gut immune health. The page names three groups who may benefit: individuals with occasional diarrhea or constipation, adults with gas, bloating, or other digestive discomfort, and children in a daycare setting. A timeline is offered: after two weeks, support for normal stool consistency; after one month, increased good bacteria and easing of minor intestinal cramping; after two months, support for GI immune function in children in group settings; and after three months, support for overall quality of life and emotional wellness. Features listed are great taste, fast-melt delivery, single-serve packaging, and well-researched ingredients. Thorne states the product is third-party tested and certified to verify that contents match the label and contain no unsafe levels of heavy metals, pesticides, and microorganisms. The page says the formula is dairy free, gluten free, and soy free, and is vegan and vegetarian-friendly. The directions say adults and children over four years should take one stick pack daily by opening it, pouring it directly on the tongue, and swallowing, with no water required. The warnings say the product is contraindicated in people with a history of hypersensitivity to any ingredient, that pregnant people should consult a health-care practitioner, and that there are no known adverse interactions at publication date. The FAQ explains that the Bacillus subtilis DE11 spore-forming probiotic is not destroyed by stomach acid, that PreforPro is a bacteriophage designed to reach the intestines, and that the heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum is stable in harsh environments. It also explains that maltodextrin is a carrier and that the sweeteners are present in small amounts, although people sensitive to sugar alcohols may wish to consult their provider.
Product Focus: Digestion and BloatingRanked among:ProbioticsProbiotics for gut healthProbiotics for bloating
Tier ⓘ
Tier 2 · Rank 5
Tier 2 · Researched. Human studies show improvement in an aging-related function or a specific goal, and the reviews agree. Rank 5 within Tier 2 for Digestion and Bloating; 5 of 43 overall. Tiers run from 1, the strongest evidence, to 5. How we grade →
Evidence ⓘ
78 /100
How strongly the evidence says this product works: human studies count most, then real reviews, then our biohacker panel.
Positive Reviews
89% of 977
Biohacker Mentions
6 of 10
Cost per month
$46
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Study, Trial or Testing Result Summary
Members Only113 human studies · 77 improved
113 human studies77 improved15 no effect51,706 people studied
The main ingredient at a full dose is heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum. A pooled analysis of trials with 3,154 people with irritable bowel syndrome found it beat placebo and ranked best for quality of life [1]. An earlier pooled analysis of 10 trials found less pain and gas [2]. In a trial of 200 adults with diarrhea-type irritable bowel, live or heat-treated forms cut symptom scores far more than placebo over 12 weeks [3]. Results are not uniform. A trial of 251 adults found no change in symptom severity [4], and a pooled analysis found this bacteria alone did not increase bowel movements in constipation [5]. Bacillus subtilis is present at only a trace amount, well below the dose that helped in studies, where it eased bloating and gas in some trials [6] but not in others [7]. PreforPro, a blend of bacteria-targeting viruses, has an unclear dose and no direct human studies for digestion; the studies on file tested other products [8]. Animal and cell studies are never counted.
See all 113 studies →Hide the studies
- In 91 trials with 13,680 patients, adding probiotics to standard Helicobacter pylori treatment cut side effects such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and bloating, and Bifidobacterium longum ranked highest for clearing the infection.Efficacy of probiotics regimens for Helicobacter pylori eradication: A systematic review, pairwise, and network meta-ana…
- Across 82 trials of 10,332 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, some probiotics eased symptoms such as pain and bloating compared with placebo, but confidence in the evidence was low to very low for most results.Efficacy of Probiotics in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
- Across 81 trials of 9,253 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, several specific probiotic strains and mixtures beat placebo for symptom severity, quality of life, abdominal pain, and bloating, though the benefit varied by strain and by outcome.Outcome-Specific Efficacy of Different Probiotic Strains and Mixtures in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Systematic Review a…
- In trials with 3,154 people with irritable bowel syndrome, Bifidobacterium longum beat placebo and ranked best for quality of life.Comparative effectiveness and safety of probiotics with psychotropic potential in mental health benefits in irritable bo…
- In 29 trials with 3,122 children on Helicobacter pylori treatment, probiotics reduced side effects overall, and mixes containing Bifidobacterium longum ranked best for less diarrhea and constipation.Efficacy and safety of probiotic-supplemented triple therapy for eradication of Helicobacter pylori in children: a syste…
- In 21 trials with 1,807 children with functional abdominal pain, probiotics reduced pain overall, and Bifidobacterium longum DM8504 was among the most effective strains.Comparative efficacy of probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic interventions in children with functional abdominal pain dis…
- In a pooled analysis of 10 trials in people with irritable bowel syndrome, probiotics containing Bifidobacterium longum reduced pain and flatulence scores compared with placebo.Effect of probiotic species on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms: A bring up to date meta-analysis.
- In a pooled analysis of 15 trials in adults with constipation, Bifidobacterium longum alone did not increase bowel movements per week, while multi-strain probiotics did.Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials of the effects of probiotics on functional constipation in adults.
- Pooled trials across eight gut diseases found probiotics beneficial overall, including for irritable bowel syndrome, though some species such as Lactobacillus acidophilus showed no benefit.A meta-analysis of probiotic efficacy for gastrointestinal diseases.
- In a review of trials in healthy infants, formula with Bifidobacterium longum BL999 had no effect on the outcomes measured.To add or not to add probiotics to infant formulae? An updated systematic review.
- In a review of trials in children with abdominal pain or constipation, no evidence supported Bifidobacterium longum alone or in a mix.Effectiveness of Probiotics in Children With Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders and Functional Constipation: A Systemat…
- In three winter trials of healthy volunteers (237, 234 and 250 people), synbiotic blends improved bowel function, with less bloating and more regular movements, and shortened and eased respiratory infections compared with placebo.A new chance of preventing winter diseases by the administration of synbiotic formulations.
- In 438 children taking meds, Lactobacillus plantarum LP299V during meds and for a week after did not reduce loose stools (39% vs 44.5% on placebo) or abdominal symptoms compared with placebo.Read the study on PubMed (28438377) →
- In 302 adults with occasional abdominal discomfort and bloating who were not patients, a probiotic taken for 4 weeks did not lower symptom severity more than placebo, but it did give more bloating-free days.Multi-Center, Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Study to Evaluate the Benefit of the Probioti…
- In 300 healthy adults with hard stools and irregular bowel movements, 30 days of either probiotic blend increased weekly bowel movements and eased stool consistency and bloating compared with placebo.The use of probiotics in healthy volunteers with evacuation disorders and hard stools: a double-blind, randomized, place…
- In 295 adults starting iron tablets for iron deficiency anaemia, taking Lactobacillus plantarum 299v during the first month cut stomach side effects and treatment stopping, and iron levels rose more over three months.Improved gastrointestinal tolerance and iron status via probiotic use in iron deficiency anaemia patients initiating ora…
- In 285 adults with non-diarrheal irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of a probiotic (Bacillus subtilis plus Streptococcus faecium) with mosapride gave adequate symptom relief in about 54-55% versus 35% on placebo.Efficacy of combination therapy with probiotics and mosapride in patients with IBS without diarrhea: a randomized, doubl…
- In 251 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, taking this bacteria for 8 weeks did not change symptom severity more than placebo, though quality of life in emotional well-being and social functioning improved compared with the start.Efficacy of Lactobacillus paracasei HA-196 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175 in Alleviating Symptoms of Irritable Bowel S…
- In 246 pelvic cancer patients getting radiation, a two-strain probiotic did not significantly lower overall moderate-to-severe diarrhea versus placebo, but at 60 days more patients on the standard dose were free of it (35% vs 17%).A randomized double-blind controlled trial: impact of probiotics on diarrhea in patients treated with pelvic radiation.
- In 216 adults with functional constipation, adding Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium capsules to lactulose did not significantly improve effective rates over lactulose alone (87.5% vs 81.25% at 28 days).[Efficacies of lactulose plus live combined Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium capsules in the treatment of func…
- In 214 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, one capsule daily of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v for 4 weeks lowered pain and bloating more than placebo, and 78.1% rated the effect excellent or good versus 8.1% on placebo.Clinical trial: Lactobacillus plantarum 299v (DSM 9843) improves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
- In 200 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, live or heat-treated B. longum CECT 7347 taken daily for 12 weeks cut symptom scores by about 174 to 178 points versus 60 with placebo.A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of live Bifidobacterium longum C…
- In 200 adults with non-constipated irritable bowel syndrome, a two-strain probiotic for 84 days gave more overall improvement than placebo and lowered pain and distension, with the first gain seen at day 28 (19.3% vs 8.9% responders).Probiotic Blend of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5 and Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. Lactis BB-12 in Non-constipated Irri…
- In healthy newborn formula-fed infants, a formula with added milk oligosaccharides plus a probiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum supported normal growth and gave more frequent, softer stools than standard formula, but colic was higher in the milk oligosaccharide group without the probiotic.Growth and safety evaluation of infant formulae containing oligosaccharides derived from bovine milk: a randomized, doub…
- In 150 adults with functional constipation, Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 (2 billion spores) plus lactulose daily for 4 weeks improved stool consistency and reduced incomplete evacuation and pain sooner than lactulose alone, though stool frequency was not significantly different by the end.Effect of Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 with Lactulose on Functional Constipation in Adults: a Double-Blind Placebo Cont…
- In 141 children aged 4-12 with irritable bowel syndrome, Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 once daily for 8 weeks reduced pain, bloating, gas and straining and improved stool consistency more than placebo.Efficacy of Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 in treatment of irritable bowel syndrome in children: a double blind, randomis…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 138 adults with bowel symptoms after infection, Bifiform containing Bifidobacterium longum taken for 14 days restored lactose digestion in 70.8% of people and eased symptoms, while placebo did not.[Lactase deficiency in patients with postinfectious irritable bowel syndrome and the role of intestinal microflora in it…
- In 136 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, 2 billion CFU of Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 daily for 8 weeks reduced abdominal pain and increased complete spontaneous bowel movements compared with placebo.Randomized clinical trial: the effect of probiotic Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 vs. placebo on the symptoms management …
- In 123 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, symptom scores did not differ from placebo during the 12 weeks, but at week 16 follow-up more people improved on Bifidobacterium lactis (43.8%) and Bacillus coagulans (52.9%) than on placebo (20.5%).The Efficacy and Safety of Single-Strain Probiotic Formulations Containing Bifidobacterium lactis or Bacillus coagulans …
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 120 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, a 12-week biotic mixture containing Bifidobacterium longum gave more adequate symptom relief at 4 weeks (64.7% vs 42.0% with placebo) and fewer reports of worsening at 12 weeks, but no overall difference in symptom severity or quality of life.Efficacy and Safety of a Mixture of Microencapsulated Sodium Butyrate, Probiotics, and Short Chain Fructooligosaccharide…
- In 120 toddlers with respiratory illness, a Bifidobacterium longum infantis strain taken for 12 weeks led to fewer stomachaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and poor appetite than the control group, with no difference in stool frequency or consistency.Safety and Tolerance of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. Infantis YLGB-1496 in Toddlers with Respiratory Symptoms.
- In 120 patients with irritable bowel syndrome, Lactobacillus plantarum 299v did not relieve abdominal pain, bloating or incomplete emptying more than placebo.Role of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v versus Placebo in symptomatic improvement of irritable bowel syndrome patients.
- In 120 adults after heart surgery, Lactobacillus plantarum 24-7 twice daily for ten days improved bloating and hard stools versus placebo, though the overall digestive symptom score did not reach significance.Lactobacillus plantarum 24-7 improves postoperative bloating and hard stools by modulating intestinal microbiota in pati…
- In 115 children with functional abdominal pain, a Bacillus coagulans and fructo-oligosaccharide synbiotic twice daily for 4 weeks gave a higher pain response than placebo after treatment (60% vs 39.5%), but the difference was not significant at week 12.Synbiotic containing Bacillus coagulans and fructo-oligosaccharides for functional abdominal pain in children.
- In 112 adults with lower gut symptoms, an eight-week probiotic blend gave more overall symptom relief than placebo, with greater reductions in abdominal pain and bloating.Validity and safety of ID-JPL934 in lower gastrointestinal symptom improvement.
- In 109 adults with irritable bowel syndrome in a double-blind placebo-controlled trial, four weeks of a coated multi-strain probiotic gave greater overall symptom relief than placebo, especially in women and in people with constipation-predominant symptoms.Efficacy of Quadruple-coated Probiotics in Patients With Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-c…
- In 100 adults with long-term constipation, 2 billion CFU a day of Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 for 4 weeks increased bowel movements, and 98% of the probiotic group reached normal stool consistency versus 74% on placebo.Bacillus coagulans Unique IS2 in Constipation: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.
- In 100 people with irritable bowel syndrome, Bacillus coagulans BCP92 taken for 12 weeks improved symptom severity, digestive symptom frequency, stool consistency and stress compared with the control group, with no change in an inflammation marker (interleukin-6).Role of Bacillus coagulans (Heyndrickxia coagulans)BCP92 in managing irritable bowel syndrome: A randomized, double-blin…
- In 100 healthy adults, 4 weeks of Bacillus subtilis MB40 did not significantly reduce bloating, gas or abdominal discomfort versus placebo overall, though men showed larger reductions.A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel Study Evaluating the Efficacy of Bacillus subtilis MB40 to Redu…
- In 100 adults with functional bloating, 8 weeks of Bacillus subtilis did not differ from placebo overall, but women had less belching and flatulence than women on placebo.Effect of Bacillus subtilis ATCC 122264 on intestinal gas symptoms and quality of life in adults with functional bloatin…
- In an 80-infant trial, breastfed infants given B. infantis EVC001 in breast milk for 3 weeks had softer, better-formed stools than infants given lactation support alone, with no added side effects.Safety and tolerability of Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis EVC001 supplementation in healthy term breastfed i…
- In 80 healthy children aged 6 to 8, 1 billion CFU a day of Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086 for three months reduced the rate of flatulence and several respiratory symptoms compared with placebo.Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6068 decreases upper respiratory and gastrointestinal tract symptoms in healthy Mexican schol…
- In 78 adults with functional constipation, a spore-forming probiotic blend (including Weizmannia coagulans) for 4 weeks improved incomplete evacuation, abdominal pain before defecation, stool consistency and physical functioning compared with placebo.Effects of a spore-forming probiotic blend on bowel habits and physical well-being in adults with functional constipatio…
- In 76 healthy adults, 6 weeks of Bacillus subtilis BS50 improved bloating, burping and flatulence in 47.4% versus 22.2% on placebo.The probiotic Bacillus subtilis BS50 decreases gastrointestinal symptoms in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, …
- In 70 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of either probiotic blend cut abdominal pain by about 45-49% and symptom severity by about 56%, versus 29.5% and 14.4% with placebo.Probiotics in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
- In 70 adults with functional gas and bloating, 2 billion spores of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 daily for 4 weeks significantly reduced indigestion, gas and bloating scores compared with placebo and was well tolerated.The effects of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 on functional gas and bloating in adults: A randomized, double-blind, placeb…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 68 people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 8 weeks of a multi-strain synbiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum improved global symptom ratings, overall symptom severity, and gas and bowel habit scores compared with placebo, and was well tolerated.The Effectiveness of Synbiotic Preparation Containing Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium Probiotic Strains and Short Chai…
- In 68 children with a med-associated diarrhoea, 7 days of Bacillus subtilis HU58 gave normal stools by day 3 in 93.5% versus 22.6% on placebo, with less abdominal pain.Read the study on PubMed (40716758) →
- In 66 healthy adults, three weeks of probiotic fermented milk raised gut lactobacilli and bifidobacteria compared with baseline and control milk, but adding 4 g of inulin caused more gas and bloating than the other milks.The effect of probiotic fermented milk and inulin on the functions and microecology of the intestine.
- In 61 adults with bloating and gas but no bowel diagnosis, a Bacillus coagulans product taken for 4 weeks improved abdominal pain and total gut symptom scores compared with placebo, but most other measures showed no clear difference because placebo response was strong.A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel-group dual site trial to evaluate the effects of a …
- In 61 adults with irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and inflammatory bowel disease, a four-strain probiotic over 3 months did not significantly outperform placebo in reducing symptom scores, though 45 percent of the probiotic group reached the primary improvement target.Four-strain probiotic exerts a positive effect on irritable bowel syndrome symptoms occurring in inflammatory bowel dise…
- In 61 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of a two-strain spore-forming probiotic improved abdominal pain and stool consistency more than placebo.Effects of a Bacillus subtilis HU58 and Heyndrickxia faecalis SC208 spore-forming probiotic formula on gastrointestinal …
- In 60 people with irritable bowel syndrome after a bowel infection and lactose intolerance, two weeks of a Bifiform probiotic capsule three times daily with standard treatment restored normal small-bowel bacteria in 70.8% of the group, while the placebo group showed no clear improvement.[The role of small bowel microflora in the development of secondary lactase deficiency and the possibilities of its trea…
- In 60 people after gastric bypass, 2 weeks of probiotics (including Bifidobacterium longum BB536 twice daily) improved gut quality-of-life scores, including gas, bloating and abdominal pain.Effect of probiotics on postoperative quality of gastric bypass surgeries: a prospective randomized trial.
- In 60 healthy adults with mild digestive symptoms, 8 weeks of heat-treated Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347 caused minimal change in gut symptoms, though it lowered cholesterol and kept fecal calprotectin stable while it rose in the placebo group.Effect of Postbiotic Bifidobacterium longum CECT 7347 on Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Serum Biochemistry, and Intestinal M…
- In 60 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of a rose-hip drink with Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 9843 cut flatulence more than placebo but did not change bloating.Alteration of intestinal microflora is associated with reduction in abdominal bloating and pain in patients with irritab…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 60 adults with acute diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, Bacillus coagulans LBSC shortened diarrhea and eased abdominal pain compared with placebo; this strain was not PreforPro, so it is indirect evidence.A prospective, interventional, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and …
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 60 adults with gastrointestinal discomfort, a three-strain Bacillus probiotic blend over about 5 weeks improved bloating, belching, and overall dyspepsia scores compared with placebo; this blend was not PreforPro, so it is indirect evidence.A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of…
- In a crossover trial of 59 school children with chronic constipation, yogurt with Bifidobacterium longum for 5 weeks improved bowel movement frequency and belly pain more than plain yogurt alone.Pediatric functional constipation treatment with Bifidobacterium-containing yogurt: a crossover, double-blind, controlle…
- In 59 overweight adults, 1 gram daily of Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 for four weeks increased bowel movements and eased reflux, nausea, belly pain, and constipation compared with placebo.Impact of probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 on gastrointestinal health in overweight and obese individuals: A rando…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 56 healthy adults, a kefir-derived probiotic blend containing Bifidobacterium longum taken for 3 weeks reduced abdominal pain and bloating in male participants compared with control, with no clear effect reported in women.Putative Probiotic Strains Isolated from Kefir Improve Gastrointestinal Health Parameters in Adults: a Randomized, Singl…
- In a pilot trial of 52 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, taking Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced the average number of daily bowel movements compared with placebo.Effects of a proprietary Bacillus coagulans preparation on symptoms of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome.
- In 52 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, a simethicone and Bacillus coagulans combination taken three times daily after meals for 4 weeks reduced bloating and discomfort more than placebo.A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial on efficacy and safety of association of simethicone and Bac…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 50 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, a mixture of probiotics including Bifidobacterium longum taken daily for 8 weeks gave adequate overall symptom relief to 48% of people, compared with 12% on placebo, and firmer stools.The effect of a multispecies probiotic mixture on the symptoms and fecal microbiota in diarrhea-dominant irritable bowel…
- In 50 people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 2 billion CFU daily for about 8 weeks reduced abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea and stool frequency compared with placebo.The role of Weizmannia (Bacillus) coagulans LMG S-31876 in treating IBS-diarrhea.
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 49 people with irritable bowel syndrome, 68% of those taking a multispecies probiotic for 4 weeks had their symptoms substantially relieved, versus 37.5% on placebo.Effect of multispecies probiotics on irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.
- In 48 healthy adults, drinking a fermented rose-hip and oat drink containing Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 9843 for 3 weeks increased stool volume and reduced flatulence compared with a plain rose-hip drink, with the bacteria recovered in stool.Survival of Lactobacillus plantarum DSM 9843 (299v), and effect on the short-chain fatty acid content of faeces after in…
- In 44 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, 6 weeks of Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 reduced depression scores compared with placebo (14 of 22 vs 7 of 22 had a meaningful drop) and improved quality of life, but had no significant effect on anxiety or bowel symptoms.Probiotic Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 Reduces Depression Scores and Alters Brain Activity: A Pilot Study in Patients …
- In 44 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086 taken daily for 8 weeks significantly reduced abdominal pain and bloating from baseline, though the placebo comparison was limited by baseline differences between groups.Bacillus coagulans significantly improved abdominal pain and bloating in patients with IBS.
- In 40 people with irritable bowel syndrome, a liquid probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum 299V) for 4 weeks resolved abdominal pain in all treated patients versus 11 on placebo, and 95% of treated patients improved overall versus 15% on placebo.A controlled, double-blind, randomized study on the efficacy of Lactobacillus plantarum 299V in patients with irritable …
- In 40 adults with depression and irritable bowel syndrome, 2 billion CFU of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 daily for 90 days improved depression scores and bowel-related quality of life more than placebo, and reduced a blood marker of inflammation.Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 for the management of major depression with irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised, double-…
- In 40 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, 80 days of Bacillus coagulans LBSC improved bloating, cramping, abdominal pain, bowel symptoms and stool consistency compared with placebo.Efficacy and safety of Bacillus coagulans LBSC in irritable bowel syndrome: A prospective, interventional, randomized, d…
- In 40 people with irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of a Bacillus subtilis and Streptococcus faecium product reduced abdominal pain severity and frequency versus placebo, but did not significantly change bloating, gas, stool frequency, stool hardness, or intestinal gas volume.[The effects of probiotics on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome].
- In 36 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 2 billion CFU a day of Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 for 90 days reduced bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain and stool frequency more than placebo.Bacillus coagulans MTCC 5856 supplementation in the management of diarrhea predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: a doubl…
- In 35 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, taking 10 billion CFU of Bifidobacterium longum NCC3001 daily for 6 weeks improved anxiety and depression scores compared with placebo, and butyric acid levels rose along with these gains.Metabolome-associated psychological comorbidities improvement in irritable bowel syndrome patients receiving a probiotic…
- In 35 cancer patients on home tube feeding, 2 x 10^10 CFU of a probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum 299v) daily for 4 weeks reduced vomiting and flatulence and raised serum albumin more than placebo, but quality of life and overall nutritional status did not differ.Effects of 4 weeks of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v supplementation on nutritional status, enteral nutrition tolerance, a…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of 30 adults with diarrhea-predominant bowel symptoms, fermented milk containing Bifidobacterium longum for 4 weeks improved gut lining barrier function and lowered overall symptom scores.Clinical trial: effect of active lactic acid bacteria on mucosal barrier function in patients with diarrhoea-predominant…
- In 27 adults with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, four weeks of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum GTB1 gave more global symptom relief than placebo (94% vs 63%), reduced bloating and abdominal pain, and firmed stools.Effect of Oral Intake of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum APsulloc 331261 (GTB1TM) on Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel …
- In a crossover trial of 25 adults with irritable bowel syndrome, one month of a Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus blend with vitamin B6 cut abdominal pain, bloating and disease severity far more than placebo did.Effects of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 and Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 in IBS patients.
- In a placebo-controlled crossover trial of 24 mostly constipated adults, two weeks of Bifidobacterium longum BB536 increased bowel movement frequency in some people but not others. Gut microbiome and metabolome patterns could predict who responded.Integrated gut microbiome and metabolome analyses identified fecal biomarkers for bowel movement regulation by Bifidobac…
- In a double-blind crossover trial of 23 lactose intolerant people with ongoing digestive symptoms, 30 days of a Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus probiotic with vitamin B6 reduced bloating more than placebo and eased constipation.Effects of Bifidobacterium longum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus on Gut Microbiota in Patients with Lactose Intolerance and…
- In a double-blind trial of 15 adults with lactose malabsorption, drinking milk containing Bifidobacterium longum B6 grown on lactose produced less gas in breath tests and less flatulence than plain milk over four test days.Improvement of lactose digestion in humans by ingestion of unfermented milk containing Bifidobacterium longum.
- In 12 patients with irritable bowel syndrome in a 4-week crossover trial, Lactobacillus plantarum 299V did not change symptoms or colonic fermentation compared with placebo, though breath hydrogen after lactulose was lower.Effect of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v on colonic fermentation and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
- In a small crossover pilot of 8 children with autism and gut symptoms, a Bifidobacterium infantis plus colostrum combination was well tolerated, and some children had fewer gut symptoms and lower inflammatory signals, though the study was too small to show it works.Pilot study of probiotic/colostrum supplementation on gut function in children with autism and gastrointestinal symptoms…
- In a placebo-controlled trial of volunteers under stress, a probiotic stick containing Bifidobacterium longum for 3 weeks reduced stress-related abdominal pain and nausea, but did not change other symptoms.Probiotic food supplement reduces stress-induced gastrointestinal symptoms in volunteers: a double-blind, placebo-contro…
- In a post hoc look at a trial of diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, an eight-week multi-strain probiotic changed gut bacteria, and certain bacteria were linked to who responded and who did not.Compositional Changes in the Gut Microbiota of Responders and Non-responders to Probiotic Treatment Among Patients With …
- In adults with constipation, a daily multi-strain probiotic sachet containing Bifidobacterium longum for 30 days improved stool frequency and stool quality, but it did not differ significantly from the other probiotic formulation tested.The effect of probiotics on functional constipation in adults: A randomized, double-blind controlled trial.
- In a placebo-controlled trial in people with flatulence, Bifidobacterium longum CCFM1319 increased levels of Faecalibacterium prausnitzii in the gut and improved flatulence symptoms.Gut microbiota and metabolic alterations in participants with flatulence identify Faecalibacterium prausnitzii as a key …
- In people with nontyphoid Salmonella infection, Lactobacillus plantarum 299 v did not speed clearance of the infection or shorten symptoms compared with placebo, and its effects on gas and stool symptoms varied by sex.Effects of probiotic intake and gender on nontyphoid Salmonella infection.
- In adults with irritable bowel syndrome, eight weeks of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v at 10 billion CFU daily gave no more abdominal pain or quality of life relief than placebo.Randomized clinical trial: effect of Lactobacillus plantarum 299 v on symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.
- In 30 adults with moderate to severe irritable bowel syndrome, a rectal enema of the ReFerm oat-based postbiotic twice daily for 14 days reduced immune mast cell activity in colon biopsies, while the placebo enema did not.ReFerm®: a postbiotic fermented oat gruel composition is reducing mast cell degranulation in the colon of patients with …
- In an open study of 636 adults with constipation-type bowel syndrome, 3 grams daily of a symbiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum for at least 36 days increased weekly stool frequency and reduced moderate-to-severe bloating and abdominal pain.Effect of a symbiotic preparation on the clinical manifestations of irritable bowel syndrome, constipation-variant. Resu…
- In 228 adults with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, tianeptine was not inferior to amitriptyline over 4 weeks, but both groups also took the same probiotic, so this open-label trial does not isolate any effect of the probiotic itself.Tianeptine vs amitriptyline for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea: a multicenter, open-label, non-…
- In 143 adults with diarrhoea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 4 weeks of Medilac-S after rifaximin treatment lowered relapse to 40% versus 58% with rifaximin alone and improved stool frequency and consistency.Consolidation Therapy of Probiotics With Rifaximin Prevent Relapse in Rifaximin-Responsive Diarrhea-Predominant Irritabl…
- In 70 people with irritable bowel syndrome, adding Bifidobacterium longum W11 after rifaximin gave greater symptom relief at 2 months than rifaximin alone, though the doctor's assessment did not confirm this.Role of gut microflora and probiotic effects in the irritable bowel syndrome.
- In 64 children and teenagers aged 8 to 18 with irritable bowel syndrome, 12 weeks of one daily Bifidobacterium longum 35624 capsule led to clinically meaningful symptom improvement in 96.6% of participants, though gains were not kept during a two-week break.Effects of Bifidobacterium longum 35624 in Children and Adolescents with Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
- In an open-label randomized study of 62 people with post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome, adding Bifiform for 2 weeks to standard treatment led to more symptom relief and restored gut bacteria compared with standard treatment alone, with benefits lasting 6 months.[The effectiveness of a probiotic containing Bifidobacterium longum BB-46 and Enterococcus faecium ENCfa-68 in the treat…
- In 54 adults with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea or a med-associated diarrhea, 21 days of a multi-strain probiotic capsule daily reduced diarrhea, abdominal pain and dyspepsia scores and restored gut bacteria balance.Read the study on PubMed (37801459) →
- In 51 people with constipation-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, 3 months of Bifidobacterium longum W11 significantly reduced symptom severity, especially bloating and abdominal pain. The study had no placebo group.Targeted probiotic therapy in irritable bowel syndrome: a clinical evaluation on Clostridium butyricum CBM588 and Bifido…
- In 40 people with irritable bowel syndrome and mild to moderate anxiety or depression, taking a daily combination of two Bifidobacterium longum strains for 8 weeks improved bowel symptoms and lowered the inflammatory marker TNF-alpha, with gains holding up to week 16. There was no placebo group.Interactions between symptoms and psychological status in irritable bowel syndrome: An exploratory study of the impact o…
- In 38 adults with kidney disease taking a three-strain probiotic blend for six months, bloating and gas scores improved, stool formation got better, and blood markers of inflammation dropped, though there was no placebo group.Effect of a Probiotic Combination in an Experimental Mouse Model and Clinical Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease: A Pi…
- In a 30-day uncontrolled study of 26 people with irritable bowel syndrome, a four-strain probiotic capsule taken twice daily lowered symptom scores by 71% in those who also had small intestine bacterial overgrowth, compared with 11% in those without it.Effect of a Preparation of Four Probiotics on Symptoms of Patients with Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Association with Intes…
- In an uncontrolled pilot of 20 pregnant women with constipation, a daily multi-strain probiotic for 4 weeks raised bowel movements from about 3 to about 6.7 per week, with no side effects reported.Is a multispecies probiotic mixture effective in constipation during pregnancy? 'A pilot study'.
- In 19 adults with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, 500 mg of a Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium combination taken three times daily for 2 weeks improved symptom scores and stool consistency, with no placebo group for comparison.Baseline gut microbial profiles are associated with the efficacy of Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium in IBS-D.
- In a pilot study of 16 people with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, taking a daily Bifidobacterium longum ES1 probiotic for 8 or 12 weeks led to clinical response in 31% of participants, with lower blood inflammatory markers and better stool consistency. There was no placebo group.Clinical Response and Changes of Cytokines and Zonulin Levels in Patients with Diarrhoea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syn…
- In an open-label trial, 15 adults with irritable bowel syndrome who took the VSL#3 probiotic for 4 or 8 weeks had fewer abdominal pain episodes, and there was no control group.Probiotic VSL#3 Treatment Reduces Colonic Permeability and Abdominal Pain Symptoms in Patients With Irritable Bowel Synd…
- In a 42-day real-world study of 246 adults with diarrhea-predominant or mixed irritable bowel syndrome taking a probiotic plus vitamin D sachet daily, 62.9% of the 89 patients with usable data had a clinically meaningful symptom drop, and symptom relief tracked with better quality of life, anxiety and depression scores.Probiotics plus vitamin D in irritable bowel syndrome: a prospective multicentric non-interventional study.
- In 233 adults with irritable bowel syndrome in a real-world open-label study, 30 days of one Bifidobacterium longum 35624 capsule daily lowered symptom severity, and 57% moved to a milder category or went into remission.Effect of Bifidobacterium longum 35624 on disease severity and quality of life in patients with irritable bowel syndrome…
- In 221 adults with irritable bowel syndrome taking one capsule of Lactobacillus plantarum 299v daily for up to 12 weeks in routine clinical care, overall symptom scores fell significantly, with the largest drops in abdominal pain, gas and constipation severity.[Treatment of IBS with Lactobacillus plantarum 299v: Therapeutic success increases with length of treatment - real-life …
- In a retrospective study of 72 children with a med-associated diarrhea, adding Bacillus subtilis and Enterococcus faecium granules to routine treatment for 7 days shortened diarrhea and improved abdominal pain and stool consistency compared with routine treatment alone, with no adverse events recorded.Read the study on PubMed (32502043) →
- In 42 adults with moderate or severe irritable bowel syndrome, 12 weeks of one daily Bifidobacterium longum 35624 capsule reduced abdominal pain, bloating and stool problems, and the benefit lasted about a month after stopping.[Long-term probiotic administration for irritable bowel syndrome: a legal need].
- In a pilot study of 41 infants with colic, a tyndallized Bacillus coagulans and simethicone mixture given for 28 days was followed by at least a 50% reduction in crying time in 89% of infants, with no relevant side effects reported; the study had no placebo group.Efficacy of a mixture of simethicone and tyndallized bacillus coagulans in infant colic: a pilot study on behalf of Ital…
- In an uncontrolled observational study of 38 adults with functional bowel disorders, a Bacillus coagulans product called PROBACI taken twice daily for 4 weeks was followed by significant improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, and overall symptom scores, with the greatest benefit in people with constipation-dominant symptoms.Bacillus coagulans (PROBACI) in treating constipation-dominant functional bowel disorders.
Review Totals and Summary
Members Only977 reviews · 89% positive
977 reviews · Amazon 836 · Thorne 106 · Vitacost 23 · Walmart 12
89% positive6% neutral5% negative
Thorne Complete Biotic powder is well liked across the stores that sell it, with about 977 ratings in total. Buyers praise the taste, the convenience and the effect on digestion, and price is the main point of disagreement. **What buyers say it did for them:** Many describe a calmer gut and less bloating. One says "Easy to take. Reduces bloat. I will continue using." Another reports "No bloat No gas." A reviewer of nearly a year says "It is the only product I've found that has been keeping me regular." Others say they feel better overall, and one says it is "part of my daily routine and I love it." One new user says they don't yet know whether it is right for them. The Amazon summary says stomach issues resolved within days for some, and also lists digestive health and effectiveness among the most-mentioned themes. **What they complain about:** Complaints are few. Price is the main one, covered below. One Vitacost reviewer found it unsuitable for their stomach discomfort and thought the ingredients were average. That is the only negative review. Another reviewer's comment that it "Can't hurt, might help" is a lukewarm one, though they had no issues with it. **Taste, smell and form:** Taste is the most frequent theme. The orange flavor is often compared to a creamsicle: "like a powdered creamsicle." Another says "It tastes like an orange." Buyers like that it comes as single-serve sticks rather than pills: "I love the fact that they are not pills." Store summaries say the powder dissolves on the tongue without water, which makes it easy to take while travelling. One reviewer also mentions various flavors being available. One Amazon reviewer says it works for both humans and cats, but that is a single remark. **Value for money:** Opinions are mixed. One buyer says "Great but expensive" and calls it "very pricey." Another accepts the cost, saying "This brand is more expensive but they have much higher quality control standards." A Vitacost reviewer calls it costly but necessary. Amazon's summary has some saying it is worth every penny and others calling it overpriced. **Who it seems to suit and who it did not:** It seems to suit people who want a gentle, pleasant-tasting, no-pill option to take daily. Several reviewers mention bloat, gas or constipation. One reviewer advises, "If you struggle with constipation please check this out." A practitioner reviewer likes it enough to recommend to patients and give to family. People who trust the brand also respond well. It suits buyers who can accept a higher price. It did not suit one person with stomach discomfort, and first-time users may want to see how they respond before judging it. Reviews of other forms of the product were left out, and this summary covers the powder only. The written reviews are mostly short and general, so these themes reflect a limited sample.
Biohacker Summary
Members Only6 of 10 recommend it
6 of 10 biohackers on our panel recommend it
Four of the ten panelists spoke about Bifidobacterium longum, the main ingredient, and their views lean positive but are mixed. One uses a specific strain, 1714, paired with three B vitamins to clear brain fog from the gut up, and another highly recommends it, saying it has been used to take stress off the kidney and that it helps make lactase to break down lactose, so he suggests looking for it on probiotic labels. Two stayed neutral: one mentioned a patient who took strain 1714 and found deeper sleep, and the other noted that his own levels of it rose after a fecal transplant and that it is sensitive to meds. Nobody gave a dose, and nobody said they had stopped taking it. Bacillus subtilis is a smaller ingredient in this product, and panelists mostly mention it for gut issues and for helping the body convert vitamin K1 to K2.
See all 4 biohackers →Hide the biohackers
Dave Asprey · Bifidobacterium longum · uses
- Uses a targeted strain of B. longum 1714 paired with three B vitamins to fix brain fog from the gut up.
- Dave Asprey discusses a unique species of Bifidobacterium longum that has an exopolysaccharide covering made of peptidoglycan, which is important for balancing mood, reducing inflammation, and negating the negative effects of cortisol in the gut.
- Dave Asprey takes the Just Thrive Health probiotic because it contains bacillus indicus HU36, which makes compounds beneficial for eye health, and he believes doing both the probiotic and separate supplements is the right approach.
Dr. Mark Hyman · Bifidobacterium longum · neutral
- Mentions a specific strain, Bifidobacterium longum 1714, that a patient took and found improved the quality of deep sleep.
- Notes that certain bacteria, such as bacillus subtilis, can help increase dopamine levels.
- Mentions that certain probiotics, specifically Bacillus subtilis with B7092 (called Tundrex), can be helpful for gut issues in long COVID.
- Has been using a particular strain of bacillus subtilis, a soil microorganism from Siberian soil, mostly to help people recover from parasitic infection.
- Uses a particular strain of Bacillus subtilis, found in Tundrex, to stimulate the immune response in the gut and eliminate viral traces in the GI tract, especially for GI symptoms of COVID-19 and parasitic infections.
- States he has been using bacillus subtilis, the strain in Tundrex, to help people recover from parasitic infections and finds it very helpful for GI symptoms of COVID-19.
Ben Greenfield · Bifidobacterium longum · neutral
- Ben Greenfield's Bifidobacterium longum, which plays a role in immune education and is sensitive to meds, increased after FMT, contributing to reduced food sensitivities.
- Notes that Creatures of Habit Superfood Meal contains Bacillus subtilis, which is a probiotic.
- Ben lists Bifidobacterium longum as a probiotic strain.
Dr. Eric Berg · Bifidobacterium longum · recommends
- Highly recommends bifidobacterium longum, stating it has been extensively used to help take the stress off the kidney.
- Combines Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus gasseri with a strain of Bacillus subtilis in a yogurt for its extraordinary bacteria, aiming for SIBO normalization.
- Identifies B. subtilis as the main microbe that helps convert Vitamin K1 to K2, but notes it is easily destroyed by broad-spectrum meds.
- Includes a strain of Bacillus subtilis in their homemade yogurt due to its extraordinary bacteriocin production, which, combined with other microbes, helps normalize SIBO.
- Dr. Berg recommends looking for Bifidobacterium longum on probiotic labels, as these microbes will start making lactase to break down lactose.
- Dr. Berg suggests that Bifidobacteria longum, found in fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, certain soft cheeses, and probiotic yogurts, may help reduce menopause-related weight changes due to its hormone-balancing properties.
- Dr. Berg lists Bifidobacterium longum as one of the best probiotics for type 2 diabetes.
RAL Summary
Members OnlyTier 2 for Digestion and Bloating
Human studies of PreforPro show 78% of people improved where it was measured (61 of 81 human studies showed an improvement), and 89% of 985 reviews are positive. The final check notes: The tier was justified by PreforPro study counts, but none of the listed studies tested PreforPro; the tier 2 rests instead on the full-dose Bifidobacterium longum evidence and 985 mostly positive reviews.
Where the evidence disagrees: 15 of the 113 human studies found no effect.
More Details
Members OnlyBody systems · Combine with · Possible side effects
Body systems: Digestive system
Combine with: For post-meal upper-abdominal comfort, pair this probiotic with products that act higher in the digestive tract. Broad-spectrum digestive enzymes (protease, lipase, amylase) help break down meals and reduce fullness. Betaine HCl with pepsin may help those with low stomach acid, though it should be avoided with ulcers or a med use. Ginger root extract supports gastric emptying and motility, and peppermint or caraway oil (enteric-coated) can ease upper-GI spasm and discomfort. Iberogast-style herbal blends with STW5 have clinical support for functional dyspepsia. Ox bile or phosphatidylcholine may help if fatty meals are the trigger. Zinc-carnosine can support the stomach lining. For the gut side, add extra soluble fiber such as partially hydrolyzed guar gum and L-glutamine, and consider Saccharomyces boulardii for added microbiome resilience. Consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or are accompanied by pain, weight loss, or difficulty swallowing.
Possible side effects: No major side effects reported.
Supplement Facts
Heat-Treated Bifidobacterium longum 25 mg · PreforPro®† 15 mg · Bacillus subtilis 3.3 mg
Supplement Facts
Serving Size One Stick Pack (1 g)
Servings Per Container 30
Amount Per Serving% Daily Value
| Heat-Treated Bifidobacterium longum | 25 mg | † |
| PreforPro®† | 15 mg | † |
| Bacillus subtilis | 3.3 mg | † |
† Daily Value not established.
Other ingredients: Mannitol, Xylitol, Organic Rice Hull, Maltodextrin, Citric Acid, Natural Flavors.
Directions: Adults and children over 4 years: Open 1 stick daily, pour directly on tongue, and swallow. Dissolves rapidly, no water required.
Label source: Reverseagelab · Report a label change
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Graded November 6, 2026 by the Reverse Age Lab evidence engine, from human studies, real reviews and our biohacker panel. How we grade. Is this medical advice? No. Rala organizes the published evidence; go over any change with your doctor, especially if you take meds.
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