Research project led by Bailey Hanna, MS, RDN - no affiliate links, ads or sponsored products.
The full results from our statistical analysis of over 40 probiotics across 69 trials for this symptom type are found below. You will see probiotic rankings were ordered from highest to lowest based first on effect size for the specific symptom(s). Then secondarily sorted based on the efficacy for global IBS symptoms. In addition, they are also subsequently sorted based on evidence quality of the underlying studies. Full analysis of the results coming soon.
Effect sizes help us understand how significant a treatment’s impact is in practical terms. While we lack direct comparisons of these probiotics in similar groups using the same methods, and we can’t definitively say one is better than another, we can still appreciate the potential of each. When choosing a probiotic, it’s important to consider how well it improves overall symptoms and to take into account the specific needs and responses of the individual patient.
Add condition
Statistically significant improvement and a Cohen’s d or h of ≥ 1.0
Statistically significant improvement and a Cohen’s d or h of 0.5 – 1.0
Statistically significant improvement and a Cohen’s d or h of <0.5
No statistically significant effect
Not studied
Adverse effects measured
When selecting our top probiotic picks, we ensure they are commercially available and backed by high-quality evidence, with an average score above 75% for the relevant symptom parameters. The probiotics must also demonstrate a moderate to high effect size (>0.5) for these symptoms. If there are more than five candidates, we limit our top picks to the best five based on the effect size for relevant symptoms and Global IBS symptoms, as well as evidence quality. This ensures our recommendations are practical and reliable.