Culturelle markets themselves as “The Most Trusted Probiotic Brand,” and it’s true that they are an industry leader when it comes to gut health supplements.
The Lactobacillus rahmnosus GG (LGG) in Culturelle’s probiotics is the #1 clinically studied strain. This product stands out in the category for its overall low CFU count (only 10 billion compared to 40 billion or more in some competitors) and lack of strain diversity.
Culturelle’s probiotic is vegetarian and free of wheat, gluten, soy, milk, and preservatives.
Quick Facts
- Over 1,000 scientific studies have shown the safety and effectiveness of their main probiotic strain
- Vegetarian friendly
- Only one capsule per serving
- 10 billion CFUs, less than most competitors
Nutrition Breakdown
With 10 billion CFUs per capsule, Culturelle’s daily probiotic has less CFUs than most competitors we’ve analyzed.
To keep the CFU count as high as possible, Culturelle recommends storing the product in a cool, dry, dark place like a cupboard. It does not need to be refrigerated.
Culturelle cites over 1,000 scientific studies that show the safety and effectiveness of their LGG probiotic strain.
Hear Our Expert's Take
Culturelle Daily Probiotic contains one strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus. This is a major drawback, which in my opinion makes it less effective and of a lower quality. High quality probiotics usually contain multiple strains of bacteria, in order to more closely mimic the diversity of bacteria in our gut.
This probiotic only contains 10 billion CFUs, which is much less than other brands. Typically, it is recommended to choose a probiotic supplement with anywhere between 5 billion and 100 billion CFUs. Consumers who are newer to using probiotics may wish to start around 30-50 billion CFUs, to avoid gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or irritability. These symptoms are more likely to occur initially, as your gut adjusts to the bacteria.
Culturelle Daily Probiotic is formulated without milk, gluten, soy, wheat, or preservatives. It also contains inulin, a common prebiotic used as a filler. I would like to see more information on any additional ingredients to determine what other fillers may be used to determine the quality of the product. There is little information available as well in regards to the packaging and type of capsule used to maintain the potency of the probiotics.
Overall, I don’t believe that Culturelle’s Daily Probiotic is as high quality as other brands. It contains fewer strains (as well as CFUs), which in my opinion diminish the efficacy of the product. There is also a little bit of mystery surrounding any additional filler ingredients. As a Registered Dietitian, I would recommend another product.
Aprylle Deasey
MS, RD, CDN
Registered Dietitian
Expert's Rating: 2.5 / 5
The Final Word
Unlike some supplement manufacturers that spread their product line far and wide, Culturelle sticks to probiotics. They are dedicated to helping their customers improve their gut health, and use the most clinically researched strain in the world.
Culturelle stands behind their product, they guarantee potency through the date on the box, as long as you store it as directed (in a cool, dry, dark place).
That said, Culturelle’s product does fall far short of competitors in total CFUs as well as strain variation. If you’re looking for a probiotic with multiple strains, this isn’t the choice for you.
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Benefits of Probiotics
Probiotics are living microorganisms that are found in fermented foods as well as probiotic supplements. Ingesting probiotics influences your baseline microbiome, and they are a popular supplement for overall gut health.
Studies have shown that benefits of a probiotic supplement may include:
- Restoring your natural gut balance
- Preventing diarrhea
- Lowered cholesterol
- Healthier skin
- Stronger immune system
While probiotics aren’t a silver bullet, they are a great way to help restore your gut and intestinal health. Studies have also shown that probiotics may help you lose weight and belly fat.