Menopause is a natural and inevitable stage in a woman's life. It marks the end of the reproductive years and comes with a variety of physical, emotional, and mental changes. Women over 50 who are going through menopause may experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, weight gain, and decreased bone density.
One way to manage these symptoms and promote overall health during menopause is by taking a probiotic supplement. Probiotics are live bacteria that can help provide a balanced gut microbiome, improve digestion, boost immunity, and even support mental health.
But with so many probiotic options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. In this article, we will take a look at several high-quality probiotic supplements that contain the best probiotic bacteria strains for supporting the health and wellness needs of women who are going through this difficult transition period.
Best Probiotic for Women Over 50 - The Short List
Best Probiotic Supplements for Women Over 50 - An Overview
After thoroughly reviewing the ingredient profiles of all the most popular probiotic products on the market, we have selected five that contain the most appropriate strains for tackling the symptoms of menopause.
#1 - YourBiology Gut+ (Editor's Pick)
CLICK to view YourBiology Gut+ price and offers
YourBiology Gut+ is a high-quality probiotic supplement that's produced by a reputable company that provides a 60-day money-back guarantee. Yep! That's right. If you don't love the results, you can get your money back.
Like a lot of competing supplements, this one has been designed for women from the ground up. YourBiology Gut+ isn't specifically marketed toward women who are over 50 or going through menopause. It's for women of all ages but still stands out as a great choice for women going through the chance of life.
In fact, due to the choice of probiotics it provides, we consider it the best option overall. It's a very impressive supplement that has earned countless positive customer reviews. Yourbiology is also very effective at reducing weight gain caused by the change.
Key Probiotic Strains
Each dose of YourBiology Gut+ provides 40 billion CFU of probiotic bacteria taken from four different strains. When it comes to controlling the symptoms of menopause, Lactobacillus acidophilus (L. acidophilus), Lactobacillus paracasei (L. paracasei), and Lactobacillus plantarum (L. plantarum) offer the most notable value.
It's worth pointing out that all these strains offer great value in many other areas. However, to keep things concise, we are going to concentrate on their value regarding menopause-related issues.
- L. acidophilus: This powerful probiotic has been shown to support weight loss, making it a sterling choice for women who are battling menopausal weight gain. However, it can also help with many other menopause-related issues and offers such great value that some researchers recommend its use as a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT). [1]
- L. paracasei: Another powerful probiotic species that can be useful for controlling menopausal weight gain. [2]
- L. plantarum: Together with Lactobacillus paracasei (mentioned above), Lactobacillus plantarum has been shown to offer protection against weak bones and osteoporosis. [3]
Why Is This Probiotic Supplement the Best for Women Over 50?
YourBiology Gut+ beats alternative brands on several fronts. The most impressive thing of all is the choice of probiotics it provides. However, it also provides them with a suitably high CFU. That's an important consideration as well.
In addition to providing three of the best probiotics for controlling menopause symptoms, YourBiology Gut+ also provides one of the best sources of prebiotic fiber. It's called FOS (fructooligosaccharides).
As with other forms of prebiotic fiber, the human digestive organs cannot process FOS. However, probiotic bacteria feed on it and thrive. The presence of FOS in the YourBiology Gut+ formula doesn't only benefit the bacteria present in the pills, it also benefits the existing colonies already present in the gut.
Furthermore, research shows that FOS can improve calcium absorption in postmenopausal women, thereby helping to prevent osteoporosis. [4]
One of the best things about YourBiology Gut+ is the capsules have a special coating that delays disintegration. It's a 100% natural compound derived from seaweed. By delaying the disintegration process, the coating stops the live probiotics from being damaged by the harsh digestive enzymes in the stomach.
Lastly, we are very impressed to see a money-back guarantee. Although we are confident in the supplement's ability to provide excellent results, it's always good to see a guarantee because it provides consumers with extra peace of mind and 60 days is more than long enough to try any supplement and see what it can do.
Also read:
Best Adipex OTC brands that work like Phentermine
#2 - Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion
CLICK to view Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion price and offers
The name says it all, Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion is a probiotic supplement that provides 40 Billion CFU of probiotic bacteria.
Although it's not marketed specifically towards women, it's still an excellent choice for ladies who are over 50 and looking for a natural way to cope with symptoms of menopause.
As you would expect from any good probiotic, Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion is also an excellent choice for anyone who simply wants to improve their overall gut health.
Key Probiotic Strains
Like YourBiology Gut+, Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion contains Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus paracasei, and Lactobacillus paracasei. In many ways, there's not a lot to choose between them. Either one can deliver an excellent level of support to menopausal and postmenopausal women.
However, when you choose Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion, you need to pay the shipping costs. When you choose YourBiology Gut+ you do not.
When you choose YourBiology Gut+, it's also possible to take advantage of special deals that allow you to get three bottles for the price of two or five for the price of three, making it better value for money all around.
Why Is Health Nutrition Good Probiotic for a Woman Over 50
Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion provides the right strains of probiotic bacteria in sufficiently high doses. As with YourBiology Gut+, that's the main thing that helps it stand out from the crowd.
It also provides FOS to nourish the probiotics and help them to thrive. Additionally, each pill has a protective coating that helps make sure most of the bacteria make it through the digestive tract alive.
Overall, we still rate YourBiology Gut+ the #1 choice but Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion is a great second choice and one we suggest you go for if the top option becomes temporarily unavailable during times of excessive customer demand.
Latest News:
Strongest over the counter appetite suppressants
#3 - Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic
CLICK to view Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic price and offers
Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic is a high-potency probiotic pill that provides 50 billion CFU per serving. However, in this case, there are 16 different strains of probiotic bacteria.
Like a lot of probiotic dietary supplements made for women, Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic contains beneficial bacteria strains that support good vaginal health and help prevent urinary tract infections.
Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic is specially formulated for women at all stages of their lives. This is something it has in common with YourBiology Gut+ and, like the top option, it contains probiotic bacteria strains that can be particularly beneficial for women dealing with the repercussions of menopause.
Key Ingredients
Like the previous two products, Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic provides L. acidophilus, L. planatarum, and L. paracasei. However, in this case, the dose per strain is lower. That's one of the reasons we do not rate Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic as highly as the previous two supplements.
In addition to probiotic bacteria, Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic also provides prebiotic fiber and organic cranberry extract. Unfortunately, the manufacturer does not identify the form of probiotic fiber in use but, even if it is not FOS, it will still be beneficial.
Bearing in mind some of the aims of the formulation, cranberry extract is a valuable inclusion. It's associated with many health benefits including, improving immune health, aiding urinary tract function, and helping to provide a healthy vaginal microbiome. [5]
At only 50 mg per dose, the amount of cranberry extract is quite low but it may still be sufficient to be beneficial. However, you would probably get greater overall benefits if you were to choose YourBiology Gut+ or Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion and take each dose with cranberry juice instead of water.
What Makes These Daily Probiotic Capsules So Good for A 50 Year Old Woman?
As with the previous two options, it's mainly the choice of probiotic bacteria that wows us. Although the potency per strain is lower than that of the top 2 products, this option still outshines all of the other popular probiotics for women.
#4 - Garden of Life
CLICK to view Garden of Life is a Dr-formulated probiotic price
Like the previous option, Garden of Life is a Dr.-formulated probiotic product that provides 50 billion CFU per dose. The two products actually have much in common because they both provide 16 strains of probiotic bacteria, are formulated especially for women, and are heavily geared towards providing women with a healthy immune system and providing improvements in digestive and vaginal health.
Key Ingredients
Although the inclusion rates are a little different, Garden of Life and Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic share many ingredients in common. However, both products contain several ingredients that are unique to their formulas as well.
By now, you probably won't be surprised to learn that Garden of Life contains L. acidophilus, L. Plantarum, and L. Paracasei. It's this probiotic trio that gives the supplement the potential to be so beneficial to women who are dealing with menopause and its associated issues.
When we tell you the supplement provides prebiotic fiber, this should not come as a surprise either. The formula contains two forms: an organic starch taken from potatoes and some organic acacia fiber.
What Makes This Probiotic for Women 50 and Above Ideal?
Whether it's due to the luck of the draw or careful planning, there is no escaping the fact that Garden of Life provides three of the best probiotics for menopause.
As with Doctor's Recipes Women’s Probiotic, the inclusion rates are not high enough to top YourBiology Gut+ or Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion but this option still knocks spots off most of the other probiotics that are available to buy over-the-counter (OTC) and online.
#5 - Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women
CLICK to view Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women price
Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women is a doctor-approved dietary supplement for women. It only provides six probiotic strains but backs up their abilities with a few plant-based additional ingredients.
Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women provides 50 billion CFU per dose. It's another high-potency option that helps women improve their health and vitality in a number of different ways.
As is often the case with this type of dietary supplement, the manufacturer does not make any claims relating to menopause or other age-related issues. Instead, it draws attention to the supplement's ability to support urinary tract health and provide relief from occasional constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating.
There is no denying this option's value in any of these areas because some of the strains it contains have proven abilities when it comes to improving digestive health and have even been shown to be effective natural treatments for irritable bowel syndrome.
However, we won't delve into the supplement's other abilities too deeply to avoid going off-topic.
Key Ingredients
Like all the best probiotic products for women who are over 50 and going through menopause, Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women contains L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, and L. plantarum. Yep! It's that powerful probiotic trio again. And yet again, you will get more generous helping if you choose YourBiology Gut+ or Health Nutrition Probiotic 40 Billion.
Nevertheless, this supplement is an excellent choice for women who are undergoing a menopause-related "mid-life" crisis. Let's not forget that L. acidophilus has been recommended as a safe alternative to HRT. [1]
Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women also contains Jerusalem artichoke root, acacia, D-Mannose, and cranberry fruit powder.
D-Mannose is a fruit-based sugar that's often paired with cranberry juices and extracts. The two ingredients appear to share a special synergy that allows them to be an excellent team when it comes to tackling infections of the urinary tract.
What Makes this Probiotic Ideal for 50 Year Old Women
The main thing we like about this option is the choice of ingredients. Once again, it's "The Trio," that works in its favor. When you review products of this nature, you need to follow the science and the science shows Physician's Choice Probiotics for Women provides probiotics that can help women who are over 50 and/or going through menopause.
How to Choose the Best Probiotics for Women Over 50
When selecting a probiotic supplement, it is important to consider the following factors:
Strains of Bacteria
The most important aspect to look for in a probiotic product is the strains of bacteria it provides. Most of the best probiotics for tackling menopausal issues belong to the Lactobacillus and bacteria family.
However, many probiotics from the Lactobacillus family have greater value in areas other than alleviating the symptoms of menopause, so it's necessary to choose the most appropriate Lactobacillus species and strains.
Colony Forming Units (CFUs)
The number of live bacteria in a probiotic supplement is measured in CFUs. For women over 50, it's best to choose a supplement with at least 40 billion CFUs per serving.
Quality Standards
It is important to choose a probiotic product from a reputable company that follows good manufacturing practices and has third-party testing for purity and potency. This ensures that you are getting a high-quality product with the promised benefits.
Benefits of Taking Probiotics During Menopause
As women go through menopause, they may experience a variety of symptoms that can affect their overall well-being. Certain aspects of menopause such as hot flashes and mood changes are only unpleasant. However, others such as weaker bones and elevated cholesterol can be potentially dangerous.
Unfortunately, although the option remains popular with many women, HRT can present dangers of its own. Not surprisingly, probiotic products are generally considered to be one of the best natural alternatives.
Let's take a look at some of the ways probiotics can help make menopause easier.
- Improved Bone Health: Research shows certain probiotics can help increase bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. This could be particularly beneficial as menopause is often associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone loss.
- Weight Management: Research suggests that probiotics can play a role in weight management during menopause. While the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood, certain strains of probiotics have been linked to improved metabolic health and reduced weight gain.
- Relief from Common Menopausal Symptoms: Probiotics can alleviate some of the common symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Although more research is needed to fully understand the impact of probiotics on menopausal symptoms, initial findings show promise.
- Support for Vaginal Health: The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to changes in the vaginal microbiome, increasing the risk of Bacterial Vaginosis and similar vaginal infections that cause pain and discomfort. Strains from the Lactobacillus family offer the most benefits in this area, with L. acidophilus being particularly useful. [6]
Probiotics Vs. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Probiotics are a popular natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT). But what exactly is HRT and how do probiotic dietary supplements compare?
Hormone Replacement Therapy involves taking synthetic hormones to replenish the declining levels of estrogen and progesterone in a woman's body. This can help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, but it also carries some health risks including increased susceptibility to strokes, blood clots, and cancers.
FAQs
How can probiotics help with menopause?
Probiotics can help alleviate some of the common symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes, mood swings, and weakened bones. They can also support vaginal health by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria.
Are there any side effects of taking probiotics?
Most women experience no negative side effects from taking probiotics during menopause. However, some women may experience mild digestive discomfort or bloating as their gut adjusts to the new bacteria. This generally subsides quickly.
Can probiotics help remedy vaginal yeast infections?
Yes, probiotics can help prevent and treat vaginal yeast infections by promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the vagina. Lactobacillus strains, in particular, have been shown to be effective in preventing these types of infections. However, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional if you are experiencing recurring yeast infections.
Best Working Probiotics for Women 50 and Above Conclusion
Choosing the best probiotic for women over 50 going through menopause requires careful consideration of strains, CFUs, additional ingredients, and quality standards. With the right probiotic supplement, women can manage their symptoms and support their overall health during this transitional period.
This article provides information about five of the best probiotic products for women who are going through menopause. Due to its choice of probiotic strains, high potency, and a lengthy money-back guarantee, we consider
YourBiology Gut+ to be the best probiotic for a woman over 50 overall.
However, we have also provided information about four probiotic supplement options that are almost as good.
In all cases, we have provided information about the way the supplements work, along with links to supportive science, as and when necessary.
References
- The Effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus YT1 (MENOLACTO) on Improving Menopausal Symptoms: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7408745/
- Lactobacillus Paracasei as a Protective Factor of Obesity Induced by an Unhealthy Diet in Children: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32518007/
- Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 and Lactobacillus paracasei GKS6 Supplementation Ameliorates Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Mice: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32605314/
- Effect of Short-Chain Fructooligosaccharides on Intestinal Calcium Absorption and Calcium Status in Postmenopausal Women: A Stable-Isotope Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12540407/
- What Are the Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice?: https://www.health.com/cranberry-juice-7508614
- Acidophilus: https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements-acidophilus/art-20361967
By Chris Bates
