The 7 Best Probiotic Yogurts For Gut Health, According to Nutritionists and RDs
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Looking for a tasty way to improve your gut health? Yogurt may be the answer.
The dairy product is loaded with probiotics, or "good bacteria" that can help improve your immune system, digestion, and overall health. But is all yogurt probiotic? No, not all yogurts are created equal — some are filled with unnecessary sugars and artificial flavors. "What many people may not realize is that not all fermented foods can be considered probiotic," says Amanda Sauceda, RD. When looking for probiotic yogurt, you want to look for "live and active cultures on the label," Sauceda explains.
These live cultures of beneficial bacteria (e.g., Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus) can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, and kombucha. These bacteria give yogurt its distinctive taste and texture, and they also provide a number of health benefits.
Fortunately, there are several probiotic yogurt brands and brands that carry probiotic yogurt. We've consulted the experts and compiled a list of the best probiotic yogurts. And for those who prefer nondairy alternatives or crave the tangy goodness of probiotic kefir yogurt, we've got you covered too. We've even included a probiotic yogurt drink in the mix in case you'd prefer to sip in the probiotic yogurt benefits. Ahead, you'll find 7 of the best probiotic yogurt RDs and nutritionists love.
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Best Plain Probiotic Yogurt
Stonyfield Organic Whole Milk Probiotic Yogurt ($5)
This yogurt is a favorite among experts for its gut-friendly benefits. It contains six live active cultures, including S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, Bifidobacterium BB-12, L. acidophilus, L. paracasei, and L. rhamnosus.
"Yogurts with multiple strains are better because individual probiotics have unique health benefits — they all complement each other with different functions," says Robert Iafelice, MS, RDN, LDN. "For example, some strains support cognitive function and mood while others have an anti-inflammatory activity or help fight Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections."
Per serving: 170 calories, 125 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 12 g sugar, 9 g protein
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Best Greek Probiotic Yogurt
If you're a fan of Greek yogurt, this one is worth a try. It has only nine grams of sugar and four live and active cultures, including L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus, L. acidophilus, Bifidus, L. case.
"The best probiotic yogurts are going to be dairy-based," says Sophie Burge Dolan, MS, RDN, LDN. "Fage Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics and my favorite recommendation. It doesn't matter if you choose the nonfat or full-fat option; they're all loaded with probiotics."
Per serving: 120 calories, 55 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 5 g sugar, 19 g protein
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Best Dairy-Free Probiotic Yogurt
Forager Project Cashewmilk Yogurt ($6)
If you're looking for a dairy-free option, this yogurt is worth a try. The Forager Project is known for its creamy, plant-based yogurts.
This particular yogurt is made with cashew milk and is vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free, making it a popular choice for people with dietary restrictions. It contains S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, L. acidophilus, Bifidus, L. lactis, and L. plantarum.
"This is a great plant-based yogurt option; it has really clean ingredients and includes all the main active live probiotic cultures for gut health," says Anna Brown, MS, RD. "Just keep in mind most plant-based yogurts usually include gums and added fibers to help with texture, so if you're sensitive to additives like guar gum, pectin, agar, and locust bean gum this may not be the best option for you."
Per serving: 130 calories, 10 mg sodium, 1 g fiber, 1 g sugar, 3 g protein
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Best Ethical Probiotic Yogurt
Maple Hill Creamery Organic Cream on Top Yogurt ($7)
Maple Hill Creamery proudly holds the title of America's original 100 percent grass-fed organic dairy. With more than 130 grass-fed organic farms in New York State, Maple Hill offers sustainable, health-conscious options, including its original Maple Hill Creamery Organic Cream on Top Yogurt, for anyone looking to make ethical food choices.
This yogurt has four live and active cultures: B. lactis, L. acidophilus, L. delbruecki subsp. bulgaricus., and S. thermophilus.
"This is a great option if you like your yogurt a little more 'watery' but still with that full-fat flavor," says Brown. "This has all the important probiotic strains for gut health, and it's made with organic milk from 100% grass-fed cows, which is great."
Per serving: 150 calories, 110 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 9 g sugar, 8 g protein
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Best Non-Fat Probiotic Yogurt
Chobani's Non-Fat Greek Yogurt ($6)
Chobani is a popular brand with several options, including its one-of-a-kind zero-sugar products. But if you're looking for a more traditional Greek yogurt, Chobani's Non-Fat Greek Yogurt is a solid choice. It contains S. thermophilus, L. bulgaricus, L. acidophilus, Bifidus and L. casei.
"This is a good option if you're looking for a non-fat yogurt option for heart health or other health concerns," says Brown. "This yogurt has all the main probiotic strains for gut health, but keep in mind it's not made from organic milk."
Per serving: 90 calories, 65 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 6 g sugar, 16 g protein
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Best Low-Sugar Probiotic Yogurt
TWO GOOD Low Fat Lower Sugar Vanilla Greek Yogurt ($2)
If you're looking for a lower-sugar option, this one from TWO GOOD is the way to go. With just two grams of sugar per serving, this yogurt is a tasty alternative for anyone who wants to cut back on their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor.
"This particular Greek yogurt is made with live cultures like Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, which are beneficial bacteria that support gut health," says April Federico, CN.
Per serving: 80 calories, 35 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 2 g sugar, 12 g protein
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Best Probiotic Yogurt If You Prefer Kefir
Lifeway Organic Whole Milk Kefir ($6)
For people who can't stand the texture of yogurt, there's kefir. Kefir is a fermented drink that is high in probiotics and low in lactose. It has a slightly fizzy, tart flavor and a creamy, slightly thicker texture than yogurt.
Lifeway Organic's Whole Milk Kefir is a good alternative for anyone who'd rather drink probiotics than eat them with a spoon. Plus, it contains 12 live active cultures.
"Lifeway offers about 10-12 grams of protein per serving, with no added sugars, and very little fat," says Juliana Tamayo, MS, RD, LDN. "It has a smoother consistency, so it can be added to cereal, smoothies, juices, and parfaits."
Per serving: 190 calories, 125 mg sodium, 0 g fiber, 18 g sugar, 10 g protein
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