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Probiotics for SIBO: Evidence-Based Strains That Actually Work

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Probiotics for SIBO: Evidence-Based Strains That Actually Work

What clinical research reveals about using beneficial bacteria to address small intestinal bacterial overgrowth—and why the right strains matter

If you've been diagnosed with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), the suggestion to take probiotics might seem counterintuitive. After all, SIBO means there's already too much bacteria in the wrong place—so why would adding more help?

This paradox has sparked considerable debate in the medical community. Yet a growing body of clinical research tells a different story: when chosen strategically, certain probiotic strains can actually help clear bacterial overgrowth, reduce hydrogen levels on breath tests, and significantly improve digestive symptoms. A landmark meta-analysis found that probiotics achieved a 62.8% SIBO decontamination rate—and patients who used them showed significantly better outcomes than those who didn't.[1]

The key lies not in whether to use probiotics for SIBO, but in which specific strains to choose. Spore-forming bacteria like Bacillus coagulans and Bacillus clausii pass through the small intestine in a dormant state, activating only when they reach the large intestine. Multi-strain formulations containing specific Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species have demonstrated remarkable efficacy in clinical trials—particularly for patients with overlapping IBS and SIBO.

This guide examines what current research actually says about probiotics for SIBO, which strains have the strongest clinical evidence, and how to incorporate them into a comprehensive management approach. Understanding the science behind multi-strain probiotic formulations can help you make informed decisions about your gut health.

Key Takeaways

  • Meta-analysis of 18 clinical studies found a 62.8% SIBO decontamination rate with probiotic use—significantly higher than control groups (RR=1.61, p<0.05). Hydrogen breath test levels decreased by 36.35 ppm and abdominal pain scores improved significantly.[1]
  • Spore-forming probiotics (Bacillus species) offer unique advantages for SIBO because they remain dormant through the small intestine, only activating in the large intestine where they're meant to work.[2]
  • Bacillus clausii achieved 47% SIBO decontamination as a standalone treatment—comparable to the 20-75% rate observed with many antibiotics—with minimal side effects.[3]
  • A four-strain probiotic formula (including L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, B. lactis) produced a 71.3% reduction in IBS symptom scores specifically in patients with confirmed SIBO, compared to only 10.6% in IBS patients without SIBO.[4]
  • Synbiotic combinations (probiotics plus prebiotics) demonstrated 93.3% negative breath tests versus 66.7% with antibiotics alone in maintenance therapy for SIBO.[5]
  • Multi-strain formulations consistently outperform single strains in clinical trials, particularly when combining Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and spore-forming Bacillus species.[6]

Understanding SIBO: When Bacteria Colonize the Wrong Place

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) occurs when excessive bacteria populate the small intestine—an area that normally contains relatively few microorganisms compared to the colon. Under healthy conditions, various protective mechanisms keep bacterial counts low in the small intestine: gastric acid, bile flow, the migrating motor complex (MMC), and the ileocecal valve all work together to prevent bacterial migration from the colon.

When these defenses fail, colonic-type bacteria proliferate in the small intestine, fermenting carbohydrates before they can be properly absorbed. This premature fermentation produces hydrogen, methane, or both—gases that can be measured on breath tests and that cause the characteristic symptoms of SIBO: bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, and nutrient malabsorption.[7]

The SIBO-IBS Connection

Research estimates that 14% to 40% of patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) also have SIBO, highlighting significant overlap between these conditions.[8] This connection matters because treatments that address bacterial overgrowth often improve IBS symptoms—and vice versa. Many clinical trials studying probiotics for SIBO have recruited IBS patients specifically, making the evidence base particularly relevant for those experiencing both conditions.

Given the significant overlap between SIBO and IBS diagnoses, it's worth exploring how Bifidobacterium infantis addresses core IBS symptoms like abdominal pain and altered bowel habits through immune modulation.

For those experiencing persistent digestive discomfort, understanding the relationship between specific probiotic strains and bloating relief provides valuable context.

Types of SIBO

Breath testing categorizes SIBO into three primary types based on which gases predominate: hydrogen-dominant (H-SIBO), methane-dominant (CH4-SIBO, now sometimes called intestinal methanogen overgrowth or IMO), and mixed hydrogen/methane SIBO. This distinction matters for treatment selection, as different bacterial populations produce different gases, and some probiotic strains may be more effective for certain SIBO types.[9]

The Probiotic Paradox: Why Adding Bacteria Can Help

At first glance, treating bacterial overgrowth by adding more bacteria seems illogical. But probiotics don't simply increase total bacterial counts—they work through several sophisticated mechanisms that can actually reduce pathogenic overgrowth and restore microbial balance.

Competitive Exclusion

Probiotic bacteria compete with pathogenic species for adhesion sites on the intestinal lining and for available nutrients. By occupying these ecological niches, beneficial bacteria can crowd out the overgrown species causing SIBO symptoms. This competitive exclusion represents one of the most fundamental mechanisms of probiotic action.[10]

Antimicrobial Compound Production

Many probiotic strains produce bacteriocins—antimicrobial peptides that inhibit the growth of competing bacteria. Bacillus species are particularly notable for this property, producing a range of antimicrobial compounds that can directly suppress pathogenic bacterial populations. This makes certain probiotics function almost like natural, targeted antibiotics.[2]

Immune Modulation

Probiotics interact with gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), modulating immune responses in ways that can help resolve bacterial overgrowth. They can enhance secretory IgA production, reduce inflammatory cytokines, and support the intestinal barrier—all factors relevant to SIBO management.[11]

Research Insight: Probiotics as Antibiotic Alternatives

A study comparing Bacillus clausii to the antibiotic metronidazole found that the probiotic achieved comparable breath test normalization rates—with 47% of probiotic users showing negative breath tests versus 40% in the antibiotic group. Notably, probiotic users reported fewer instances of diarrhea and nausea as side effects.[3]

What Meta-Analyses Reveal About Probiotics for SIBO

Individual studies provide valuable insights, but meta-analyses—which pool data from multiple clinical trials—offer the strongest evidence for treatment efficacy. Two major meta-analyses have examined probiotics for SIBO, and their findings are remarkably consistent.

The Zhong et al. Meta-Analysis (2017)

This comprehensive systematic review analyzed 18 eligible studies and remains the most cited meta-analysis on probiotics for SIBO. Key findings included:[1]

Meta-Analysis Results Summary

Outcome Measure Result Statistical Significance
SIBO Decontamination Rate 62.8% (pooled) RR=1.61 vs. non-probiotic (p<0.05)
Hydrogen Reduction -36.35 ppm WMD significant (p<0.05)
Abdominal Pain Scores Significantly decreased WMD=-1.17 (p<0.05)
SIBO Prevention Not effective RR=0.54 (p=0.24, not significant)

RR = Relative Risk; WMD = Weighted Mean Difference

Infographic showing meta-analysis results: 62.8% SIBO decontamination rate with probiotics

The meta-analysis concluded that while probiotics were not effective for preventing SIBO, they demonstrated significant efficacy for treating existing bacterial overgrowth—decontaminating SIBO, reducing hydrogen concentrations on breath tests, and relieving abdominal pain.

Network Meta-Analysis Findings (2025)

A more recent network meta-analysis compared various SIBO treatments head-to-head, including antibiotics, prokinetic agents, and probiotics. Probiotics ranked favorably against placebo (RR=3.35, 95% CI: 2.29-4.89 for SIBO eradication), though they were generally less effective than rifaximin as monotherapy. However, the analysis suggested that combining probiotics with other treatments may offer superior outcomes compared to single-agent approaches.[12]

The Spore-Forming Advantage: Why Bacillus Species Excel for SIBO

Among all probiotic categories, spore-forming bacteria—particularly Bacillus species—offer unique advantages for SIBO management that traditional Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains cannot match.

What Makes Spore-Forming Probiotics Different

Unlike conventional probiotics, Bacillus species form protective endospores—dormant structures that remain metabolically inactive until conditions favor germination. This means they pass through the stomach's acidic environment and the small intestine entirely intact, only "activating" when they reach the large intestine.

For SIBO patients, this targeted delivery is crucial: spore-forming probiotics don't contribute to bacterial populations in the small intestine where overgrowth occurs. Instead, they arrive at their destination—the colon—in full strength, ready to provide benefits without potentially worsening small intestinal bacterial counts.[2]

Diagram showing how spore-forming Bacillus probiotics remain dormant through the stomach and small intestine, only activating when they reach the large intestine

Bacillus coagulans: The Most-Studied Spore-Former

Bacillus coagulans has accumulated the most clinical evidence among spore-forming probiotics for digestive conditions overlapping with SIBO. A 2023 meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials found that B. coagulans significantly improved IBS symptoms including urgency, bowel habit satisfaction, straining, and overall symptom severity.[13]

Strain Spotlight: Bacillus coagulans Clinical Evidence

Key findings from clinical trials:

  • Randomized trial of 136 adults: Significant improvement in abdominal pain, complete spontaneous bowel movements, and quality of life compared to placebo[14]
  • Synbiotic study: 93.3% negative breath tests in the B. coagulans + FOS group versus 66.7% with antibiotics alone[5]
  • Functional gas and bloating trial: Significant reduction in GSRS indigestion scores (8.91 to 3.06) compared to placebo[15]

Bacillus clausii: Comparable to Antibiotics

Bacillus clausii demonstrated particularly impressive results in a study specifically designed to evaluate SIBO treatment. Forty patients with confirmed SIBO received 2 billion CFU of B. clausii three times daily for one month. Results showed a 47% decontamination rate—within the 20-75% range typically achieved with antibiotic therapy—with only one patient reporting constipation as a side effect.[3]

The antimicrobial properties of B. clausii include production of bacteriocins effective against several pathogenic bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecium, and Clostridium difficile.[16]

Bacillus subtilis: Emerging Evidence

Bacillus subtilis is currently being evaluated in clinical trials specifically designed for SIBO patients. A collaboration between Lallemand Health Solutions and Nimble Science is investigating B. subtilis R0179 for SIBO symptom relief, using innovative sampling technology to directly measure its effects on small intestinal bacteria—the first study of its kind.[17]

Spore-Forming Probiotics in a Comprehensive Formula

MicroBiome Restore includes five Bacillus species—B. coagulans, B. clausii, B. subtilis, B. licheniformis, and B. pumilus—alongside 21 additional probiotic strains. This comprehensive spore-forming probiotic approach provides the targeted delivery advantage crucial for SIBO management.

Explore MicroBiome Restore →

Evidence-Based Strains: What Clinical Research Supports

Beyond spore-forming bacteria, specific Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains have demonstrated efficacy for SIBO and SIBO-related symptoms in clinical trials. Understanding which strains have evidence—and for which outcomes—helps guide probiotic selection.

Lactobacillus Species

Strain Spotlight: Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. plantarum

A prospective trial examined a four-strain formula containing L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Saccharomyces boulardii in patients with IBS—some with confirmed SIBO, others without.

Results after 30 days:

  • IBS patients with SIBO: 71.3% decrease in total IBS symptom scores
  • IBS patients without SIBO: Only 10.6% decrease
  • The difference was statistically significant (p=0.017)

This study provided the first direct evidence that probiotic benefits may be greatest specifically in patients who have bacterial overgrowth.[4]

Lactobacillus casei: A pilot study using L. casei for six weeks in SIBO patients achieved a 64% negative breath test rate.[18] Another randomized trial combining multiple Lactobacillus species (L. rhamnosus, L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, and Enterococcus faecium) achieved 63.3% symptom improvement versus 28.3% with placebo.[19]

Lactobacillus rhamnosus: Often included in multi-strain formulations showing SIBO benefits. A six-strain formula including L. rhamnosus alleviated SIBO and gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with chronic liver disease.[6]

Understanding optimal dosing is crucial for effectiveness. Our comprehensive guide on Lactobacillus acidophilus clinical dosages covers evidence-based recommendations for various conditions.

Bifidobacterium Species

Bifidobacterium species feature prominently in multi-strain formulations with demonstrated SIBO efficacy:

  • B. lactis: Included in the four-strain formula showing 71.3% symptom improvement in SIBO patients[4]
  • B. bifidum, B. lactis, B. longum: Part of a six-species formula that alleviated SIBO in chronic liver disease patients[6]
  • B. infantis: Included in probiotic combinations showing 71.4% SIBO conversion rates in pregnant women[20]

Low Bifidobacterium levels are associated with various digestive issues. Learn more about Bifidobacterium deficiency and its symptoms.

A Note on Methane-Dominant SIBO

One study found that recent probiotic use was associated with more methane-positive breath tests, raising questions about whether certain probiotics might increase methane production in some individuals.[21] However, this association doesn't necessarily mean probiotics caused methane-dominant SIBO—people with GI symptoms may be more likely to use probiotics. Research shows combined antibiotic and probiotic therapy improved outcomes even in methane-dominant cases.[22] Individual monitoring remains important.

The Multi-Strain Approach: Why Combinations Work Better

A consistent finding across SIBO research is that multi-strain probiotic formulations outperform single-strain products. This pattern emerges repeatedly in clinical trials and aligns with our understanding of how the gut microbiome functions as an ecosystem.

Clinical Evidence for Multi-Strain Superiority

The studies showing the strongest SIBO benefits have used combinations rather than single strains:

  • Four-strain formula (S. boulardii, B. lactis, L. acidophilus, L. plantarum): 71.3% symptom reduction in SIBO patients[4]
  • Six-strain formula (B. bifidum, B. lactis, B. longum, L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, S. thermophilus): Alleviated SIBO and GI symptoms[6]
  • Four-strain Lactobacillus formula + Enterococcus faecium: 63.3% symptom improvement versus 28.3% placebo[19]

For a deeper understanding of why strain diversity matters, our guide on single vs. multi-strain probiotics examines the research in detail.

Why Multiple Strains Work Better

Several mechanisms explain multi-strain superiority:

Complementary mechanisms: Different strains work through different pathways. Bacillus species produce antimicrobial compounds; Lactobacillus strains compete for adhesion sites; Bifidobacterium species produce beneficial short-chain fatty acids. Combining them provides synergistic benefits.

Broader coverage: The overgrown bacteria in SIBO vary between individuals. Multi-strain formulations are more likely to include species effective against the specific bacteria present in any given case.

Ecological stability: Multi-strain combinations more closely resemble the natural diversity of a healthy gut microbiome, potentially creating more stable and lasting changes than single strains.

Comparison showing single-strain probiotics with limited mechanisms versus multi-strain formulas

The 26-Strain Approach

MicroBiome Restore takes the multi-strain approach to its logical conclusion, combining 26 different probiotic strains across seven probiotic categories: Bifidobacterium (5 strains), Lactobacillus (11 strains), Bacillus (5 strains), plus Enterococcus, Lactococcus, Pediococcus, and Streptococcus species. This comprehensive diversity—delivered at 15 billion CFU per serving—provides the broad spectrum of mechanisms that clinical research suggests works best for digestive conditions.

Learn more about each strain's specific benefits in our complete MicroBiome Restore guide.

Treatment Strategies: Integrating Probiotics with SIBO Management

Flowchart showing three SIBO probiotic treatment strategies: during antibiotic treatment, maintenance after antibiotics, and standalone therapy

The question of when to use probiotics for SIBO—during antibiotic treatment, after, or as standalone therapy—has been addressed in multiple clinical trials with generally positive findings for various approaches.

Probiotics During Antibiotic Treatment

Several studies demonstrate benefits from combining probiotics with antibiotics for SIBO:

  • Patients receiving Saccharomyces boulardii alongside rifaximin and neomycin showed normalization of short-chain fatty acid profiles and better outcomes than antibiotics alone[10]
  • Combined antibiotic + probiotic therapy improved clinical outcomes even in methane-dominant SIBO cases[22]

The Synbiotic Maintenance Strategy

One of the most compelling studies used probiotics as part of a maintenance regimen following initial antibiotic treatment:

Synbiotic Maintenance Trial Results

After three weeks of broad-spectrum antibiotics, SIBO patients were randomized to receive either:

  • Synbiotic group: 15 days/month of Bacillus coagulans + fructooligosaccharides (Lactol), alternating with 15 days/month of minocycline
  • Control group: 15 days/month of minocycline alone, followed by 15 days of nothing

Results after 6 months:

  • Synbiotic group: 93.3% negative breath tests
  • Control group: 66.7% negative breath tests
  • Complete resolution of abdominal pain in synbiotic group
  • Significant improvement in flatulence, belching, and diarrhea[5]

This study suggests that combining probiotics with prebiotics (synbiotics) during the maintenance phase may significantly improve long-term SIBO outcomes.

Standalone Probiotic Therapy

For those preferring to avoid antibiotics, the Bacillus clausii study demonstrates that probiotics can achieve meaningful SIBO decontamination as monotherapy—47% versus the 20-75% typically seen with antibiotics.[3] This approach may be particularly relevant for patients with recurrent SIBO who wish to minimize antibiotic exposure.

Timing Considerations

When taking probiotics for SIBO, consistency matters more than exact timing, though taking them with meals may improve survival through the stomach. For detailed guidance, see our article on the best time to take probiotics.

Important Considerations and Limitations

SIBO Recurrence

SIBO recurrence rates are high—up to 43% within 9 months of antibiotic treatment.[8] This makes ongoing management strategies, including probiotic maintenance, particularly relevant. Addressing underlying causes (motility disorders, structural abnormalities, medication effects) remains essential for long-term success.

Individual Variation

Response to probiotics varies significantly between individuals. Factors including the specific bacteria causing overgrowth, SIBO type (hydrogen vs. methane dominant), underlying conditions, and individual microbiome composition all influence outcomes. What works dramatically for one person may have minimal effect for another.

Quality Matters

Probiotic products vary enormously in quality. Key factors to consider:

  • CFU count: Clinical trials typically use 2-10+ billion CFU. Products with very low counts may be ineffective.
  • Strain specificity: Generic "Lactobacillus acidophilus" isn't the same as specific studied strains. Look for products that specify strain designations.
  • Viability: Probiotics must be alive to work. Quality manufacturing, appropriate storage, and expiration dating all matter.
  • Filler-free formulations: Some additives like microcrystalline cellulose may cause digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

Understanding what makes a quality probiotic helps you make informed choices. Our guide to the top 10 probiotic strains for gut health covers strain-specific evidence.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

While probiotics are generally safe, SIBO is a medical condition that benefits from professional guidance. Consider consulting a gastroenterologist or functional medicine practitioner if you experience severe symptoms, haven't responded to initial treatments, have underlying conditions that may cause SIBO, or are unsure whether SIBO is the correct diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can probiotics make SIBO worse?

While some practitioners have expressed concern about this possibility, the clinical evidence doesn't support it for most patients. The major meta-analysis found probiotics significantly improved SIBO outcomes with a 62.8% decontamination rate.[1] However, individual responses vary, and some evidence suggests certain probiotics may increase methane levels in methane-dominant cases. Monitoring symptoms and adjusting accordingly is wise.

Should I take probiotics during SIBO antibiotic treatment?

Yes, several studies demonstrate benefits from combining probiotics with antibiotics for SIBO treatment. The synbiotic study showed significantly better outcomes with combined therapy.[5] Spore-forming probiotics are particularly suitable during antibiotic therapy because they're resistant to most antibiotics.[2]

Which probiotic strains are best for SIBO?

Based on current evidence, the strongest support exists for: Bacillus coagulans (93% negative breath tests in synbiotic study), Bacillus clausii (47% decontamination as monotherapy), and multi-strain combinations including L. acidophilus, L. plantarum, and B. lactis (71.3% symptom improvement in SIBO patients). Single strains are generally less effective than combinations.[1][4][5]

How long should I take probiotics for SIBO?

Clinical trials have ranged from 2 weeks to 6 months. The synbiotic maintenance study showing the best results used a 6-month protocol.[5] Given SIBO's high recurrence rate, ongoing probiotic use as part of a maintenance strategy may be beneficial for many patients.

Can probiotics alone treat SIBO without antibiotics?

Yes, in some cases. Bacillus clausii achieved 47% SIBO decontamination as standalone therapy—within the range of many antibiotic treatments.[3] However, combination approaches (probiotics + antibiotics, or probiotics + dietary modifications) often show better results than either alone.

Are there probiotics I should avoid with SIBO?

Some evidence suggests caution with methane-dominant SIBO and certain strains. Bifidobacterium infantis 35624 increased methane production in one study.[21] However, this doesn't mean all Bifidobacterium should be avoided—multi-strain formulations including Bifidobacterium species have shown benefits in SIBO patients. Individual monitoring and working with a healthcare provider can help identify what works for you.

Do I need to refrigerate probiotics for SIBO?

This depends on the formulation. Spore-forming probiotics (Bacillus species) are inherently shelf-stable and don't require refrigeration. Some Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains are more temperature-sensitive. Quality products will specify storage requirements.

Moving Forward with Evidence-Based Probiotic Support

The research is clear: strategically chosen probiotics can be a valuable component of SIBO management. Meta-analyses demonstrate significant benefits for SIBO decontamination, symptom relief, and hydrogen level reduction. Spore-forming Bacillus species offer the unique advantage of bypassing the small intestine entirely, while multi-strain formulations consistently outperform single-strain products in clinical trials.

For those dealing with SIBO, the evidence supports considering probiotics as part of a comprehensive approach—whether combined with antibiotic therapy, used as maintenance following treatment, or in some cases as standalone therapy. The key lies in choosing formulations with clinical evidence: spore-forming strains, specific Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species shown to help, and multi-strain diversity that addresses SIBO through multiple mechanisms.

Understanding how specific probiotic strains interact with bacterial overgrowth represents an evolving area of research. As new studies emerge—including ongoing trials with Bacillus subtilis specifically designed for SIBO—our ability to match patients with optimal probiotic strategies will only improve.

For those experiencing signs of Lactobacillus deficiency alongside SIBO symptoms, addressing both issues simultaneously through comprehensive probiotic support may provide the most complete solution.

Comprehensive Probiotic Support for Digestive Health

MicroBiome Restore delivers 26 probiotic strains at 15 billion CFU—including the spore-forming Bacillus species, Lactobacillus strains, and Bifidobacterium species with the strongest clinical evidence for SIBO-related symptoms. Combined with 9 organic prebiotic ingredients and completely free of fillers like magnesium stearate or microcrystalline cellulose.

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References

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  2. Urdaci, M. C., Bressollier, P., & Pinchuk, I. (2004). Bacillus clausii probiotic strains: antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 38(6 Suppl), S86-S90. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15220665/
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  22. García-Collinot, G., Madrigal-Santillán, E. O., Martínez-Bencomo, M. A., Carranza-Muleiro, R. A., Jara, L. J., Vera-Lastra, O., ... & Cruz-Domínguez, M. P. (2020). Effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii and Metronidazole for Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth in Systemic Sclerosis. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 65(4), 1134-1143. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31549334/

About BioPhysics Essentials

BioPhysics Essentials is committed to providing science-backed, filler-free supplements that support optimal gut health. Our formulations are designed with a single priority: your wellness—never manufacturing convenience.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your supplement regimen, especially if you have been diagnosed with SIBO or other digestive conditions.

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Nicholas Wunder is the founder of BioPhysics Essentials. With a degree in Biology and a background in neuroscience and microbiology, he created Gut Check to cut through supplement industry marketing noise and share what the research actually says about gut health.