Joanna Evans roots out premium probiotics for looking after your brain
Probiotics aren’t just good for your gut, they’re vital for brain health too, says Dr David Perlmutter, neurologist and author of Brain Maker (Little, Brown Spark, 2015) and Brain Defenders (Avery, August 2026). He recommends five core species to look out for when choosing a probiotic supplement:
These beneficial bacteria help to maintain a healthy gut microbiome, fortify the gut lining, regulate immune function, reduce inflammation and support brain health.
Besides the species, there are several other factors to consider when selecting a supplement.
Science-backed strains. Keep an eye out for specific named strains that have been studied in clinical trials. For example, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® has been researched for its role in supporting gut and immune health.
CFU count. Colony-forming units (CFU) tell you the number of live microorganisms in each dose. Many experts recommend at least 10 billion CFU per daily serving, but bear in mind that a higher count does not necessarily equal a more effective product. The strains used, their ability to reach the gut alive and the quality of the manufacturing process are often more significant.
Excipients. These are the inactive ingredients in a supplement, and the fewer the better. Check the ingredients list on the label or website to make sure you’re not getting any unnecessary extras, like sugars, sweeteners, fillers, and artificial colorings and preservatives. Also watch out for allergens if you have any allergies or intolerances
Quality control. Choose brands that follow Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards and use independent testing to verify factors such as potency (the dosage is what it claims to be on the label) and purity (it’s free of potentially harmful contaminants). If you’re not sure, get in touch with the company to check.
Storage. Check the storage conditions on the label, as some probiotics require refrigeration. If you travel a lot, a shelf-stable probiotic may be a better option for you.
Here’s a selection of high-quality products containing at least three of the species recommended by Dr Perlmutter. Refrigeration is recommended for all of them to ensure potency.
US and UK
Garden of Life
Dr. Formulated Probiotics Once Daily Ultra, $45.59/£42.30 (30 capsules)
US: gardenoflife.co; UK: uk.iherb.com
Formulated by Dr David Perlmutter himself, this once-daily probiotic provides 90 billion CFU per capsule and 15 probiotic strains, including strains of B. lactis, B. longum, L. brevis, L. plantarum and the clinically researched L. acidophilus NCFM® strain. It also contains a prebiotic fiber blend and minimal excipients.
SFI Health
Ther-Biotic® Complete, $52.99/£46.51(60 capsules)
US: us.sfihealth.com; UK: breakspearmedical.com
This hypoallergenic formula features L. plantarum, L. acidophilus, B. lactis and B. longum along with eight other probiotic species in a base of inulin from chicory root. Each capsule provides 25 billion CFU and uses InTactic® acid-stable delivery technology, a polysaccharide complex from seaweed, to ensure optimal survival and maximum effectiveness throughout the digestive tract.
Designs for Health
Probiotic Supreme DF, $105.49/£83 (60 capsules)
US: designsforhealth.com; UK: healf.com
Practitioner-focused Designs for Health is fully transparent about the specific eight research-backed strains included in this formula, which include B. lactis UABla‑12, L. acidophilus UALa‑01 and B. longum UABl‑14. Each one-caplet serving supplies 15 billion CFU in patented delivery technology that helps protect the live organisms from harsh stomach conditions. The downsides are the high price tag and a few more excipients than we’d like to see.
UK
Barefoot Nutrition
Advanced Live Culture Formula (Probiotic), £39.99 (60 capsules)
barefootnutrition.co.uk
Developed with leading microbiologists and delivering 50 billion CFU per capsule, this high-potency formula contains 11 probiotic strains—including all five of the species recommended by Dr Perlmutter—and no unnecessary fillers. It’s made in the UK in GMP-certified facilities and third-party tested for purity and potency.
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