You might have heard about how probiotics are beneficial for your gut and overall wellbeing. But if you do an online search, finding the right one for your needs can be confusing.
There are so many brands and types out there to choose from (my own local pharmacy website brought up 167 results!).
In this review, we’re taking an in-depth look at Microbiome Plus+, a company that produces a range of health supplements.
It’s not one of the big brands on the market, but it’s been slowly gaining interest in the health community over several years. Their most popular product is the Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242, and will be the focus of this review.
What I found unique about it was the fact that it only contains 1 active ingredient, which makes it ideal for those that want a targeted supplement. This way, you can be more assured that any effects you see are from this ingredient alone.
We’ll be covering everything you need to know about it, including its benefits, the research behind it, and what others are saying about this probiotic. Hopefully, you’ll then have all the information you need to decide whether it’s the right probiotic for your health.
What is the Microbiome?
The term “microbiome” refers to all microbes that live in a particular environment – on or inside our bodies. This includes fungi, bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. [1]
Most of us hear the words “bacteria” and “virus” and associate them with something that’s harmful to our health. However, certain microbes are actually essential for the healthy functioning of our bodies.
Our microbiome helps us digest our food, regulate our immune system, and protect us against other disease-causing bacteria. [2]
They also help to produce essential vitamins such as B vitamins B12, riboflavin, and thiamine. [3]
When things get out of balance, microbiome dysfunction can lead to autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. And it’s also been related to conditions like muscular dystrophy, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis. [4]
How are Probiotic Supplements Beneficial to Our Microbiome?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that boost the “good” microbes that are part of our microbiome.
In fact, you’re probably already consuming some kind of probiotics, as it’s present in common foods like yogurt and other fermented foods.
Probiotics are also present in dietary supplements and some beauty products. [5]
According to NIH, there is promising research showing that probiotics can help prevent or treat gastrointestinal disorders and allergies. [5]
However, the benefits of probiotics can go beyond gut health. For example, probiotics have been found to be helpful in breaking down excess bile (a natural fluid that’s made out of cholesterol) in the gut.
This helps to lower cholesterol levels, which is beneficial for our heart health. [6]
According to other research, having a good gut can result in a better immune system, reduce stress levels, and even improve symptoms of mental health conditions such as anxiety, autism, OCD, and depression. [7]
15% off subscriptions: Microbiome Plus+
What is Microbiome Plus+?
Microbiome Plus+ offers a line of products meant to help users improve their gastrointestinal and digestive health, which ultimately also impacts immunity, cardiovascular health, and overall wellness.
Their main product is the probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242 probiotic strain (one of the few to be granted GRAS status), which is the one we will be focusing on here.
Bestseller | Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242 |
Potential Benefits | Digestive health Supports healthy metabolism and bile health Builds immunity Support normal inflammatory response Cardiovascular health Better mood, energy, and overall wellbeing |
Bottle Size | 56 capsules |
Recommended serving | 1 capsule, twice daily |
Price | From $28.89 per bottle (Save when you subscribe) |
Shipping | Currently free within the US |
Reviews | 4.4/5 stars based on 262 global ratings |
GRAS status | Yes – Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) |
FDA-approved | No, but manufactured in GMP-certified US facilities |
Special Offers | 15% off subscriptions: Microbiome Plus+ |
Other Products
Gastrointestinal Combo: Probiotic L. Reuteri NCIMB 30242 & Prebiotic scFOS Fiber
Prebiotic: scFOS Fiber – Boosts Probiotic Benefits
Premium Digestive Enzymes: 18 Plant-Based Enzymes
Super Digest Enzyme: Advanced Pancreatin
Colon Cleanse: Probiotic Natural Detox
15% off subscriptions: Microbiome Plus+
Microbiome Plus+ Review
Microbiome Plus+ creates a range of health supplements that are designed to support people’s gut health and overall wellness.
Special Offer on Microbiome Plus+
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
What are the benefits of Microbiome Plus+ Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242?
Lactobacillus Reuteri (L. Reuteri) is a probiotic bacterium and is the main ingredient in this product.
It’s already naturally present in human beings and is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract and the urinary tract.
It’s also present in the skin and even in breast milk. [7]
Studies have shown that the main benefits of Microbiome Plus+ Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242 include:
- Maintaining a healthy gut by stimulating gut lining repair and supporting normal fat digestion. [8, 9]
- Reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol by breaking down excess bile (which is made of cholesterol). [5, 10]
- Supports healthy metabolism and bile health by stimulating the production of bile salt hydrolase. [11]
- Builds immunity by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microbes. [7]
- Supports normal inflammatory response by stimulating the production of biogenic amines as part of standard metabolic processes. [12]
- Better mood, energy, and overall wellbeing. [13]
Here’s a look at some further benefits of Microbiome Plus+ and why it stands out from other probiotics on the market:
15% off subscriptions: Microbiome Plus+
You might have heard about how probiotics are beneficial for
- Delayed-Release Capsule Design: Microbiome Plus+ has delayed-release capsules that only disintegrate further along our digestive tract. This allows for better absorption and maximum impact on our health.
- Good for those who suffer from acid reflux: Since capsules only dissolve later during digestion, consumers experience less after-taste and odor.
- Developed by doctors: Their products are put through rigorous testing and research, and the website even displays studies to back up their claims that you can freely access online.
- Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) designation: This is a status that the FDA awards, and it means that it is considered safe for human consumption. Not all probiotic supplements have this designation.
- Specialized production facilities to ensure high quality: the Microbiome Plus+ manufacturing process takes place in a facility that’s specifically designed for probiotic fermentation, and it is licensed by the Department of Agriculture.
- Allergen-free: does not contain milk, peanuts, eggs, fish, soybeans, shellfish, tree nuts, mustard-based products, sesame seed-based products, mollusks, sulfur dioxide, or sulfites.
Microbiome Plus Price Comparison |
||
One-off purchase | Subscription (monthly) | |
1-pack | $39.99/bottle | $33.99/bottle |
3-pack | $35.99/bottle | $30.59/bottle |
6-pack | $33.99/bottle | $28.89/bottle |
Shipping | Currently free within the US |
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
Microbiome Plus+ Complementary Products
Here’s a quick look at other products from Microbiome Plus+ that are worth mentioning.
Some are complementary to the Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242, while others are stand-alone supplements for other purposes:
- Microbiome Plus+ Prebiotics scFOS Prebiotic Fiber. Boosts probiotic benefits by stimulating the growth of helpful microbes: Prebiotic scFOS
- Microbiome Plus+ Super Digest Enzyme Advanced Pancreatin. Contains digestive enzymes that might free you from these digestive issues like acid reflux, belching, and bloating: Super Digest Enzyme
- Microbiome Plus+ Premium Digestive Enzymes (18 Plant-Based Enzymes). Supports healthy digestion and prevents post-meal gassiness and bloating through natural, plant-based enzymes: Premium Digestive Enzymes
- Microbiome Plus+ Colon Cleanse Probiotic Natural Detox. Effective for colon cleanings as it delivers laxative relief for users who suffer from digestive issues: Colon Cleanse
Special Offer on Microbiome Plus+
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
Microbiome Plus+ Reviews: What Are Customers Saying?
Based on our research, users generally had great things to say about Microbiome Plus+ products. It received an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon based on 262 global ratings.
Here a brief summary of the Pros and Cons of Microbiome Plus+ from customer reviews.
Pros:
Those happy with Microbiome Plus+ found that it:
- Helped those with digestive issues to ease bloating, gassiness, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Several believed that it also helped to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
- Many liked that it wasn’t a mix of probiotics and that they knew they were getting the exact supplement cited in the research studies.
- People actually went for blood tests and found differences in the Vitamin D levels and Folate after taking Microbiome Plus+.
- Some mentioned it was better than other brands they’ve tried in the past.
- Worked as a mood stabilizer for some.
Cons
- Some experienced minor side effects: headaches or gastrointestinal distress. This is to be expected as no supplement can be effective for 100% of customers.
- Gellen gum ingredient may have caused digestive issues for those with IBS.
Special Offer on Microbiome Plus+
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
15% off subscriptions: Microbiome Plus+
Is Microbiome Plus+ Worth It?
Microbiome Plus+ Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri is worth spending on to improve your digestive system, cardiovascular health, and immunity.
It’s best for people who want a minimalistic supplement that only contains the Lactobacillus Reuteri probiotic.
With other supplements that contain a whole combination of ingredients, you might not know which one is working for you or isn’t.
Microbiome Plus+ takes this guesswork out of the equation, and you can narrow down any effects to this one probiotic.
The product has hundreds of positive reports saying that it had a positive effect on peoples’ digestion, cholesterol, and overall wellbeing.
The delayed-release capsule design helps those who have acid reflux or problems swallowing other supplements because of the after-taste.
Of course, the best way to know if it will work for you is by trying it. And as a science-backed supplement with positive reviews from hundreds of customers, I would say it’s worth testing a bottle to see if it works for you.
Special Offers
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
Microbiome Plus+ FAQs
Which is the best probiotic?
The best probiotic depends on the needs of each individual. We found Microbiome Plus+ Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242 to be a reliable brand with hundreds of positive reviews.
Is there a probiotic that actually works?
L. Reuteri, which is the active ingredient in Microbiome Plus+ Probiotic Lactobacillus Reuteri NCIMB 30242, is one of the most researched probiotics. It has been shown to be effective in improving digestion, heart health, and more.
What happens to your body when you start taking probiotics?
When you start taking probiotics, your body starts building a more balanced gastrointestinal environment by filling your microbiome (the collective bacteria that’s inside and on your body) with helpful microbes. This can result in other positive effects like improved immunity, cardiovascular health, and more.
Do I need a prescription to take Microbiome Plus+?
No, Microbiome Plus+ is a dietary supplement and does not require a prescription.
Is Microbiome Plus+ for everyone?
No, you should not take Microbiome Plus+ if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. It is also not advisable for those who are nursing. This probiotic supplement is not intended for those under 18 years of age.
You should consult your doctor before trying a dietary supplement, especially if you have underlying medical conditions. Your doctor can advise you on whether a supplement might counteract any medication you are taking.
Where can I purchase Microbiome Plus+?
This probiotic dietary supplement is available on the Microbiome Plus+ website.
Can I use Microbiome Plus+ as a replacement for my multivitamins?
No, this product is a probiotic dietary supplement and is not a replacement for multivitamins.
Special Offers
15% off when you subscribe: Microbiome Plus+
References
- Why the gut microbiome is crucial for your health, Healthline
- Fast facts about the human microbiome, University of Washington
- The microbiome in autoimmune diseases, Clinical and Experimental Immunology
- Probiotics: What you need to know, National Institute of Health
- Cholesterol-lowering probiotics as potential biotherapeutics for metabolic diseases, Experimental Diabetes Research
- Can Probiotics Improve Your Mood, Hopkins Medicine
- Role of Lactobacillus reuteri in Human Health and Diseases, Frontiers in Microbiology
- Improvement of gastrointestinal health status in subjects consuming Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 capsules: a post-hoc analysis of a randomized controlled trial, Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy
- Lactobacillus reuteri maintains intestinal epithelial regeneration and repairs damaged intestinal mucosa, Gut Microbes
- Cholesterol lowering and inhibition of sterol absorption by Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242: a randomized controlled trial, European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
- Changes in bile acids, FGF-19 and sterol absorption in response to bile salt hydrolase active L. reuteri NCIMB 30242, Gut Microbes
- The potential therapeutic role of Lactobacillus reuteri for treatment of inflammatory bowel disease, American Journal of Translational Research
- Lactobacilli Can Reverse Depression Symptoms, Study Finds, Sci News
- Human gut microbiota and its relationship to health and disease, NIH
- Bile salt hydrolase activity in probiotics, NIH