What probiotic brand has Lactobacillus acidophilus?

December 19, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the National Institutes of Health, beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus play a crucial role in supporting the body's natural defenses and overall wellness. For those seeking this specific strain, knowing what probiotic brand has Lactobacillus acidophilus is the first step toward finding a quality supplement for your gut health.

Quick Summary

Several brands, including NOW Foods, Nature's Bounty, and Garden of Life, offer probiotics containing Lactobacillus acidophilus to support digestive wellness and a balanced gut flora.

Key Points

NOW Foods offers L. acidophilus: Both standalone and multi-strain formulas from NOW Foods contain verified L. acidophilus for gut health.
Nature's Bounty is a budget-friendly option: Its Acidophilus Probiotic product is a simple, effective choice for replenishing friendly bacteria.
Garden of Life provides a comprehensive blend: Many of their Dr. Formulated products feature L. acidophilus alongside numerous other strains and beneficial ingredients.
Consider CFU and delivery: The number of colony-forming units (CFUs) and the delivery method (e.g., acid-resistant capsules) are key to a probiotic's effectiveness.
L. acidophilus supports digestion and immunity: This strain promotes a healthy intestinal flora, which in turn aids digestion and strengthens immune function.
Look for synbiotic products for added benefits: Supplements that combine L. acidophilus with prebiotics can boost the bacteria's colonization in the gut.

Brands Containing Lactobacillus acidophilus

Many consumers search specifically for the Lactobacillus acidophilus strain because of its well-regarded benefits for digestive and immune health. Several reputable supplement brands include this specific probiotic in their formulas, either as a standalone ingredient or as part of a multi-strain blend. It's important to read the product label carefully, as some products may feature acidophilus prominently while containing other strains as well. The viability of the organisms is also a critical factor, so look for products that guarantee potency through the expiration date.

Prominent Probiotic Brands

NOW Foods: Offers several products featuring L. acidophilus, such as their standalone Acidophilus formula and the multi-strain Probiotic-10. Their capsules are designed to be acid-resistant to ensure the live organisms reach the intestines.
Nature's Bounty: Known for its Acidophilus Probiotic supplement, which contains a substantial count of L. acidophilus to support the digestive system.
Garden of Life: Many of its Dr. Formulated probiotic blends, including those for women, contain diverse strains including L. acidophilus. These formulas often incorporate prebiotics and digestive enzymes for enhanced efficacy.
Transparent Labs: This brand includes L. acidophilus as part of its Gut Health formula, alongside other beneficial strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
Nutricost: Offers a budget-friendly Lactobaccilus Acidophilus product, often in multi-strain formulations.
Solgar: The Advanced Acidophilus Plus supplement provides a blend of beneficial bacteria, including L. acidophilus.

How to Choose the Right Probiotic

Selecting the right probiotic requires more than just confirming the presence of L. acidophilus. It's essential to consider several other factors to ensure the product meets your specific health goals.

Factors to Consider

Potency (CFU): The number of colony-forming units (CFUs) indicates the amount of live bacteria in each dose. Different products offer a wide range of CFUs, from millions to billions.
Strain Diversity: Multi-strain probiotics may offer a wider range of benefits for different areas of the gut. Check if the formula includes other complementary strains like Bifidobacterium lactis.
Delivery Method: Capsules should be acid-resistant to protect the live cultures from stomach acid. Alternatively, refrigerated probiotics and specific delivery systems are designed to maximize viability.
Prebiotics: Some products, known as synbiotics, combine probiotics with prebiotics (food for the good bacteria), which can help the strains colonize and flourish in the gut.
Shelf Stability: While some probiotics require refrigeration, many modern formulas are shelf-stable. Always check the label for storage instructions.

Comparison of Popular Brands


Brand	Featured L. acidophilus Product	CFU Count (Typical)	Shelf Stability	Key Features
NOW Foods	Acidophilus, Probiotic-10	2 billion (Acidophilus); 25+ billion (Probiotic-10)	Requires refrigeration (Acidophilus), shelf-stable (Probiotic-10)	Diverse multi-strain options, strain verified, non-GMO, vegan
Nature's Bounty	Acidophilus Probiotic	100+ million	Refrigerate after opening	Dairy-free, no artificial flavors, supports digestive function
Garden of Life	Dr. Formulated Once Daily	34+ strains, 85+ billion CFU (Women's blend)	Shelf-stable	Raw, whole food ingredients, non-GMO, includes prebiotics
Transparent Labs	Gut Health	100 billion	Shelf-stable	Informed Choice certified, vegan, includes multiple strains
Nutricost	Lactobaccilus Acidophilus	Varies by option	Shelf-stable	Budget-friendly option, non-GMO, manufactured in GMP-compliant facility

Benefits of Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a well-studied probiotic strain with numerous potential health benefits, primarily centered on its role in maintaining a balanced microbiome. It helps break down lactose, produces lactic acid, and can create a less hospitable environment for less-desirable microorganisms. The health benefits extend beyond the gut, contributing to overall wellness.

Research-Supported Advantages

Digestive Harmony: Helps to restore and maintain a balanced intestinal flora, which can soothe occasional digestive issues like bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort.
Immune System Support: The gut is closely linked to the immune system. By supporting a healthy gut, L. acidophilus contributes to immune function.
Vaginal Health: For women, certain strains of L. acidophilus help maintain a healthy vaginal flora, protecting against imbalances.
Nutrient Absorption: A healthy gut is more efficient at absorbing nutrients from food, and a balanced microbiome promoted by L. acidophilus can enhance this process.

Conclusion

Numerous reliable brands offer probiotics containing the beneficial strain Lactobacillus acidophilus. While names like NOW Foods, Nature's Bounty, and Garden of Life are prominent, the ideal choice depends on individual needs, desired potency, and the presence of complementary ingredients like prebiotics. To make an informed decision, always examine the product's CFU count, delivery format, and any supporting ingredients to ensure you are selecting the most effective supplement for your personal health goals. Consulting a healthcare professional can also provide tailored guidance based on your specific health profile.

Note: For more detailed information on specific probiotic strains and their effects, refer to reputable health resources such as Drugs.com, a site that provides comprehensive information on pharmaceuticals and supplements.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary function of Lactobacillus acidophilus is to produce lactic acid, which helps to maintain a healthy acidic environment in the intestines. This action helps support a balanced intestinal flora and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria.

No, not all probiotics contain Lactobacillus acidophilus. Many different bacterial strains are used in probiotic supplements, and their specific inclusion depends on the product's intended purpose. Always check the ingredients list to confirm the presence of L. acidophilus.

Look for products that guarantee potency through the expiration date and use acid-resistant delivery methods, such as special capsules. This ensures the live cultures survive the journey through the stomach to reach the intestines where they are most effective.

While a higher CFU count can be beneficial, it's not the only factor. The quality of the strains, the diversity of bacteria, and the product's ability to deliver the live cultures to the gut are also crucial for effectiveness. Look for a balanced formula from a reputable brand.

Yes, Lactobacillus acidophilus is found naturally in fermented foods like some yogurts, kefir, and sauerkraut. However, the concentration and viability of the bacteria in supplements are often more standardized and controlled.

Most people tolerate probiotics well. However, some may experience mild side effects like gas or bloating, especially when first starting. These symptoms usually subside as the body adjusts to the new balance of gut flora.

A probiotic contains live beneficial bacteria, such as L. acidophilus. A synbiotic combines probiotics with prebiotics, which are non-digestible fibers that act as food to nourish and promote the growth of the probiotics in the gut.