How to Not Get Scammed When Buying Probiotics

First off, go for brands that use clinical studies to formulate their products. "It's also important to look for a probiotic that contains prebiotics and pharmaceutical grade ingredients and to choose a probiotic that has been lab tested to ensure the probiotics in the product can actually reach your small intestine," says Axelrod. Buying DNA-verified is also something to consider as it means a third party has tested the products to confirm what it says on the label is what's in the bottle.

Further, many people spend a premium to buy refrigerated probiotics, but if refrigeration is missed at a specific step between manufacturing and a consumer purchasing it, the bacteria will die. "You also have to wonder, if these bacteria can't survive if not refrigerated how are they going to make it alive to your bowels?" says Dr. Faramarzi.

Looking for somewhere to start? Some brands that have come up in speaking with a number of experts include: The Nue Co. Debloat Food + Prebiotic, Probiogen and Seed.

Image via @thenue_co