Probiotics for bloating and gas
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Probiotics for Bloating and Gas: Clinical Evidence
Probiotic Strains and Their Effects on Bloating and Gas
Several clinical studies have shown that specific probiotic strains can help reduce symptoms of bloating and gas in both healthy adults and those with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Bacillus coagulans, in particular, has demonstrated significant improvements in gas, bloating, and abdominal pain in adults with functional gas and bloating as well as in patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) 26. Participants taking Bacillus coagulans reported greater reductions in symptom scores compared to placebo, with no significant adverse effects 26.
Bacillus subtilis has also been studied for its effects on gas-related symptoms. One study found that Bacillus subtilis BS50 supplementation increased the proportion of healthy adults experiencing improvement in bloating, burping, and flatulence compared to placebo . Another study with Bacillus subtilis ATCC 122264 found no overall difference from placebo in the general population, but women taking the probiotic experienced significant reductions in belching and flatulence, as well as improved daily life impact from flatulence .
Other probiotic combinations, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, have been shown to improve bloating symptoms in patients with functional bowel disorders, including those with IBS . Similarly, a blend of Saccharomyces boulardii and Enterococcus faecium reduced gastric pain and bloating in airline pilots with chronic non-atrophic gastritis, with high-dose supplementation showing additional benefits for gastric health markers .
Multi-Strain and Probiotic-Enzyme Blends
Multi-strain probiotic formulations have also been effective. A study using a probiotic pill containing seven bacterial strains found significant reductions in both the frequency and severity of abdominal bloating, as well as borborygmus (stomach rumbling), compared to placebo and another treatment . A probiotic-amylase blend was shown to reduce bloating, abdominal discomfort, and overall gastrointestinal symptom scores more than placebo in adults with mild to moderate GI symptoms .
Probiotics in Healthy Adults
Even in healthy adults, probiotic supplementation has been associated with reductions in bloating, stomach pains, and other GI discomforts, although the response can vary depending on the specific probiotic formulation used .
Safety and Considerations
Most studies report that probiotics are well tolerated and safe for use in adults, with few or no adverse events 1236+1 MORE. However, there is evidence that in rare cases, especially in individuals with small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), probiotic use may be associated with increased gas, bloating, and even D-lactic acidosis, which can cause brain fogginess. In such cases, discontinuing probiotics and using antibiotics led to symptom improvement .
Conclusion
Clinical evidence supports the use of certain probiotics—especially Bacillus coagulans, Bacillus subtilis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and multi-strain blends—for reducing bloating and gas in both healthy adults and those with functional gastrointestinal disorders. Effects can be strain-specific and may vary by individual, with some evidence of greater benefit in women for certain strains. Probiotics are generally safe, but individuals with persistent or severe symptoms should consult a healthcare provider, especially if SIBO is suspected.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic