Probiotics are no longer just a “one bottle fits all” supplement. As their popularity has skyrocketed, so has the variety of targeted formulas - including blends created specifically for men or for women. While the basics of how probiotics work are the same, our biology, hormones, and lifestyle habits can shape which strains give us the best results. That means choosing the right probiotic could be even more personal than you think.

Here’s what the science says about how gut health differs between men and women, which probiotic strains to look out for, and our top Dr. Ohhira recommendations for both.

How Gut Health Differs for Men and Women

Your gut microbiome - the trillions of microbes living in your digestive tract - influences everything from digestion to mood. While both men and women rely on a healthy microbiome, differences in anatomy and hormones can affect how our guts work.

Men often have slightly shorter colons and produce more stomach acid, which may make them more prone to heartburn, ulcers, or certain colon issues. Women, on the other hand, tend to digest food more slowly, and hormonal changes during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause can trigger bloating, discomfort, or shifts in bowel habits. Female hormones may also increase inflammation, which could contribute to a higher risk of gastritis.

These biological differences mean men and women can benefit from probiotics tailored to their specific needs - so in some cases, it does make sense to reach for different ends of the probiotic aisle.

What to Look for in a Probiotic: Men vs. Women

Once you understand how gut health can differ between men and women, it’s easier to know what to look for when choosing a probiotic. While many formulas can be taken by anyone, selecting one with the right combination of strains and features for your needs can make a real difference.

For Men:

Men may benefit from probiotics that focus on:

• Digestive and metabolic support – to help break down and absorb nutrients efficiently.
• Immune health – with diverse bacterial strains to keep the gut and immune system strong.
• Inflammation management – some strains may help reduce gut inflammation and support healthy cholesterol levels.
• Energy and recovery – for active lifestyles, look for probiotics that work alongside a nutrient-rich diet to maintain stamina and overall vitality.

For Women:

Women may want probiotics that support:

• Gut and vaginal health – certain Lactobacillus strains can help maintain a healthy pH and reduce the risk of yeast overgrowth.
• Digestive comfort – probiotics that can ease bloating, constipation, or irregular bowel movements.
• Hormonal transitions – probiotics that help maintain microbiome balance during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause.
• Overall wellness – blends that combine digestive benefits with extra nutritional support for skin, bone, and joint health.

Takeaway

Men and women don’t necessarily need completely different probiotics, but tailoring your choice to your individual needs can help you get better results.

Whether you’re choosing for him, her, or both, Dr. Ohhira’s award-winning probiotics offer clean, allergen-free formulas backed by science - making them a trusted choice for anyone at any age. Shop the collection now.