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HealthDietary Supplements

The 6 Best Prebiotics of 2026: Tester Approved

Christina Snyder
By
Christina Snyder
Christina Snyder
Health Staff Writer
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Christina Snyder
By
Christina Snyder
Christina Snyder
Health Staff Writer
Down Arrow Button Icon
February 4, 2026, 5:07 PM ET

Long days, a packed calendar, and eating takeout food on repeat can make it tough to prioritize gut health, even though it’s vital for your energy, focus, and resilience. Prebiotics give your gut’s beneficial bacteria the nourishment they need to thrive, all in a simple, daily add‑on to your routine, with no major diet overhaul or complex ingredient list required.

We’ve tested and evaluated the best prebiotic supplements of 2026 to bring you our top picks. If you’re interested in capsules, synbiotic combos, or powders, we have notes on each option to help you make the best choice for your ideal everyday prebiotic.

Why Trust Fortune

Our team of expert testers has tried hundreds of the most popular supplements on the market today, using our comprehensive supplement testing methodology to find the best products for all folks.

Best Prebiotics of 2026

  • Best Prebiotic Overall: Ritual Synbiotic+
  • Best Prebiotic Powder: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens
  • Best Prebiotic for Women: AG1 Next Gen
  • Best Prebiotic for Men: Nutricost Prebiotic
  • Best Prebiotic and Probiotic Combo: Seed Daily Synbiotic
  • Best Prebiotic for Gut Health: Onnit Total Gut Health

Best Prebiotic Comparison Table

PrebioticFormServings per ContainerDosage
Ritual Synbiotic+Vegan capsule301 capsule
Transparent Labs Prebiotic GreensGreens powder301 scoop
AG1 Next GenGreens powder301 scoop
Nutricost PrebioticPowder571 scoop
Seed Daily SynbioticCapsule302 capsules
Onnit Total Gut HealthCapsule304 capsules
Ritual Synbiotic+
FormVegan capsule
Servings per Container30
Dosage1 capsule
Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens
FormGreens powder
Servings per Container30
Dosage1 scoop
AG1 Next Gen
FormGreens powder
Servings per Container30
Dosage1 scoop
Nutricost Prebiotic
FormPowder
Servings per Container57
Dosage1 scoop
Seed Daily Synbiotic
FormCapsule
Servings per Container30
Dosage2 capsules
Onnit Total Gut Health
FormCapsule
Servings per Container30
Dosage4 capsules

Best Prebiotic Overall: Ritual Synbiotic+

Ritual Synbiotic+

Streamlined 3‑in‑1 prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic in one capsule
Fortune score4.5/5
Ritual Synbiotic+
Check Price

at Ritual

  • Our thoughts: A polished, science‑forward daily gut supplement with simple dosing
  • Who it’s for: Folks who want comprehensive microbiome support in a single, once‑daily pill
  • What makes it different: It combines clinically researched probiotic strains with a targeted prebiotic (PreforPro) and a postbiotic (tributyrin) in an enteric‑coated capsule

Pros

  • Once‑daily capsule, no refrigeration required
  • Includes prebiotic, probiotic, and postbiotic for multi‑layer gut support
  • Clean, intuitive packaging and clearly labeled supplement facts

Cons

  • High price per serving
  • Strong mint scent and aftertaste may not be ideal for everyone
  • Light, low‑contrast label text can be harder to read

Our Thoughts on Ritual Synbiotic+

Ritual Synbiotic+ is our pick for the best overall prebiotic because it consolidates prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics into one thoughtfully engineered capsule, simplifying an otherwise complex routine. The formula uses two well‑tolerated probiotic species, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium animalis, totaling 11 billion CFU, paired with the PreforPro prebiotic to selectively support beneficial bacteria and a tributyrin postbiotic to help maintain a healthy gut lining. This 3‑in‑1 approach aims not just at digestion but at broader microbiome balance, which can appeal to people who want more than a basic fiber‑only prebiotic.

Ritual Snybiotic+ as best probiotic

Kate tested Ritual Synbiotic+ and rated it a 5 out of 5 for first impressions. “I love Ritual’s packaging. It’s a matte, gray bottle with very clean and classy font,” she said. She found the supplement facts and instructions clearly labeled and easy to understand, and also appreciated that the bottle is easy to open and the pills are easy to get out, even for someone with dexterity concerns. However, she did point out that the font is a bit light, which could be hard for some people to read, reflected in a slightly lower 3.5 out of 5 rating for how easy the instructions are to follow. Overall, her impressions suggest a premium, user‑friendly design that could be improved with increased color contrast on the label.

Kate rated the capsule form a 4 out of 5 for ease of swallowing and described it as “a typical double encapsulated pill that’s enterically coated,” designed to help the second capsule break down further along the GI tract. “The inner capsule almost looks like gold flakes,” she noted, which underscores the product’s polished, science‑y aesthetic but doesn’t necessarily change function.

Taste‑wise, she rated Synbiotic+ a 3.75 out of 5, explaining that “it tastes minty” with an “overwhelming mint smell when you open the bottle” and a noticeable mint aftertaste—pleasant for mint fans, but potentially too strong for others.

For side effects, she gave it a 4 out of 5, largely due to the lingering mint aftertaste, which some folks may not love. Kate did not have any digestive discomfort but noted that some reviewers reported temporary GI side effects that tended to fade with consistent use. 

Best Prebiotic Powder: Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

Fruity prebiotic greens powder with spirulina, chlorella, and added prebiotic fiber
Fortune score4.5/5
Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens
Check Price

at Transparent Labs

  • Our thoughts: A flavorful daily greens‑plus‑prebiotic blend that’s easy to mix into your routine
  • Who it’s for: Folks who want prebiotic support alongside greens ingredients in a drinkable powder
  • What makes it different: Combines classic greens with prebiotic fiber in several tropical flavors

Pros

  • Clear, straightforward instructions and included scoop
  • Smooth, refreshing tropical flavor options that mask “greens” taste
  • Mixes well in a shaker with only slight graininess

Cons

  • Slight grainy texture
  • Scoop can be hard to find at the bottom of the tub
  • More expensive than other options on our list

Our Thoughts on Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens is our pick for the best prebiotic powder because it pairs gut‑supporting fibers with spirulina and chlorella in a flavored greens base. The powder is designed to be mixed once daily with water or your beverage of choice, making it easy to slot into a morning or post‑workout routine. Its ingredient callouts and minimalist packaging clearly position it as a functional, “better for you” product rather than a sugary drink mix. With 30 servings per tub and a mid‑range price, it strikes a balance between quality and value for folks who prefer sipping their prebiotics instead of swallowing capsules.

Our tester Kayla rated her first impressions of Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens a 5 out of 5, noting that “the container sports a clean minimalist aesthetic” and that the packaging prominently highlights key ingredients, like spirulina, chlorella, and prebiotic fiber. She described the tub as sturdy, with a lid that’s secure enough for everyday use, whether on a kitchen counter or thrown into a gym bag.

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens as best greens powder

For instructions, she also gave a 5 out of 5, calling them “straightforward and easy to follow” and appreciating that the serving recommendation—“mix 1 scoop with 8–12 ounces of water or your favorite beverage”—is printed clearly without confusing jargon. The included scoop made measuring easy, though she did mention she had to dig all the way to the bottom to get the scoop out, which is a minor usability drawback. 

On mixability and texture, Kayla again rated the product a 5 out of 5. After shaking one scoop in a shaker cup for 60 seconds, she was pleased with the consistency. “A minute is a sufficient amount of time for the product to be fully soluble,” she said. She noticed “a little bit of a grainy texture” visually but clarified that it wasn’t enough to say the product wasn’t mixing well. In practice, the shake drank smoothly.

Taste was one of the biggest wins: Kayla scored it a 5 out of 5. “Overall this was my favorite tasting greens powder with its fruity peach mango flavor,” she said. “It’s smooth, light, and refreshing.” The fruity flavor was “slightly sweet and did a good job of masking the chlorella and spirulina.” Kayla also mentioned that she’s not typically a fan of greens powders, but this drink helped to change her mind. 

Best Prebiotic for Women: AG1 Next Gen 

AG1 Next Gen

All‑in‑one daily greens, prebiotic, probiotic, and multi-nutrient powder
Fortune score4.5/5
Athletic Greens AG1
Check Price

at Athletic Greens

  • Our thoughts: A convenient way to boost prebiotic intake while helping close common nutrient gaps
  • Who it’s for: Women who want gut support plus broad micronutrient coverage in one daily drink (though anyone can use it)
  • What makes it different: Clinically studied “Next Gen” formula with upgraded probiotics, prebiotic fibers, and added vitamins and minerals to address modern diet shortfalls

Pros

  • Comprehensive blend of greens, prebiotic fibers, probiotics, and key vitamins/minerals
  • Excellent mixability with smooth, juice‑like texture
  • Mild, improved flavor that’s easy to drink daily

Cons

  • High cost
  • Contains stevia and a long ingredient list, which won’t suit everyone
  • Includes proprietary blends

Our Thoughts on AG1 Next Gen 

AG1 Next Gen is our pick for the best prebiotic for women because it layers meaningful prebiotic support into a broad, micronutrient‑dense daily drink that targets many of the gaps women in the U.S. commonly face. The upgraded formula adds and increases key vitamins such as folate, vitamin C, and B12, alongside minerals like magnesium, which are frequently under‑consumed by women and play roles in energy, immunity, bone health, and nervous‑system function. 

This powder also includes inulin and other prebiotic fibers, plus a 10‑billion‑CFU probiotic blend, supporting gut health and beneficial bacteria, while delivering a multivitamin‑style nutrient base in one scoop. Importantly, AG1 Next Gen is not a gender‑targeted supplement (anyone can use it) but its combination of prebiotics, probiotics, and hard‑to‑get vitamins and minerals align especially well with the nutritional pain points many women experience.Kayla tested AG1 Next Gen and rated her first impressions of the product a 5 out of 5. “The branding is well thought out, which immediately gives the sense that it’s a high‑quality product,” she said. She called the ingredient profile “impressive, as it focuses on a broad range of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and adaptogens in one formula,” which matches AG1’s all‑in‑one positioning.

AG1 as best greens powder

For directions, she also gave a 5 out of 5, noting that the instructions—mix one scoop with 8 to 10 ounces of cold water—are clearly printed, easy to spot on the packaging, and use a font size that’s large enough to read without straining. Overall, her initial experience reinforces AG1 Next Gen as a polished, easy‑to‑follow daily ritual.

On mixability, Kayla rated AG1 a 5 out of 5, sharing that after shaking one scoop with about 10 ounces of cold water for 60 seconds, “This product by far has the best solubility out of all the greens powders I have tried.” She reported the powder was “Completely dissolved, with zero clumps and there wasn’t an excessive amount of foam,” which makes a big difference if you’re drinking it every morning.

For taste, she again rated it 5 out of 5, describing it as “mild and earthy, with subtle hints of sweetness of vanilla that help soften the greens flavor.” While she could taste the stevia slightly, she felt it wasn’t overwhelming and noted that there’s no strong bitterness and that the mouthfeel is “smooth and light… closer to a light juice than a thick smoothie,” making it easy to drink quickly.

Want to be extra sure you’re taking care of your gut health? Check out our best probiotics for women.

Best Prebiotic for Men: Nutricost Prebiotic

Nutricost Prebiotic

Budget‑friendly prebiotic fiber powder with a straightforward, single‑focus formula
Fortune score4/5
Nutricost Prebiotic
Check Price

at Amazon

  • Our thoughts: A simple, no‑frills way to meaningfully boost daily fiber and support gut health
  • Who it’s for: Men who want an affordable, flexible prebiotic fiber they can add to water or smoothies (and anyone who prefers an unflavored option)
  • What makes it different: A serving contains seven grams of prebiotic fiber per serving at a very low cost per serving, with minimal extras

Pros

  • High fiber dose (seven grams) per serving to help close the fiber gap
  • Very low price per serving (less than 50 cents)
  • Unflavored powder that’s easy to add to water or other drinks

Cons

  • Slight settling at the bottom of the shaker if not mixed again
  • Mild taste, even though it’s technically unflavored
  • Needs a shaker or vigorous stirring for best texture

Our Thoughts on Nutricost Prebiotic

Nutricost’s Prebiotic Fiber is our pick for the best prebiotic for men because it delivers a substantial seven-gram serving of dietary fiber in a simple, low‑cost powder that fits easily into most routines and can be stacked with other supplements, like a daily multivitamin. While this isn’t a gender-specific formula, seven grams of fiber can make a meaningful dent in the fiber gap, especially for men, who are advised to aim for about 38 grams of fiber per day up to age 50 and often fall short.

The formula focuses on prebiotic fiber without layering in extra stimulants, sweeteners, or botanicals, which keeps it versatile: you can mix it with water, smoothies, or other drinks as you like. While it is not a gender‑specific prebiotic and anyone can take it, its high fiber dose, gut‑support potential, and strong cost‑per‑serving profile make it particularly appealing for men looking for an efficient way to support regularity and overall gut health.

Nutricost prebiotic as best prebiotic

Pete tested Nutricost Prebiotic Fiber and rated his first impressions a 5 out of 5, describing it as coming in a white plastic container with a blue screw top lid that opens and closes easily. He liked that there’s a scoop with a long handle inside, which “made scooping out the supplement much easier considering the narrow opening.”

The container itself is roughly 6 inches tall and 3.5 inches wide, which Pete found easy to store without taking up too much space. For instructions, he gave another 5 out of 5; the label clearly states to mix one scoop daily with 6 to 10 ounces of water or as directed by a healthcare professional, which keeps dosing straightforward.

On mixability, Pete rated the product a 3 out of 5. After an initial 60‑second shake, the powder dissolved very well, though he noticed “some very slight settling that was visible at the bottom of the shaker bottle.” A second 60‑second shake still left “a very small amount of undissolved product at the bottom,” but he emphasized that this didn’t affect the mouthfeel at all and that he didn’t notice any grit and the consistency was smooth while drinking.

For taste, he also gave a 3 out of 5, explaining that the product is unflavored and “really was essentially unflavored when mixed in water, though you can definitely tell there’s something mixed in the water… but there is no real noticeable taste or flavor.”

Nutricost’s value was a standout: at the time of writing, it’s only $24.97 for 57 servings (less than 50 cents per serving) and Pete rated the price per serving a 5 out of 5. On side effects, he again gave a 5 out of 5, noting, “I felt totally fine after using this fiber supplement. I didn’t experience any negative side effects or digestive issues.”

Check out our best probiotics for men to make extra sure you’re prioritizing your gut health!

Best Prebiotic and Probiotic Combo: Seed Daily Synbiotic

Seed Daily Synbiotic

Science‑driven prebiotic–probiotic combo with targeted, multi‑strain formula
Fortune score4/5
Seed Daily Synbiotic
Check Price

at Seed

  • Our thoughts: A thoughtfully engineered daily synbiotic for people who want more than a basic probiotic
  • Who it’s for: Folks looking for broad microbiome, gut barrier, and whole‑body support in capsule form
  • What makes it different: It’s a 24‑strain blend measured in AFU plus prebiotic components, all delivered in a 2‑in‑1 capsule designed to survive stomach acid

Pros

  • 24 distinct probiotic strains with 53.6 billion AFU per serving
  • Dual‑layer capsule engineered to improve survival through stomach acid
  • Backed by multiple double‑blind, placebo‑controlled clinical trials on the finished product

Cons

  • Requires two capsules per day, which some may find less convenient than a single pill
  • More expensive than other options on our list
  • Slight earthy taste to the capsule

Our Thoughts on Seed Daily Synbiotic

Seed’s Daily Synbiotic is our pick for the best prebiotic and probiotic combo because it pairs a sophisticated, multi‑strain probiotic blend with prebiotic components in a capsule system built to reach your gut. The formula delivers 24 different strains at a total of 53.6 billion AFU per serving.

Seed also emphasizes delivery: its dual‑layer capsule is designed to protect the bacteria through the stomach and release them where they’re needed in the intestines, a key step for any synbiotic. Combined with published clinical trials on the finished product and straightforward, once‑daily dosing, Seed’s Daily Synbiotic stands out as a well‑rounded option for folks who want both prebiotic and probiotic support in one targeted supplement.

Pete tested Seed’s Daily Synbiotic and rated his first impressions of the product a 5 out of 5, highlighting the dark green glass jar with a screw‑top lid that opens and closes easily. He appreciated that the brand intentionally provides a high‑quality, reusable jar and monthly refill packs, plus “a slim, travel‑friendly glass vial that looks almost like a test tube,” which makes it easy to bring doses on the go. 

Seed synbiotic as best prebiotic

For instructions, Pete gave another 5 out of 5; the label clearly states to take two capsules at once, daily, best on an empty stomach, and that no refrigeration is necessary. That combination of clear directions and thoughtful packaging contributed to a polished, premium feel during testing.

On the pill form and serving size, Pete rated the Daily Synbiotic a 3 out of 5. He described it as coming in a dark green capsule where you can’t see what color the powder is inside. “It’s well‑designed for a probiotic to help the actual bacteria strains reach your gut,” with an outer chlorophyllin layer and an inner hypromellose layer to help it stay intact through stomach acid.

The recommended serving size is two capsules per day, which may be manageable for most people but is still more than some once‑daily options. For taste, he also gave a 3 out of 5, saying, “the capsules aren’t totally tasteless, there is a slight earthy taste to them but you can swallow them quickly and won’t really taste much,” so flavor is present but not a major issue.

Best Prebiotic for Gut Health: Onnit Total Gut Health

Onnit Total Gut Health

Multi‑capsule gut pack combining digestive enzymes, probiotics, and targeted gut‑support ingredients
Fortune score3.75/5
Onnit Total Gut Health
Check Price

at Onnit

  • Our thoughts: A robust, all‑in‑one gut health system tailored around mealtime
  • Who it’s for: People who want comprehensive gut support in a structured, once‑per‑meal packet
  • What makes it different: Comes as pre‑portioned daily pouches with a multi‑pill stack designed to support digestion and the microbiome from several angles

Pros

  • Convenient pre‑divided daily pouches for on‑the‑go use
  • Detailed packaging that explains the product and its benefits
  • Focused on gut health with a multi‑ingredient digestive stack

Cons

  • Requires taking seven capsules per serving, which can be a lot at once
  • Instructions printed only on the outer box, not individual packets
  • Pricier than other options on our list

Our Thoughts on Onnit Total Gut Health 

Onnit Total Gut Health is our pick for the best prebiotic for gut health because it is purpose‑built as a comprehensive digestive support system, rather than a simple single‑ingredient prebiotic. Each serving delivers a curated stack of capsules meant to be taken with your largest meal, combining gut‑focused ingredients such as probiotics, digestive enzymes, and prebiotic‑type support to address digestion and microbiome health from multiple angles.

The pre‑portioned packet format also encourages consistent, meal‑anchored use. While the multi‑capsule approach will not appeal to everyone, the depth and specificity of the gut‑centric formula make it a strong fit for readers who want more than a basic fiber powder.

Kayla tested Onnit Total Gut Health and rated her first impressions of the product a 5 out of 5, saying she liked how it comes in easy to take pouches. “The box includes 15 servings of pre‑divided small pouches with seven capsules ready to go,” she said, making it simple to grab a packet and go.

While she found that the packaging “has a lot of information on it so it can be a little overwhelming,” she ultimately concluded that it does a good job of explaining the product and its benefits. For instructions, she again gave a 5 out of 5, summarizing that they’re printed on the large box—take with the largest meal of the day, consult your doctor if pregnant, nursing, or managing a medical condition, and store in a cool, dry place.

When it came to the pill experience, Kayla found the serving size challenging and rated ease of swallowing just 1 out of 5. She emphasized that seven capsules is a lot of pills to take all at once, so she broke them up into smaller groups—“I had to break it up in groups of two, and then take the last pill on its own”—while still following the advice to take them with a large meal.

In terms of taste, she rated the product a 3 out of 5. The pills themselves “Did not have a taste to them, but they did have a slight smell, like gelatin,” and she noted there was no noticeable aftertaste from the supplements, which may be a relief for people worried about strong flavors.

What is a Prebiotic?

A prebiotic is a type of non‑digestible carbohydrate—usually a fiber—that your body can’t break down but your gut bacteria can. Once it reaches the large intestine, it acts as fuel for beneficial microbes, helping them grow and produce compounds like short‑chain fatty acids that support gut, immune, and overall health.

People take prebiotics to support regular digestion, promote a more balanced gut environment, and complement a diet that may be low in naturally prebiotic‑rich foods like certain fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Prebiotics show up both in whole foods (like onions, garlic, bananas, and oats) and in supplements, where doses and fiber types can be more concentrated and consistent.

Ag1 as best greens powder

How We Tested and Selected the Best Prebiotics

We use a structured, expert‑informed process to evaluate prebiotic supplements. Here are some of the aspects we consider when selecting our top picks.

Formula

For each product, we collaborate with a registered dietitian to review the label, ingredient list, and dosing. We prioritize formulas that use evidence‑backed prebiotic fibers at doses that align with research or fall within reasonable daily value ranges for fiber, rather than small amounts that are unlikely to do much. 

We also screen for unnecessary additives and try to avoid products that rely heavily on artificial sweeteners, colors, or fillers when possible, especially if they’re likely to cause GI discomfort or don’t match the product’s health‑forward positioning.

Taste and Texture

Because a prebiotic only helps if you actually take it, flavor and mouthfeel are a big part of our testing process. Whenever we can, we lean on blind taste tests so testers aren’t influenced by branding or price and can give more honest feedback on flavor, aftertaste, and overall drinkability.

We also rate perceived sweetness on a 1‑to‑5 scale (with 5 being very sweet) to capture whether a product skews earthy, balanced, or dessert‑like, which helps different readers find a match for their preferences.

Mixability 

We prepare each powder exactly according to the brand’s own directions—including liquid type, volume, and shaking or stirring time—to keep things fair across products.

Then we pay close attention to how well the powder dissolves, noting any clumps, foam, or sediment that settles at the bottom. Products that mix into a smooth, even drink without noticeable grittiness score higher, since that makes it easier to sip consistently.

Third-Party Testing

Our team places a strong emphasis on products that undergo third‑party testing. This typically means an independent lab has verified that what’s on the label matches what’s in the container and has checked for certain contaminants.

That extra oversight matters because dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA in the same way as drugs or many conventional foods, so quality can vary widely from brand to brand. When possible, we favor options that clearly disclose reputable third‑party certifications.

Value

For value, we weigh all of these factors—formula quality, dose, flavor, mixability, and testing—against the cost per serving rather than just looking for the cheapest option. A product that’s a bit more expensive but offers a stronger formula, better taste, and robust quality testing may earn a higher spot than a budget pick that cuts corners.

Prebiotic Servings per containerCost
Ritual Synbiotic+30$54
Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens30$39.99
AG1 Next Gen30$99
Nutricost Prebiotic57$24.97
Seed Daily Synbiotic30$49.99
Onnit Total Gut Health30$44.99
Ritual Synbiotic+
Servings per container30
Cost$54
Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens
Servings per container30
Cost$39.99
AG1 Next Gen
Servings per container30
Cost$99
Nutricost Prebiotic
Servings per container57
Cost$24.97
Seed Daily Synbiotic
Servings per container30
Cost$49.99
Onnit Total Gut Health
Servings per container30
Cost$44.99

How to Find the Best Prebiotic for You

A prebiotic is a type of non‑digestible fiber that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping them grow and stay active. Finding the best prebiotic comes down to matching the product to your body, lifestyle, and budget while making sure it is safe and evidence‑based.

Your Body’s Needs

Different people have different goals related to taking a prebiotic, like improving digestion, supporting immune health, managing blood sugar, or enhancing recovery. Clarifying your main goal (for example, less bloating versus better regularity) can help you choose a dose and type of prebiotic that is more likely to deliver the result you want.

Ritual Synbiotic+ as best probiotic

If you have IBS, IBD, or are prone to gas, you may need to start with a very low dose and increase slowly to reduce discomfort. People with specific medical conditions or on medications should talk with a healthcare professional before starting a supplement.

Formula

Prebiotic supplements commonly use ingredients like inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), or resistant starch. Some formulas also add probiotics or other ingredients (electrolytes, flavorings, sweeteners), which may or may not be helpful for you.

Check the label’s percent daily value (if listed) for fiber so you know how much it adds to your total intake and adjust elsewhere in your diet if needed.

Form

Prebiotics come as powders, capsules, chewables, and functional foods or drink mixes. Powders and drink mixes are easy to stir into water, smoothies, or coffee and let you adjust the dose, while capsules may be more convenient for travel but limit how easily you can lower the dose for comfort.

If you already drink a daily shake or hydration mix, a powder that blends well may fit seamlessly into your routine. If you dislike flavored drinks, a tasteless or lightly flavored powder or a capsule may be easier to stick with.

Flavors

A prebiotic works best when taken regularly, so pick a flavor you can see yourself sipping most days of the week. Avoid overly sweet options if you are sensitive to artificial or concentrated sweeteners, since these may bother some people’s digestion.

Cost

Supplements can get expensive, especially when you use them daily. Products with “cleaner” formulas (fewer fillers, higher‑quality fibers, added probiotic strains) often cost more, but that may be worth it if you tolerate them better and plan to use them long term.

You can also combine food‑based prebiotics (like high‑fiber fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) with a smaller supplemental dose to lower your monthly spend.

Third-Party Testing

Look for supplements that are third‑party tested (for example, NSF, USP, Informed Choice) so you know they contain what the label claims and are screened for common contaminants. Independent testing is especially important for athletes, because it lowers the risk of inadvertent exposure to banned substances.

Transparent Labs Prebiotic Greens as best greens powder

Quality‑assured products are also more likely to deliver consistent doses of the specific prebiotic fibers used in research, which supports more predictable effects on your gut microbiome.

Benefits of Prebiotics

Prebiotics are best known for supporting a healthy gut microbiome, but their effects reach beyond digestion. Here are some benefits:

  • Prebiotics serve as food for beneficial gut bacteria, helping them grow and maintain a more balanced microbiome.
  • As bacteria ferment these fibers, they produce short‑chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that fuel colon cells, support gut barrier integrity, and influence inflammation and metabolism.
  • Better gut balance can translate into easier bowel movements and may help with issues such as constipation and some IBS symptoms.
  • By affecting immune signaling and inflammation, prebiotics may help support immune defenses and broader metabolic and even mental health outcomes. 

Prebiotic vs. Probiotic 

Prebiotics are non‑digestible fibers that feed the microbes already living in your gut. Probiotics are live microorganisms (usually strains of bacteria or yeast) that you ingest to add beneficial microbes to your system.

They work best together: prebiotics provide the fuel that helps probiotic bacteria and microbes survive, grow, and function well. Many people benefit from getting both through food (fiber‑rich plants plus fermented foods), and some may choose combined “synbiotic” supplements that deliver both in one product.

If you take both as supplements, they do not have to be taken at the exact same moment, but having both regularly in your daily routine helps create a more stable, well‑fed gut microbiome. We recommend that you talk with your doctor or other healthcare professional about these types of supplements before starting a new routine. 

What to Avoid in Prebiotics

Some ingredients or practices can make a prebiotic less ideal for everyday use. Here’s what to avoid when shopping for a prebiotic:

  • Very high starting doses of inulin or FOS, which can cause gas, cramping, and loose stools in some people. It’s best to start with a lower dose and work your way up slowly. 
  • Products that hide their exact fiber amounts behind “proprietary blends,” which can make it difficult to know how much you are taking.
  • Supplements with unnecessary added sugars or sugar alcohols that may worsen bloating or diarrhea for people with sensitive stomachs.

Frequently asked questions

What are some signs you need prebiotics?

Possible signs you might benefit from more prebiotic fiber include low overall fiber intake, frequent constipation, or feeling like your diet is low in plant foods that feed gut bacteria.

Which fruits are high in prebiotics?

Fruits that are particularly rich in prebiotic fibers include bananas (especially when slightly underripe), apples, and berries, along with other plant foods like onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, and whole grains. Building these into your daily meals will give you a steady base of natural prebiotics even before adding a supplement.

Is Greek yogurt a good prebiotic?

Greek yogurt is a probiotic food, not a prebiotic. It delivers beneficial bacteria rather than the fibers that feed them. To turn it into more of a “prebiotic plus probiotic” snack, you can pair it with high‑fiber toppings such as bananas, oats, or berries to supply prebiotic fibers the bacteria can use.

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About the Author
Christina Snyder
By Christina SnyderHealth Staff Writer

Christina is a health staff writer at Fortune with more than a decade of experience crafting engaging content for digital platforms.

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Latest in Health

Finance
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October 20, 2025
Finance
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
Finance
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
Finance
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
Finance
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
Finance
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October 20, 2025

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Finance
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October 20, 2025
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October 20, 2025
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
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By Fortune Editors
October 20, 2025
Finance
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October 20, 2025
Finance
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October 20, 2025
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Success
In 2026, many employers are ditching merit-based pay bumps in favor of ‘peanut butter raises’
By Emma BurleighFebruary 2, 2026
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