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Head-to-head evidence comparison — which supplement is right for you?
Probiotics wins 2 of 3 categories. Both are solid choices — the best pick depends on your specific goals.
Verdict
Likely helps
14 of 14 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
Verdict
Likely helps
30 of 39 studies with measurable effects showed benefit.
Top outcomes
300-600mg daily (standardized extract)
Morning for daytime stress, Evening for sleep support
KSM-66 or Sensoril standardized extract
10-20 billion CFU
With or without food (strain-dependent), Same time daily for consistency
Capsules with multiple strains
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
2-4 weeks
First week
2-4 weeks
4-8 weeks
4-8 weeks
First 1-2 weeks
Effects of Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera) on stress and anxiety: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Explore (NY) (2024) · Meta analysis · n=873
Significant effect on the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) (MD = -4.72, 95 % CI = [-8.45 to -0.99]).
Effects of Withania somnifera Extract in Chronically Stressed Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Nutrients (2024) · Rct · n=131
Our findings demonstrate the stress-reduction capabilities of this well-characterized aqueous extract of WS (root and leaf) at the low dose of 125 mg/day, in a dose-dependent manner, via the modulation of the HPA axis.
Plant-derived nootropics and human cognition: A systematic review
Critical reviews in food science and nutrition (2023) · Systematic review
Bacopa monnieri improves language, learning and memory.
Preventive Effect of Probiotics on Oral Mucositis Induced by Cancer Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
International journal of molecular sciences (2022) · Meta analysis · n=708
Three trials using Lactobacilli-based probiotics reported that the incidence of oral mucositis in the probiotic group was significantly low (risk ratio [RR] = 0.84, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.77−0.93, p = 0.0004).
Probiotics for treating acute infectious diarrhoea
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2020) · Meta analysis · n=12127
Effect size was similar in the sensitivity analysis and marked heterogeneity persisted.
Probiotics for the prevention of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea in adults and children
The Cochrane database of systematic reviews (2017) · Meta analysis · n=9955
A complete case analysis (i.e. participants who completed the study) among trials investigating CDAD (31 trials, 8672 participants) suggests that probiotics reduce the risk of CDAD by 60%.
Based on meta-analysis showing significant HAM-A score reduction (p=0.0007) and RCT evidence at 125mg dose. High heterogeneity (I2=98%) in pooled analysis suggests variable response. Extract standardization affects bioavailability.
Based on meta-analyses showing benefits for IBS and digestive symptoms. Effect sizes varied considerably between studies with low to very low certainty of evidence. Initial GI symptoms common when starting but typically resolve within 1-2 weeks.
AI-estimated from published studies. Interpret as directional guidance.
Probiotics has a higher evidence score (9/10 vs 7.5/10) and wins in 2 of 3 categories.
For reduce anxiety & stress, Ashwagandha has a higher relevance score (95 vs 52).
No known interactions between Ashwagandha and Probiotics have been documented in our database. However, always consult a healthcare provider before combining supplements.