Probiotic Supplement Use Rose Sharply Since 2009

A national study found that probiotic intake increased significantly among both youth and adults by 2023.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Nutrition

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a glass jar filled with small spheres on a plain surface, representing the trend in probiotic supplement use. — A national study shows probiotic supplement use among Americans has grown significantly since 2009, with usage rising sharply across all age groups by 2023. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe taking health supplements is more important than changing your daily dietary habits?

Probiotic supplement use among Americans rose from 2009 to 2023, with usage rates climbing by 786 percent for individuals under 20 and 287 percent for adults. Researchers analyzed survey data from 54,776 participants to evaluate these changing dietary patterns.

Why it matters

The study highlights a significant shift in dietary supplement habits across the United States population over the last decade and a half. Understanding these trends provides insight into how Americans are attempting to manage their digestive health.

Probiotic users consumed 1.35 g/1,000 kcal more fiber than non-users, yet all groups fell below the recommended daily intake of 14 g/1,000 kcal. The analysis covered 54,776 survey participants over seven cycles.

The players

Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology

This is a peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes research regarding the gastrointestinal tract, liver, and pancreas.

The details

While the use of probiotic supplements saw substantial growth, the consumption of microbiome-supportive foods remained largely unchanged throughout the study period. Data indicated that 26.29 percent of participants consumed high-microbial content foods, while 31.17 percent consumed only low-microbial options.

The baseline survey period for probiotic usage occurred between 2009 and 2010.
The final survey period for data collection concluded in 2023.
The study was published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology on September 7, 2026.

The Big Picture

This research follows the established monitoring protocols of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to evaluate public dietary behavior. By utilizing these long-term data cycles, the study provides a clear record of how supplement trends have evolved compared to previous decades.

While probiotic usage has increased, readers should note that fiber intake remains consistently below the recommended 14 g/1,000 kcal threshold for all demographics. Maintaining a balanced diet through diverse, high-microbial foods remains a key component of nutritional health.

The takeaway

Although more Americans are incorporating probiotic supplements into their routines, these supplements are not currently compensating for a general deficit in daily fiber consumption. Achieving optimal digestive health likely requires prioritizing high-fiber foods alongside any chosen supplementation.