Several factors affect your gut microbiome, but a high-quality probiotic can be a golden ticket to improved gut health. Our team of experts — including board-certified physician and active clinical researcher Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD — has tried some of the best probiotic supplements on the market, using our supplement testing methodology to rate and examine each profile in categories like formulation, taste, solubility, and value. One popular probiotic that’s popped up as of late is Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic, a multilayered silhouette offering 24 strains of gut-boosting bacteria. Naturally, we had to put its makeup to the test.
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic combines probiotics (AKA live good bacteria) and prebiotics (the non-digestible fiber that feeds those bacteria) in a two-layer capsule. Its goal is to support your health from the inside out. In our opinion, Seed DS-01 can be a worthwhile option for those targeting regular bowel movements, improved immune function, and general wellness. That said, the price may be off-putting to some budgets, and pill-averse individuals may prefer a powdered supplement. Want more details? Let’s get into our findings in this Seed Probiotic review.
Seed Daily Synbiotic’s probiotic and prebiotic formula can help provide benefits for gut immune function and whole-body health. This research-backed daily supplement can also support digestive health and ease bloating.
Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
Main Takeaways
- Seed Probiotics contains both prebiotics and probiotics.
- DS-01 is vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and preservative-free.
- This product is more expensive than other options, but our expert tester found value in its strain-specific benefits.
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic Specs
| Price Per Serving | $1.67 |
| Serving Size | 2 capsules |
| CFUs Per Serving | 53.6 billion AFUs |
| Included Strains | 24 probiotic strains |
| Storage Requirements | No refrigeration required |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes |
Researchers are finding that your gastrointestinal tract is more than just where food goes after you eat. It’s home to the gut microbiome — an ecosystem of tiny bacteria that influence nearly every organ in your body. Taking care of the good gut bacteria offers health benefits beyond better digestion. A healthy gut can support your immune system, skin, heart, weight management, and more. (1)
So, the gut microbiome is one of the body’s MVPs. But how do we keep it rocking and rolling? One solution is to consume probiotics for gut health, such as this offering from Seed. Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic comprises 24 strains of clinically-studied probiotics such as Bifidobacteria, Lactiplantibacilli, Limosilactobacilli, and Ligilactobacilli, to name a few. Each dose contains 53.6 billion active fluorescent units (AFUs) that support gut immune function, gut barrier integrity, cardiovascular health, dermatological health, and micronutrient synthesis.
DS-01 also uses ViaCap technology — a two-layer capsule that helps protect the probiotics until they reach your small intestine and colon. You don’t want your probiotics eaten up by stomach acid before they can do their job. The capsule is also gelatin-free, making it accommodating for athletes following a vegan diet.
The ordering process is simple, according to our tester, a Certified Transformational Nutrition Coach and Certified Holistic Health Coach. You decide whether you want your monthly subscription to arrive every one, three, or six months. You can get a discount on your first month, too, but Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic is a little more expensive than other probiotics on the market at roughly $1.67 per serving.
The strain-specific benefits and unique packaging may make the extra cost worth it, though. “I really appreciated the glass jar with this product, as well as the enjoyable green capsule that set it apart from most other probiotics and capsules,” notes our tester. You even get a complimentary glass travel vial that holds up to one week’s worth of doses!
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
“Some common benefits associated with probiotic supplementation include digestive support, better nutrient absorption, improved immune functions, and potential relief from digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS),” states Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD. As with any supplement, though — from the best multivitamins to protein powders, BCAAs, and (of course) probiotics — that doesn’t mean they’re the right fit for everyone. Below, we’ve outlined some groups that could benefit from Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic, as well as some that may fare better with a different profile.
Recommended for:
- Individuals wanting a comprehensive gut health supplement
- Athletes following a vegan diet
- Those on a low-FODMAP diet
Not Recommended for:
- Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Children under the age of 18 (Seed does offer a pediatric product — PDS-08)
- Pill-averse individuals that prefer powdered or gummy supplements
Our Experience Using Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this Seed Probiotic review, our tester, a Certified Transformational Nutrition Coach and Certified Holistic Health Coach, tested the DS-01 formulation for multiple weeks, utilizing our supplement testing methodology to rate the profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest) in key categories. We also leaned on past experiences with 27 other examples of the best probiotics for men and women, comparing Seed’s performance to these high-quality silhouettes.
Ingredients and Formulation
Seed’s DS-01 Synbiotic formula is made with 24 strains of probiotics and a mix of prebiotic fiber to feed your gut bacteria. The ViaCap capsule is designed to release the prebiotic components in the small intestine and the probiotic strains in the colon for optimal absorption.
Our expert tester didn’t notice any adverse results when trialing Seed. They gave it a 5 out of 5 for side effects, saying, “I didn’t experience any unwanted side effects from this Seed offering. That said, I am accustomed to probiotic supplements and do recognize that others may experience some growing pains like bloating, GI distress, or other issues when first starting out with these capsules.”
Additionally, Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD adds, “Some people may experience mild side effects from taking a probiotic, such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea. This can be especially apparent when starting a new supplement since your gut is growing accustomed to the added microbiota.”
DS-01 can be taken with food or on an empty stomach, giving you all the time in the day to take your probiotic — take it with your next high-protein breakfast or as a midday serving.
Taste
Taste earns a 5 out of 5 on our scoring rubric, as well. Our expert tester had no qualms with this Seed supplement, saying, “These capsules had no present taste, nor did they have any lingering flavors post-consumption. In all, they were very easy to get down.”
Solubility
A full dose of Seed DS-01 is two capsules, which our tester called pretty average in their experience. However, if you’re not a fan of swallowing pills, you might not be a huge fan of the capsule size. Our tester gave DS-01 a 4-out-of-5 rating for swallowability, stating, “The pills themselves are larger than others in my medicine cabinet. Some may prefer a smaller profile, especially those with more pill-averse preferences.”
Still, the ViaCap technology adds an interesting component to the product’s solubility. The delayed-release capsules allow the prebiotic components to be released in the small intestine and the probiotics in the colon. So, while these pills may not necessarily go down as smooth as, say, your best protein powder, you can rest assured that the gut-boosting goods are reaching their desired destination.
Price Per Serving
A 30-day supply of Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic will set you back $49.99. This breaks down to roughly $1.67 per serving, earning a 2-out-of-5 rating for price on our testing scale. However, you can get a 25% discount on your first month’s shipment.
Third-Party Testing
Dietary supplements aren’t regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so we’re big on companies that offer a little transparency with third-party testing. It’s important to know that what’s on the label is actually what’s in the product you’re consuming.
While this synbiotic supplement undergoes several third-party tests for potency, survivability, allergens, and contaminants, it is not certified by a major organization such as NSF or Informed Sport. Additionally, the certificates of analysis are not available for review on the brand’s site. Still, every batch is tested for harmful microbes, heavy metals, and potency. Accordingly, we rate this Seed Probiotic at 3 out of 5 for the category.
What to Consider Before Buying Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
We’ve tested dozens of probiotic supplements, and if we’ve learned one thing, it’s that many factors go into choosing the right product for your needs. First and foremost, let the science speak for itself. We want health claims to be supported by evidence-based research. Look for products made with clinically-studied ingredients and tested by third-party labs for quality and safety. And of course, talk with your doctor before popping that probiotic. Below are some additional factors worth considering, along with how Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic stacks up in each category.
- AFUs Per Serving: While probiotic supplements are often measured in colony-forming units (CFUs), AFUs are a more precise measurement for understanding the count and viability of living microbes in a product. Each dose of Seed DS-01 Synbiotic contains 53.6 billion AFUs.
- Included Probiotic Strains: Like supplements with a blend of essential amino acids, you should aim for a probiotic profile with multiple bacteria strains for supporting your gut microbiota. DS-01 contains 24 strains of probiotics, including Bifidobacterium, Lactiplantibacillus, Limosilactobacillus, and Ligilactobacillus strains.
- Supplement Form: Most probiotics are available as powders and capsules, although some brands offer gummies for a unique supplement experience. Choose a profile that suits your consumption preferences. DS-01 is available in capsule form.
- Storage Requirements: Given that probiotic supplements contain live bacteria, some products may need to be refrigerated once opened to preserve the profile’s effectiveness. Others, like DS-01, can be shelf-stable and require no special storage needs. In our personal experience, though, it may be best to always place your probiotics in the fridge — better safe than sorry.
- Third-Party Testing: From the best pre-workout supplements to BCAAs, protein, and probiotics, opting for a supplement that’s undergone independent testing can be a good practice to follow. These stamps of approval ensure the formulation has been tested for banned substances, heavy metals, or other contaminants and that the label accurately depicts what’s included in the makeup. DS-01 undergoes quality and allergen testing with a third-party lab.
- Added Ingredients: In addition to the listed probiotic strains found in your supplement, it can also be wise to look at the additional ingredients contained within the makeup, especially if you have a known sensitivity or allergy. Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic also includes organic rice fiber, organic rice extract blend, and Indian pomegranate.
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic Vs. Competitors
Not all probiotic supplements are created equal, so how does DS-01 stack up against the competitors? We compared it to two high-quality, all-in-one probiotic products — Ritual Synbiotic+ and Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic — and found it fell somewhere in the middle for most categories. It wasn’t the cheapest, but it also wasn’t the most expensive. It didn’t have the most live bacteria per dose, but it also didn’t have the least. However, its formula had the highest number of probiotic strains — something to consider if you’re looking for strain-specific health benefits. Read below for more details.
| Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic | Ritual Synbiotic+ | Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic | |
| Price Per Serving | $1.67 | $2.00 | $1.53 |
| Serving Size | 2 capsules | 1 capsule | 2 capsules |
| CFUs Per Serving | 53.6 billion AFUs | 11 billion CFUs | 100 billion CFUs |
| Included Strains | 24 probiotic strains | 2 probiotic strains | 10 probiotic strains |
| Storage Requirements | No refrigeration required | No refrigeration required | No refrigeration required |
| Third-Party Testing | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Like Seed Probiotic, Ritual Synbiotic+ operates on a subscription-based platform that delivers gut-boosting probiotics to your doorstep on your schedule. We also appreciate Synbiotic+ for its impressive transparency that allows you to track each ingredient back to its source. While the single capsule serving size is also appealing, we do have to note the heightened cost of each dose — you’ll need to pay $2 per serving as opposed to Seed’s $1.67.
Transparent Labs Gut Health Probiotic offers 100 billion CFUs per two-capsule serving, which trumps DS-01’s 53.6 billion AFUs. These shelf-stable capsules are also third-party tested for label accuracy and purity. However, the instructions state that Gut Health Probiotic must be taken on an empty stomach, which is a more restrictive recommendation than Seed’s.
Places to Buy Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
You can purchase DS-01 Daily Synbiotic at the following retailers:
- Directly from Seed.com
- Amazon
- Target
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
Except for price, our tester offered positive feedback every step of the way with their Seed experience — and they aren’t alone. Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic has over 7,000 customer reviews on the company’s website, averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars. You get to decide how often you get a subscription delivery, and you can reschedule or cancel at any time. Plus, shipping is always free!
However, it might be Seed’s 30-day risk-free guarantee that really gives you peace of mind when ordering DS-01. If you’re not satisfied with the product — for any reason — you can request a refund within 30 days of your first delivery.
Our Final Verdict on Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic
Whether looking for one of the best probiotic supplements for women, men, weight loss, or general gut support, Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic is a worthy contender. While it can support gut health for those with digestive tract issues like IBS and constipation, it also offers overall health benefits when included in a well-balanced lifestyle. Its prebiotic fiber feeds the good bacteria in your gut, and its 24 strains of probiotics can be a key player in heart health, skin health, digestion, and nutrient absorption. Just be sure your budget can support the repeat deliveries every one, three, or six months.
Before beginning a new supplement, talk with your healthcare provider or registered dietitian to ensure it fits into your lifestyle and supports your health goals. Additionally, we recommend opting for a probiotic supplement with multiple bacteria strains within the makeup, as well as a profile that’s undergone independent testing. Follow these suggestions, and your gut microbiota could soon be in for an upgrade.
Seed Probiotic Review FAQs
Do Seed Probiotics have negative side effects?
Because gut health is so involved, everyone can respond differently to probiotic supplements. Some people may experience digestive tract issues like bloating, frequent bowel movements, and stomach discomfort. “In general, though, probiotic supplements are safe to consume,” adds Dr. Raj Dasgupta, MD.
How much does Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic cost?
A monthly subscription of Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic will set you back $49.99, or approximately $1.67 per serving.
How long does it take to see results from Seed Probiotics?
Digestive health isn’t one-size-fits-all, so results will vary when taking a probiotic supplement. The company recommends starting with a conservative dose for three days and then advancing to the two-capsule dose.
Does Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic work for weight loss?
Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic is not marketed as a weight loss supplement. However, research has shown that your digestive system plays a key role in weight management. (2)
References
- de Vos WM, Tilg H, Van Hul M, Cani PD. Gut microbiome and health: mechanistic insights. Gut. 2022;71(5):1020-1032. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326789
- Van Hul, M., & Cani, P. D. (2023). The gut microbiota in obesity and weight management: Microbes as friends or Foe? Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 19(5), 258–271. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36650295/
