In the world of bodyweight slimming supplements, you have many options, some of which may not be safe due to harmful contaminants and stimulants. The makers of LeanBiome (Lean For Good) are taking a different approach with a supplement that contains a unique blend of probiotics and prebiotics. Strange as it may sound, there is evidence certain types of probiotics may support healthy weight loss – and this supplement has those kinds of bacteria. Can LeanBiome help you drain the swamp in your gut, readjust microbiome diversity to a healthier state and reduce cravings to promote effective weight loss? In this honest review, see the ingredients, clinical research as well as how to avoid getting ripped off, the downsides to this supplement, and how to get a refund if it is not working for you. Affiliate Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links which means if you decide to make a purchase after clicking a link, this site will make a small commission. It helps pay for the time and effort that went into bringing this information to you. The company pays this, not you, and commissions do not influence the conclusions reached. See the affiliate disclosure page for more information.
Quick Look Summary
Supplement type | Probiotic and prebiotic |
Evidence | Contains research-studied ingredients |
Claims | Promote gut health, weight loss, metabolism, and lipid support |
Stimulants? | No stimulants |
Side effects? | No serious effects are expected for healthy people |
Country made | Manufactured in the USA |
Return policy | 180 days no questions asked. Shipping returned too. |
Are discounts available? | Yes at the official company website |
How Does LeanBiome Actually Work?
The supplement manufacturer takes a different approach by not including any stimulants or laxatives which can be harmful and addicting. Instead, the company seeks to promote weight loss by incorporating a unique combination of probiotic bacteria not found elsewhere that have been shown in high-quality clinical studies to modulate gut health to foster robust weight loss and curb appetite by improving glycemic control. Some of the ingredients may also improve insulin resistance and lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels too.
LeanBiome Doctor Formulated Claim
The company claims a doctor-formulated their supplement. But, they do not provide the name of the physician or his/her medical specialty. They don't discuss if the medical professional is an MD, DO, Ph.D., chiropractor, functional medicine practitioner, or naturopathic physician (ND). Since most physicians receive little nutrition instruction in medical school, this claim can usually be discounted.
On the official website, you see an attractive, thin woman who talks about how she's so confident you'll love LeanBiome that she's giving people an extra-long money-back guarantee. Who is this woman? Her name is Meghan See and she is the co-founder of LeanBiome. At one point weighing 420 pounds, Meghan lost 240 pounds in 17 months after she said she discovered the research on the LeanBiome formula. She is also the author of the book See Megan Shrink.
LeanBiome Nutrition Facts & Ingredients
Each bottle has 30 capsules which will last you a month. Take 1 timed-released capsule per day. One capsule contains the following prebiotics and 9 different probiotic ingredients.
Amount Per Serving | |
Lactobacillus gasseri | 25 mg (10 billion CFU) |
Lactobacillus rhamnosus | 10 mg (5 billion CFU) |
Proprietary Blend | 10 mg (5 billion CFU) |
Lactobacillus fermentum | |
Lactobacillus paracasei | |
Lactobacillus plantarum | |
Bifodobacterium bifidum | |
Bifidobacterium lactis | |
Bifidobacterium longum | |
Bifidobacteriuim breve | |
Inulin | 200 mg |
Green Tea Phytosome | 300 mg |
Probiotic Weight Loss Research Summary
Lactobacillus gasseri
This is the first probiotic bacteria listed, which tells us it's important for the weight loss effects. This bacteria does have weight reduction proof.
In one high-quality clinical trial, lactobacillus gasseri significantly reduced visceral adipose fat in overweight and obese men and women when a supplement providing 10 billion CFU was taken daily for 3 months. This is exactly the concentration of viable skinny bacteria that the LeanBiome formula contains. Visceral fat is the worst kind to have as it raises inflammation and is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and strokes.
This study used a specific strain of lactobacillus gasseri called BNR17. While the company does not specify the strain of gasseri lactobacillus it uses, since the dosage is the same as the clinical trial, it's a good chance it probably has the BNR17 strain. Other studies have documented lactobacillus gasseri also helps reduce irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) abdominal pain.
In another high-quality clinical study, the lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055 strain was shown to significantly reduce visceral body fat by almost 5% and subcutaneous belly fat by over 3% when it was given daily to overweight men and women for 3 months. This study also revealed a significant reduction in body mass index and waist circumference too. In other words, people looked skinnier. A similar investigation also showed Lactobacillus gasseri probiotic bacteria were capable of significantly lowering visceral belly fat by about 8%.
Based on these clinical trials, it seems possible that Lactobacillus gasseri probiotic bacteria strains have weight reduction and body fat-burning benefits.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhammosus also has its share of weight loss proof. In one such high-quality investigation, researchers observed that the Lactobacillus rhamnosus CGMCC1.3724 strain, combined with prebiotics (inulin and oligofructose) produced greater weight loss than a placebo in women who took the supplement for 3 months. Interestingly the supplement did not appear to work in men so more studies are needed to better figure that out.
ProBiotic Proprietary Blend (5 billion CFU)
The LeanBiome probiotic blend contains 7 different types of bacteria that together provide 5 billion colony forming units (CFU). A colony-forming unit is a viable, living bacteria that is able to reproduce inside of you. The LeanBiome supplement contains enough bacteria to produce 5 billion new colonies in your large intestine (colon). The probiotics listed at the top of this blend are present in the highest concentrations. Those at the bottom make up less of the proprietary blend.
Lactobacillus fermentum
Feeding animals a high-fat diet causes them to gain weight – but not when the animals also are given lactobacillus fermentum. This bacteria appears to prevent weight gain from overeating. Some evidence suggests this occurs via lactobacillus fermentum's ability to ramp up the activity of brown adipose tissue, a type of body fat that is more metabolically active. This boosts metabolism. While this anti-obesity effect has not yet been tested in people, there are a number of animal studies verifying this does appear to be occurring.
In animals, lactobacillus fermentum appears to exert antioxidant effects, reducing free radical damage to cells. This may be due to the bacteria's ability to regenerate glutathione, a powerful antioxidant substance. Other research suggests this type of probiotic bacteria can reduce uric acid levels, potentially making it effective for people who suffer from gout pain. Other research papers suggest lactobacillus fermentum may also reduce breast pain in lactating moms.
Lactobacillus paracasei
Researchers believe certain types of probiotic bacteria protect against obesity. When children were screened for the kinds of bacteria they had inside their guts, it was discovered those kids who possessed more Lactobacillus paracasei, were less likely to be overweight even if they consumed diets high in fat or simple sugars. This hints that Lactobacillus paracasei – like lactobacillus fermentum – may have anti-obesity/anti-body weight gain – effects.
Besides research linking Lactobacillus paracasei to fewer seasonal allergies, other evidence hints this bacteria may also help protect against cavities. In addition, this bacteria also appears to increase the production of important immune components called natural killer cells, which help protect us from diseases like cancer.
Lactobacillus plantarum
Like other probiotics in the LeanBiome formula, Lactobacillus plantarum also seems to prevent gaining weight when eating a high-fat diet, such as the standard American diet. Most of this evidence stems from animal research so human studies need to confirm this. Other studies suggest Lactobacillus plantarum reduces inflammation and free radical damage (oxidative stress). These effects are in line with other studies suggesting this probiotic also protects against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a disease projected to be a leading cause of liver transplants in the future. This bacteria may also have anti-viral effects too although human studies need to test if it prevents colds and flu in people.
Bifodobacterium bifidum
In one randomized clinical trial, when researchers gave people a combination of bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus acidophilus, and Bifidobacterium animalis for 6 months, they reported, that the probiotic blend promoted more significant weight loss than people who did not take the supplement. In addition, the supplement appeared to work better in women and in those whose cholesterol levels were higher than they should be.
Bifidobacterium bifidum was also demonstrated to reduce small, dense LDL particles – considered the most harmful type of artery-clogging bad cholesterol. Other investigations involving animals suggest various strains of Bifidobacterium bifidum may either promote weight loss or reduces the chances of gaining weight in addition to lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
Bifidobacterium lactis
At least one high-quality investigation revealed that a supplement containing a combination of Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus acidophilus was not effective for weight loss when given to overweight girls for 6 weeks. One possible drawback was that the researchers may have used incorrect strains of probiotic bacteria. More specifically, this investigation involved the use of Bifidobacterium lactis BS01 and Lactobacillus acidophilus LA02. Might other strains show beneficial effects?
Bifidobacterium longum
Research suggests Bifidobacterium longum has the potential to counter the effects of obesity by reducing blood sugar levels in overweight people who took the probiotic for 12 weeks. In animals, Bifidobacterium longum promotes weight loss.
At least one study involving animals revealed Bifidobacterium longum reduced inflammation in the colon (colitis). Other research suggests Bifidobacterium longum, given with other probiotics may reduce depression and feelings of aggression however more studies are required to verify this.
Bifidobacteriuim breve
Bifidobacterium breve is found in breast milk and is the most abundant bacteria found in infants who are breastfed. This bacteria has been shown to have has immune-stimulating effects, and is toxic to disease-causing microorganisms.
In one high-quality study researchers gave overweight kids with insulin resistance the combination of Bifidobacterium breve BR03 (DSM 16604) and B. breve B632 (DSM 24706), in addition to a reduced-calorie diet for 8 weeks. They reported that the probiotic combination reduced insulin resistance. In other words, the hormone insulin worked better at reducing blood sugar. This means this probiotic may help people manage their diabetes better.
Inulin (200 mg)
Inulin comes from chicory root and is sometimes called chicory root extract. Don't confuse it with the hormone, insulin as they are not the same thing. Inulin is a soluble fiber that we humans cannot digest. However, inulin can be digested by intestinal gut bacteria. This is why inulin is also called a prebiotic. Prebioitcs are the food that probiotic bacteria prefer to eat. Since LeanBiome is a probiotic supplement, it's wise for the company to add inulin since it gives the bacteria something to eat before you use the supplement. This helps keep the bacteria alive and viable when you take it.
Inulin has also been shown to be effective for weight loss as well. Remember, inulin is a fiber that we cannot digest. So it provides us with zero calories. Inulin fiber also improves satiety, reducing the urge to eat. While there is only 200 mg of inulin in LeanBiome, the satiety-boosting effect of inulin may be another way the Lean Biome formula helps promote healthy weight loss.
Green Tea Phytosome (300 mg)
A phytosome is a phospholipid such as lecithin which encapsulates a substance to improve its absorption and delivery into the body. In LeanBiome, caffeine-free green tea is surrounded by lecithin (GreenSelect phytosome) to enhance the usage of green tea catechins like ECGC by the body. Catechins are natural antioxidants found in green tea. Green tea also contains other polyphenols which may also provide additional prebiotics, further nurturing the probiotic bacteria before they arrive at your home. GreenSelect phytosome provides a good source of green tea nutrients such as:
- Polyphenols: 19%–25%
- Epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG): Greater than 13%
It's also extremely low in caffeine – basically caffeine-free – at less than 0.1%. This means LeanBiome won't keep you awake at night. In one clinical trial people with borderline metabolic syndrome (borderline pre-diabetes) took GreenSelect Phytosome for 6 months. It was revealed that 68% of the people lost about 10 pounds and showed enough improvements in body weight, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels, that they were no longer considered to have metabolic syndrome.
Can Green Tea Help Diabetes?
Watch on my Youtube channel if you prefer.
How Do You Take LeanBiome? Usage Directions.
The capsules are time-released which means you don't need to take more than is recommended. Time-released capsules ensure you are delivered a steady stream of probiotics and prebiotics throughout the day. The company suggests taking 1 capsule each day. That's it. The company doesn't specify if it's better to take capsules with food or on an empty stomach. But, based on some research it may be best to take LeanBiome with a meal or at least 30 minutes before eating. Taking the capsules while eating may reduce how many probiotics survive.
Is It Sold In Stores?
Currently, the supplement does not appear to be sold in local stores like GNC, Vitamin Shoppe, Walmart, Costco, Rite Aid, Walgreens, Sams Club, or Target. This may change in the future so leave a comment below if you have seen it in stores. Some companies may sell LeanBiome on Amazon or eBay however the ingredients may be different.
Be sure to check the ingredients you see elsewhere against what you see here. Some counterfeit versions may not even contain probiotics! To be clear, the real company does not use controversial ingredients like garcinia cambogia, which research links to liver failure. If you see garcinia cambogia, listed, that is not the supplement made by the Lean For Good company.
How To Buy LeanBiome And How Much Does It Cost?
Prices will vary so check the official website for discounts, coupons, and updates. When last checked, here were purchase prices:
- 1 bottle: $59 + 9.99 shipping (30 day supply)
- 3 bottles : $147 ($49 per bottle) + 9.95 shipping
- 6 bottles: $540 ($39 per bottle) Free Shipping
All orders come with a 6-month (180-day) money-back guarantee. That's pretty impressive that you can get a refund on everything, even if you order 6 bottles. After ordering, you will receive your purchase within 5-7 business days. If ordering outside the US, it may take 1 to 2 weeks to arrive.
What Happens When You Run Out And Want More?
Auto shipments occur when a company rebills you at regular intervals. The LeanBiome company does not do auto-shipments. When you run out, you, need to order it again from the company. This prevents unexpected charges to your credit card. You can order more supplements here.
Does LeanBiome Contain Soy, Nuts, or Gluten?
This is a pretty clean label supplement that does not contain soy, gluten, or nuts. In addition, the supplement is:
- free from both eggs and crustaceans
- dairy-free
- BPA-free
- non-GMO
- gluten-free
- vegan
LeanBiome Weight Loss Clinical Studies & Results
The Oxford Brooks University Study
To support and reinforce its effectiveness for altering body composition, the Lean For Good company points people to several human clinical investigations, which you can see for yourself on the company's website. This study was conducted at Oxford Brooks University in the UK.
Summary
The study involved 20 overweight and obese women. Half are given a placebo and the other half are given the supplement for 4 weeks.
Results
It was reported that women taking the supplement:
- Had reduced cravings for sweets
- Consumed less fat when eating meals (in contrast, fat intake increased in the placebo takers)
- People reported better bowel habits
Problems With The study
- The study appears to be on a supplement called SlimBiome
- No weight loss was reported
- The study only lasted 1 month which may be why no significant weight loss was reported
- The study may not be peer-reviewed.
Glycemic Response Study
Summary
This investigation took place at the University of Roehampton and involved 12 healthy men and women who were given the supplement or sugar, to see how much each raised blood sugar levels (glycemic response).
Results
- LeanBiome has a glycemic response of only 31 which means has a low glycemic index (that's good).
- Blood sugar levels after eating were lower with the supplement compared to when people were given sugar
Problems
- The study may not be peer-reviewed
- No placebo group
- The people were healthy and did not have diabetes
Impact of LeanBiome on Body Composition and Gut Microbiome Diversity
Summary
12 women who were overweight and obese are given the supplement along with a 1500 calorie diet for 4 weeks.
Results
- Women taking LeanBiome showed statically significant reductions in body composition and physical appearance
- Had fewer cravings for sweet and savory foods and improved mood
- Improved gut microbiome diversity. Improvements in the kinds of bacteria that are associated with having a lean body mass.
- Bowel movements improved
- No side effects reported
Problems
- There was no placebo group
- The study may not be peer-reviewed
LeanBiome Supplement Real Customer Results
Endorsements from real customers who used the supplement appear to be few and far in between. That is a downside and may be due to it being a relatively new supplement. Further confusing are the fake reviews that promise miracle results without any side effects.
To their credit, the company shows testimonials from verified customers claiming they lost between 26 pounds and 40 pounds using the supplement's formula. Weight loss of this magnitude likely took several months. I wish there were more honest testimonials from satisfied customers.
Lean Biome Side Effects and Negative Adverse Reactions
While the supplement is probably safe for healthy people if you have experienced a negative reaction, leave a comment below to help others. No serious harmful side effects were discovered when investigating this slimming product. That said, the formula has not been adequately tested for safety in people with health issues. A temporary increase in flatulence and/or GI pain may be noticed by some who start taking probiotic supplements. Here are some general things to keep in mind when using this or any probiotic supplement.
- Start with less than recommended for the first week. Give your body time to adjust.
- Don't use Lean Biome while taking antibiotics (unless your doctor says it's ok)
- If you take medications, speak to your pharmacist and doctor
- Stop taking at least 2 weeks before surgery
- Speak to your doctor if you have undergone bariatric weight loss surgery
- Ask your doctor, if you have a weakened immune system or leaky gut syndrome
Who Makes The LeanBiome Supplement?
The company is called Lean For Good (LeanForGood.com) also known as Lean Life Now (LeanLifeNow.com). The company is located at 315 Deaderick St., Suite 1550, Nashville, TN 37235. However, this is probably not where the probiotic supplements are manufactured as the address corresponds to Intelligent Office, an office space provider. The company states their supplement is manufactured in the US but doesn't mention the country where they get the ingredients from or their sources. They do state the ingredients are not genetically modified (non-GMO), so that is good.
The company has no negative complaints listed with the Better Business Bureau. That is encouraging as it may mean consumers are happy with their purchases and results and don't feel this is a scam supplement.
LeanBiome Money Back Guarantee Time Limit
Here is another area where this supplement shines. The Lean For Good company promises that every bottle comes with a whopping 180-day (that's 6-month) money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with the results. This is a true 100% full refund because the company WILL ALSO RETURN ALL YOUR SHIPPING COSTS! They will do this even if all the bottles are empty. That is almost unprecedented.
This means if you need a refund, you don't just get a return on your initial investment. You also get refunded on the money you spent to return the bottles too. This is a much better return policy than other most other companies. Tip. Keep all of the bottles you have as this is important to get a refund. You'll only get refunds on bottles you return.
How To Get a Refund From Lean For Good Company
If LeanBiome isn't to your satisfaction, follow these steps to get a full refund:
- Email the company at Support@LeanforGood.com within 180 days of your purchase. Your purchase may have come with a customer service phone number too.
- Include your full name and email address you used when ordering
- The customer service rep will issue you a return merchandise authorization (RMA) number
- Return all bottles – with the RMA number – to Lean for Good: 1301 Ridgeview Drive, McHenry, IL 60050
Within 5 days of receiving your return, you will have all your funds credited back to your credit card.
LeanBiome For Depression?
Emerging evidence suggests dysbiosis of the proper healthy balance of bacteria in the gut may play a role in anxiety and depression. While there's no evidence the Lean Biome supplement specifically helps mental states, it's interesting that the formula does contain probiotics which some feel might help depression and anxiety issues including:
- Lactobacillus plantarum
- Lactobacillus gasseri
- Lactobacillus rhamnosus
- Lactobacillus paracasei
- Bifidobacteriuim breve
- Bifidobacterium longum
How these gut bacteria impact mental state is not well understood but may have to do with improving diversity in the colon and also by promoting enhanced production of short-chain fatty acids like butyrate and propionate which travel from the gut upstream to the brain.
Can Probiotics Help Oral Health?
While the Lean Biome formula is advertised mostly for weight loss, metabolism, cravings, and overall colon health, the mouth is where the gut begins. Interestingly, several of the probiotics found in the formula are also found inside the mouth. For example, these kinds of lactobacillus bacteria are found in the oral cavity: Lactobacillus paracasei, plantarum, and rhamnosus. These bacteria might work in the mouth by reducing inflammation, enhancing the immune system, and working against cavity-causing bacteria like Streptococcus mutans. While there's no evidence showing Lean Biome probiotics reduce cavities or dental plaque but it's an interesting possibility worthy of research.
LeanBiome vs. SlimBiome: What's The Difference?
SlimBiome is a dietary supplement from a UK-based company called OptiBioTix. Since the supplements sound similar, you may be wondering if they are the same thing. SlimBiome contains a proprietary blend of ingredients including fructooligosaccharide, glucomannan, and chromium picolinate in addition to various B vitamins and other minerals. This is very different from the prebiotic and probiotic ingredients in the LeanBiome formula. Thus, SlimBiome is not the same thing. At least one clinical trial appears to show SlimBiome might significantly reduce subjective reduce hunger (but not cravings) in overweight women.
LeanBiome Pros & Cons
Pros | Cons |
Research-based ingredients | Kind of pricey |
Some ingredients may aid in weight loss | Counterfeit versions exist. Buy from official website only |
Contains a similar dosage used in clinical trials | |
6-month money-back guarantee | |
The company returns shipping costs | |
No auto-shipments | |
Take only 1 capsule per day |
Does LeanBiome Formula Really Work?
So the ingredients make sense and I like that the company includes clinically studied dosages of bacteria that are the same as those used in research investigations. I do its effectiveness will vary from person to person. In theory, if it works, it may be most effective in those who are very overweight as opposed to people who only need to lose a few pounds. Remember, exercise and eating a reduced-calorie diet are important for maximal results. The 180-day money-back guarantee is sure to put at ease those who are on the fence and not sure if they might need a refund.
Here's the company website to learn more.
Jami Peters says
Its been a week and I have not lost anything.
Joe says
Hi Jamie, I think you have to give it more than a week. I don’t think any weight loss supplement works that well. I think it will take at least a month to see meaningful differences. A few tips also are to weigh yourself in the morning, before breakfast, naked and after going to the bathroom.
Liz says
Has anyone noticed they are pooping better? Just started taking this and within five days I realized I was doing #2 more often. I usually go once every 1-2 days but now I’m doing 2x a day. I’m not complaining and am quite pleased with this. In the past, I’ve tried drinking more eater and eating more fiber but this really did the trick for me.
Joe says
Hi Liz, it makes some sense. Ive heard from others who said probiotics improved bathroom habits. I’m glad to learn you are seeing some benefits from LeanBiome.
Jacqui says
Its been three about weeks since I began taking this supplement and I can happily report I am down 3 pounds. I have not noticed any side effects and Im anxious to see how long I can ride this out. So far Im pleased with what I am seeing.
Thanks for this review!
Joe says
Thanks for sharing Jacqui thanks great to learn! I wish you continued success with LeanBiome 🙂
Roberta says
What a joy to find such a detailed review. It took me over an hour to digest (pun intended) all of what you wrote. Im definitely intrigued by the effects of lactobacillus gasseri. Just ordered this product and am awaiting to see what happens. I would not say I have a “lot” of body weight to lose but enough that Im hoping lean biome can give me a jump start. Wish me luck 🙂
Joe says
Thanks for your kind words, Roberta! Thanks for taking the time to “digest” it all 🙂 I do hope LeanBiome helps you. I was intrigued with some of the research I saw and do hope it helps many achieve their goals.