Saccharomyces boulardii: Probiotic Benefits, Uses, and What the Research Shows

When your gut is off, Saccharomyces boulardii, a non-pathogenic yeast used as a probiotic to restore gut balance and fight diarrhea. Also known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae var. boulardii, it’s not a bacteria like most probiotics—it’s a friendly yeast that survives stomach acid and works differently in your intestines. Unlike bacteria-based probiotics, it doesn’t colonize your gut long-term. Instead, it acts like a temporary peacekeeper, calming inflammation, blocking bad bacteria, and helping your body bounce back faster after antibiotics or travel.

This yeast probiotic is commonly used for diarrhea, a common side effect of antibiotics, travel, or infections. Studies show it cuts the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea by nearly half. It’s also used for Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), a serious gut infection that can follow heavy antibiotic use, and even for recurring traveler’s diarrhea, often caused by contaminated food or water. People with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) sometimes use it too, though results vary. It’s not a cure, but it often helps reduce symptoms when other things fail.

What makes Saccharomyces boulardii stand out? It doesn’t get wiped out by antibiotics, so you can take it while on a course of pills like amoxicillin or clindamycin. It also helps rebuild the gut lining and may reduce bloating and gas. But it’s not for everyone—people with weakened immune systems or central IV lines should avoid it. And while it’s generally safe, some report mild stomach upset at first.

The posts below cover real cases where people used Saccharomyces boulardii alongside other treatments—from managing antibiotic side effects to supporting recovery after gut infections. You’ll also find guides on how to pick the right supplement, what to watch for, and how it fits into broader gut health strategies. Whether you’re dealing with chronic diarrhea, recovering from illness, or just trying to keep your gut steady, this collection gives you the facts without the fluff.