Back Story:
In late September, I was having a conversation with my best friend about Plexus. It seemed like we both knew at least 3 people who sold it, and they all made convincing arguments about its validity, had amazing before and after pictures, and had hundreds of testimonials about it. Because we both had gained a few pounds and were feeling a little lethargic in day-to-day life, Plexus presents itself as a miracle cure and magic bullet.
For those of you who are not super familiar with Plexus, it is a MLM (like Herbalife, ItWorks!, Arbonne, etc.) who markets supplements on the basis of fixing your “gut health” as the key to overall wellness.
Because I actually do believe in the validity of gut health, Plexus seems intriguing to me. I’ve been hearing about it on acquaintance’s Instagram stories for well over 2 years now, but to be completely honest, I’ve never truly looked into the products.
In the conversation with my friend, we both made the conclusion that “hey, maybe if someone we know is selling some of the stuff on promotion, we should both try it and see what happens”.
*insert one week later* and a girl that lived on my dorm my freshman year of college was promoting a discount on Plexus. I messaged her on Instagram and she promptly sent me her recommendations and some literature about the products. I think it’s pretty standard for the Plexus ambassadors to recommend the Plexus Triplex to new buyers as it is their three best selling products, which is what she recommended to me. It is a 30-day supply of BioCleanse, Plexus Slim (affectionately known as “pink drink”), and ProBio.
I expected this stuff to be like $75 but a 30-day supply is roughly $130!!!!
(!!!!!!!)
I don’t know about y’all, but I don’t have the kind of money to be dropping once a month on supplements.
Being the prudent person that I am, I researched some of the ingredients in the products and came to the conclusion that it could be legit, but I also did have some issues with some of the ingredients (more on that later).
So naturally, I immediately googled alternatives to Plexus Triplex.
Unfortunately, I did not find a lot of blog posts anything that seemed legitimate. There were a couple of holistic websites that listed a few valid alternatives (like this one), but the supplements that they recommended as alternatives, did not always contain the ingredients that would actually promote a significant benefit. Plus the posts never actually said if the author tried them and liked them….
….so I decided to find my own alternatives to share with the Internet, in case anyone else was looking for ideas.
I spent all of a Monday and Tuesday night reading about each of the Triplex products, their ingredients, scholarly journal articles on the ingredient’s validity, and other supplements that exist on the market.
My Results:
(9/25/2018) Weight: 138 lbs – Felt bloated and heavy. Felt lethargic and tired consistently. Mood sucks.
(10/18/2018) Weight: 136 lbs – I genuinely feel like I have more energy (could be a placebo effect though). Feel less bloated.
Minor Disclaimer:
I want to remind anyone reading this post that supplements will NEVER replace healthy eating and regular exercise. There is no such thing as a magic pill to burn fat (trust me, if there was, obesity wouldn’t be such an epidemic in this country)!
In the studies that Plexus conducted on their products that showed some weight loss versus the placebo group, all of the participants were on a Mediterranean diet. Aka they were eating healthy, lean meats, vegetables, and whole grains. But also, the placebo group (the one’s not using Plexus, but eating a Mediterranean diet) lost some weight too! If you’re eating pizza, candy bars, and fried foods every day, you are not eating a diet that is good for your digestive health in the first place, and you should probably reconsider your diet choices before looking for a quick fix to your weight or digestive issues.
I work out (~3 times a week) and eat healthy 90% of the time, yet was still feeling lethargic and gaining a couple pounds which is why I looked into this.
I also took my daily prenatal vitamin with all of these supplements.
UPDATE 3/26/2024: I have now posted a update with what supplements I take these days 🙂
The Plexus Triplex & My Alternatives
1. BioCleanse:
Let’s be honest. This is like a laxative. I think the purpose is to “cleanse your colon of all the bad stuff” so that good stuff can grow. I’m not sure if there is science to back that up, but for the sake of this “experiment”, we will roll with it.
Magnesium is what is doing all the work in this product– you’ll find some laxatives are high doses of magnesium to relax the smooth muscle of the GI tract to produce a bowel movement.
The tolerable upper intake of magnesium supplements (you can’t really OD on magnesium that you get through your diet), is 350 mg for males and females >9 years of age. Some sources even recommend a max of 280-300 mg for women.
Bio-cleanse recommends 2- 380 mg twice a day, so a total of 1520 mg a day.
In most cases you can’t really OD on magnesium (unless you have kidney issues). Most excess gets excreted through your urine, but I just don’t think it is healthy to be taking a laxative every single day. It can throw your other electrolytes out of whack! I’m also cautious about high doses of magnesium daily because it competes with calcium, which is not great for us ladies who are already predisposed to osteoporosis.
So the main ingredients in BioCleanse are bioflavanoids, magnesium, and vitamin c (as citric acid).
Bioflavonoids are something found in some fruits, but especially in the rind of certain types of citrus. The research I found said it was known to help reduce inflammation and help absorb vitamin C.
My Alternative
-Magnesium 250 mg, once a day [Lower dose than BioCleanse]. You can get 100 soft-gels for pretty inexpensive on Amazon.
–Quercetin BioFlavonoid Complex, 1 capsule a day (90 capsules in a bottle on Amazon)– Quercetin is a type of bioflavonoid known to help reduce inflammation
For around $20, you can get three times more product than you get with BioCleanse. Plus the BioFlavonoid Complex I use has way more bioflavonoids in it than in Plexus.
2. Plexus Slim / “Pink Drink”
So the main ingredients in the pink drink that could have some benefit are green coffee bean extract, Xylooligosaccharide (XOS), and chromium.
To be honest, the only ingredient that I think might have some validity is XOS. Green coffee bean extract always seems to be the ingredient in fat burners that are advertised on TV and to be honest, I’m both skeptical and nervous to put anything in my body that markets itself as fat burning. Apparently chromium may help with blood sugar regularity, but clinical trials haven’t shown any significance, so I choose not to go with it.
Xylooligosaccharide (XOS) does have some serious potential though. It is a prebiotic (versus a probiotic) which essentially means that it is stuff for the bacteria to feed on (read more about why I think prebiotics are important here).
My Alternative:
XOS Prebiotic, 2 capsules before lunch or dinner [60 capsules in a bottle which is equal to a 30 day supply]– I normally take my two before lunch!
3. ProBio
ProBio is probiotics + enzymes
I am a believer in the importance of a balanced gut microbiome (aka the bacteria in the gut)– but it is a part of good diet and genetics. There is one study that looked at sets of twins in which one twin was obese and the other was a healthy weight. They transferred the gut bacteria from the twins into mice and then watched the result. The mice that received the “obese” bacteria gained weight, and the mice that received the other bacteria stayed the same weight.
I’m skeptical of the generalization that “yeast overgrowth in the gut” is the cause of the world’s issues like Plexus claims. Scientific literature says that “only a handful of case reports in the literature describe presence of Candida albicans [yeast] in the gut of otherwise healthy subjects who were older adults and presented with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms (Singh & Mullin, 2017). It is, however, an issue with patients with IBS, chronic ulcers, and autoimmune diseases/those who are immuno-compromised. There is no doubt that yeast overgrowth in the gut causes inflammation and disturbs the gut ability to absorb nutrients in that population, butttt if you are an otherwise healthy person, the science says that you probably don’t have yeast overgrowth. (This is a really good article about yeast overgrowth and that it might not be as big of an issue as Plexus reps claim https://www.self.com/story/candida-overgrowth-problem-too-much-yeast-no-too-little-science)
My Alternative:
365 Daily Probiotic, 1 tablet, twice a day (I take one with breakfast and one with dinner) [100 tablets which should equal a 50 day supply]
(P.S. make sure you refrigerate this probiotic!)
UPDATE (6/11/2019):
Because the 365 probiotic is constantly out of stock, this is the probiotic I’ve been using that I’ve been liking! Garden of Life Primal Defense Probiotic (60 capsules for under $30)
The Math:
–Magnesium 250 mg, once a day
–Quercetin BioFlavonoid Complex, 1 capsule a day
–XOS Prebiotic, 2 capsules before lunch (or dinner)
–365 Daily Probiotic, 1 tablet, twice a day
= ~$40 (And most of these products will last you longer than 30 days)
That’s about 70% less than Plexus
UPDATE: OPTIONAL ADD-ONS:
General Prenatal Vitamin (under $15 for 110 capsules)
So if you have tried Plexus and like it, but not the price tag, maybe give this a try. Or if you’re like me and seem intrigued by Plexus, but not spending $130, give this a try first.
I think I’m going to continue on with it, because I actually do feel lighter and more full of energy 🙂
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So impressed by your research!! You did a really great job of breaking down SO much information and making it understandable for those with limited medical knowledge. Excited to give this Plexus alternative a try.
I’ve been on Plexus for a year now, and although is has totally helped me, I don’t love spending that much $$ a month! This sounds like a great alternative. Do you have a follow up post since using these? I’d love to hear how they’re working for you.
I don’t currently, but that’s a great idea! I’ll definitely be working on a follow-up post 🙂 Plus some people are looking for some other probiotic suggestions, so I’m currently trying some out to be able to add that to the follow-up!
Have you tried florajen?
I’ve been taking this alternative for a couple of years now. Just found out the natural factors quercetin bioflavonoid complex has been discontinued. I need some. I’m out. Is there an alternative to it? Thanks
Weve been on plexus triplex since 2015. My husband was diagnosed with diabetes in 2013. Thank God we found this product. He is no longer on a lot of VA prescriptions that were making him worse. No more seasonal, food or pet allergies. No more migraines. No more acid reflux or bloating. I HAD rosacea. No more joint pain. It’s not just a weight loss issue. It’s a gut issue.
I know you mentioned your husbands diabetes. Are you still using Plexus and would like to know what worked best for him. I upped on my ProBio5 to 4 pills a day for 6 months and my daily blood sugars went up. Came back down to 2 a day and I am slowly coming down. Been trying to find other people to find out what items they are taking.
Hi Carolyn,
When does he take the Slim?
I have been using Plexus supplements for over 2 yrs and haven’t missed a day. They have changed my quality of life like nothing else I have ever tried. They are clinically studied and 3rd party trialed. All supplements are backed by science. They are bioavailable and methylated u like many other things on the market. If biocleanse wasn’t safe there would be hundreds of thousands of people sick from it. Not the case. I’m glad you found something that worked for you. You should do some more research on Plexus products.
Thank you for your research!! I don’t know enough about it to do this on my own. I like the idea of the Plexus results, but I can’t afford it and don’t like the idea of “quick fix” products with who knows what in them 😬.
I’ll be giving this a try 😉
I’m on Plexus and the prices seem to keep going up, but I seem to think it’s more of the shipping charges, that’s why I’m here trying to find an alternative because of price, I’ve been on it 5 years and it seems to really help because of the stomach issues I had..but with the prices going up and me on a fixed income, it’s becoming a issue…
After having used Plexus for 3 years, I tried the alternatives you suggested. I started it about 2 weeks after your first post. (Took that long to decide then to get all if the products through Amazon.
Truth be told, the products you suggested worked okay, but definitely not as good for me as the Plexus. The prices are definitely better but I ended up spending more money trying to find a version of the individual items over these months,
The one thing I still like more than your product suggestion is the Biocleanse. Unless I take 2-3-Magnesium tablets every night, I don’t get the same results. Not sure what the Quercitin is supposed to do. All in all, I gained some weight. The Slim did reduce cravings I guess, and none of the others have. I’ll keep on your stuff for awhile yet before I spend the extra cash for the Plexus. Just checking in..
Thank you for sharing your experience, Joan! Maybe I wasn’t clear enough in my post, but my rationale for cutting down on the magnesium from the amount that is in bio cleanse is that taking bio cleanse every day is really not good for your body… it’s like taking a strong laxative every day!
I’m sorry it didn’t work for you as well as you hoped. Maybe it would be worth swapping out at least a few parts of the triplex to save some money! I appreciate you checking in though and sharing your experience.
It’s actually the form of magnesium that makes Bio Cleanse safe and gentle compared to other magnesium supplements. You can’t find a comparable form of bio cleanse. And bio cleanse is NOT a laxative. Also, not all probiotics are created equal and you need to pay close attention to the strains you’re using. Unless they contain the exact same types of bacteria as plexus, they’re not comparable. Also, probio5 has enzymes AND antifungals. It’s a 3 in one product and is actually a lot more affordable than if you go bought the 3 separately. If you’re not using a natural antifungal, then your not getting the same results. Also, it looks like your dupes are pretty low quality products. Plexus isn’t expensive because you’re getting exceptional quality. You get what you pay for. So your suggestions aren’t bad and are probably better than doing nothing but isn’t not a replacement for plexus. I suggest trying plexus for a couple of months and seeing the difference yourself before making assumptions that what you’ve found is anywhere close to the real deal.
I tried Plexus. I was an ambassador. I was poor because it’s expensive. I was depressed because it took my money.
I stopped plexus. I started eating right. I started exercising regularly. I have money in my pocket. I’m no longer depressed. I feel better than ever.
Plexus, you are the weakest link. Goodbye…
Hi. Actually, my gastroenterologist works for UF and he took my plexus supplements to a meeting with the gastro board. Plexus truly has quite a bit of filler product. So I was disappointed. But he sent me links to several videos and labs that have been performed on plexus products. These products are quite cheap to make. It’s the MLM that makes it cost so much. Your doctor can prescribe and recommend the highest quality supplements that match these. There are reports that plexus refuses to put their product on shelves??? Fishy! Still way less expensive from your doctor. It has changed my life and pocket book. 😉 Thanks for sharing with these ladies! Cause plexus CAN DO BETTER! I won’t buy after 3 years on just because it’s Sammy and I dont support that. ❤
Criss
What did you doc recommend?
Thank you
Sara Ann
Thank you so much for this❤️
Just to clarify, the Plexus recommendation of taking 380 mg of magnesium twice a day would add up to a total of 760 mg – a serving size is two capsules. This is significantly less than suggested above.
Thanks for your article!
Well researched, thank you I will try this. Hoping that I will be able to find similar products in Australia
I have tried Plexus for nearly to yrs. Must admit that I did notice some small changes in my gut and over all health. Unfortunately the monthly cost of these products was unsustainable and I cancelled my order.
I don’t take Plexus either, but something you missed in your research was the ingredient chitosanase. It breaks down the cell wall of the yeast so that it can be killed easily. So I found the Plexus supplier, a company called AST Enzymes. It’s even on the Plexus bottle. I would have told you I had no significant yeast growth. I was so wrong. It was coming out of me for 3 days. A lot of it. Probiotics can only do so much when your gut is full of yeast, taking up that space and boring into your intestines leaving holes for food particles to get through, resulting in good allergies which results in inflammation and illness.
Did u buy the chitosanse? Where did u get it if so?
There is a pre/probiotic/enzyme candida supplement by Mary Ruth Organics that has chitosonase in it. I haven’t tried it yet, but it’s one I am looking at: https://www.maryruthorganics.com/products/candida-pre-probiotic-enzyme-60-count-br-supports-candida-cleanse-enhance-healthy-gut-biome-immune-support
Any probiotic that contains bacillus coulagens has chitosanse
I am very glad I found this site too! Thanks for all your research.
I actually bought into the gig last year. I wasn’t coached by this relative so it didn’t work out. Besides, without asking she took my information to sign me up with a membership! It’s why I stopped.
So, I’m very excited to have found these posts. I want to be healthy after the covid 19 weight gain.
Wow! Thank you so much for putting this together! I will share it with my friends. I hope it helps a lot of people 🙂
Thank you, Jessica!
I have been with Plexus for 2 years and I have tried everything under the sun. There is no doubt that you can “copt cat” any product, however there are a couple of things I have learned over the years.
One is that you get what you pay for. I am a total bargain shopper, but I am not about to go cheap when it comes to supplements or essential oils. It blows my mind when people spend so much on clothes, coffe stands, sun glasses, their pets, etc. Yet not on what they are putting in or on ther bodies.
Two, I want to know where things come from, how they are sourced and if they are plant based.
Three, do I think it could be done. Finding something comparable, absolutely; but I am a busy mom of 5 and I do not have the time to come up with the perfect combo that has helped me so much.
Four, yes buying Plexus at a retail price is speedy, but if you are an Ambassador or preferred customer it is less. And if you are actively and consistently working the business it is not difficult to pay for your products. I have worked the business, extremely part time and I make enough to pay for Plexus for my entire family.
Five GNC or Wholefoods does not provide you with guidance, support, friendship and community or a possible income. Why would I spend less money out of pocket when I can make money and get healthy and help others at the same time.
Also…addressing some of the comments and article, whoever is presenting it at a cure all, was doing a major disservice to the company. I have never heard that, quite the opposite and it is no quick fix or magic . You have to be consistent and have a “healthy lifestyle” to see major changes. It takes time and work even with awesome products.
I appreciate anyone who does research and self advocates. So so important. I am so happy that you found something that works for you. I personally will always be on Plexus. It has worked for me, I am making money and I am on my way to being able to stay home with my kids and still bring home a substantial paycheck.
How do you know where Plexus is getting their ingredients from? I wouldn’t take them on their word for it.. Just because you’re paying a high price doesn’t mean the ingredients are outstanding.
Phenomenal point, Jimmy!!
I agree Jimmy
Hi, I’m just curious to see how this regimen has worked for you. Are you still using everything you listed?
I have been using it on and off because of traveling, but whenever I do use it consistently, it helps with my bloating and I feel significantly better with my energy levels!
Thank you. I love the results from plexus but it doesn’t fit my budget. I appreciate your putting this list together.
Well if you give it a try, let me know!
Thanks for this info. I’ve had Hashimotos for 5 years. The first couple years I was on Plexus and noted that my critical lab values were lower at then. Then followed trying some other attempts. I’m happy to report that I started the prebiotic xos and turmeric (instead of the Quercetin since April of this year. I just had labs drawn again a few weeks ago and the only things I have done differently is the Prebiotic and tumeric. My Thyroid thyroglobulin antibodies were both cut in half in that time!! I’m so stoked! I’m going to change to theQuercetin now and see what that does. But I’m so excited and grateful for the knowledge and resources! I wanted to share in case others are looking.
Wow! What great information!! How is this going for you? And do you have any other recommendations for the probiotic? Amazon only has it through prime pantry…
I have been using it on and off because of traveling, but whenever I do use it consistently, it helps with my bloating and I feel significantly better with my energy levels. 🙂 I always buy the 365 probiotic in person at Whole Foods. Sorry about that link!
The one that I linked is a pretty basic probiotic, but there are so many great options out there. I’ve used Align and Culturelle brands of probiotics in the past and they worked well for me. I had horrible stomach issues in high school and used the culturelle brand of probiotics exclusively and they did wonders for me back then!
Thank-you SO MUCH! I took Plexus for a year, but recently decided to stop taking it due to the price. I’ll be honest…I have missed it! Your post is a blessing!! I bought everything and am excited to get back to consistently taking something. I really do appreciate all of the time you put into this post!
This comment makes me so happy to see! Let me know how it works for you. I hope that they bring results to you like it has for me! 🙂
I have also tried plexus , and am a nurse as well. and while it does seem to help boost my energy and the way i feel, i cannot justify the price. I too have been looking for cheaper alternatives, i am going to give what you recommend a try when i run out of the supply that I have now. thank you so much for posting this
Thank you for commenting! I hope you like my alternatives. Let me know how they work for you 🙂
Thank you! This is exactly what I was looking for! I’ve been on plexus for a year (because I wanted to give it a fair chance) and too be honest I’m not sure how much it has help me and I’m tired of paying the money for it if I don’t love it. But I am nervous if I get off of it that I’ll feel awful so I was looking for an alternative. I’m excited to give this a try!!
Yay! This makes me so happy to hear!! I hope you’ll share your results with my alternatives! 🙂
THANK YOU for all your research!! I’ve bought my assortment of baddies and eager to take better care of myself without breaking the bank. I’ll report back with my results 🤗!
Cheers!
Thank you! I love I was a Plexus “ambassador” for 1 year, and even with my discount, the products were still over my budget. I had added a good probiotic and magnesium, but not the pre-biotic or Quercetin.
Yea I had no idea Plexus is so expensive before I started all this investigation! It seems like it is way out of most people’s budgets. I hope the information helps you out!
Thanks for this article! I have been taking the plexus products for the past couple weeks. I do feel better and am seeing a difference in my middle but I cannot afford to be consistent with it. I will give these a try 🙂
Yay! Let me know how it goes 🙂
Definitely going to try this. I was on Plexus for about 6 months. I did lose weight and my stomach was flatter, but it about broke the bank. Thank you for your research.
Thanks for your comment! Let me know how it works for you 🙂
I have used Plexus for my migraines and my son’s migraines. It was the only thing that helped. Also, I have horrible tummy trouble. My other son was on it for his ADHD. I couldn’t afford it even though I was an ambassador and we had to stop. It made a major difference. I was just considering finding a way to go back but now I plan to look into this. Thank you!!
Wow! That’s very interesting that it made a difference for your family in those ways. I hope that these alternatives work well for you and your family!
Susan, you said that plexsus made a significant difference in your son with ADHD. Would you be willing to share what those differences are? And what products of Plexus was he using? The ones this blog is giving alternatives to?
I hate marking stuff and I’m super skeptical. Even of this blog because it says at the bottom that she gets paid if we purchase the products she is listing.
But I am so desperate to help my 8 year old daughter with ADD. I want something safe and made for kids, and not what the doctors prescribe, I’m not putting that stuff in her body. This is just so stressful.
Hi Alisha,
my friend was using Vitalbiome from Plexus….long story short, PTSD and other issues of the sort….it really helped her, it was thanks to her great results that I started with Plexus. Now looking at alternatives to Plexus she started taking “Mood” from Garden of Life and she really likes it….check it out, hope it helps.
Can you provide the link to the Garden of Life “Mood” probiotic your friend uses?There are a few choices- not sure which one to get. Thanks so much ☺️
Hi Sara,
this is the one she uses…
https://www.amazon.com/Garden-Life-Probiotic-Mood-Supplement/dp/B01LVYJK6U/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=Mood&qid=1556642246&s=hpc&sr=1-5&th=1
Hi, thanks for this! I have used Plexus for about 2.5 years and while it didn’t help me lose weight (I’m not following a Mediterranean Diet either), it did completely get rid of a life long bug phobia and overall anxiety. I’m sure the magnesium helps with that too, but it wasn’t til I added vitalbiome to triplex that I saw those results. Come to think of it, I haven’t had migraines anymore either.
My husband takes it and I wish my kids could, but we can’t afford that. We are trying to do better budgeting and looking where we can cut back and this is an obvious expense, but it’s so helpful! I know it’s ingredients helping, so your article was on point. Susan, I too am curious about what your son was taking, as I have a 15year old son with ADD and have a love/hate relationship with ADD medication.
Hi, curious, what Plexus products helped your migraines? Thanks!
Susan- my son is ADHD too and I’ve considered Plexus for him but it’s so expensive. Which Plexus products were you giving your son? Did they help his ADHD?
Hello, thanks for the article..my questions are these. After a year, are you still doing this regimen? What is the usual TOTAL cost for the supplements from the various sources (where you get them)? I like the lower price deal and have been on Plexus for almost 3 years..but as a senior citizen, I am having trouble affording it. I have been faithful with my Plexus and cannot imagine my life without it..it helped me lose 35# in a couple of years. (I also follow weight watchers but the probiotics help me stay ON WW!) I look forward to your answers.
Hi Joan!
Congrats on dropping 35 pounds! That’s truly amazing!! I actually only started using these supplements in September, so more like 5 months. And to be honest, I’ve been taking them on and off since I posted– I’m just really forgetful with taking pills! But when I do take them consistently, I notice a difference– I’m less bloated, feel better, and tend to drop a couple pounds. The total cost should be around $40– but many of the bottles will last you longer than 30 days. Much cheaper than Plexus. 🙂 Let me know if you try my alternatives. I would love to hear how they work for you!
I will give it a try, and let you know.
Joan
Hello! I just would like to give a huge thumbs up for the great info you have here on this post. I will be coming back to your blog for more soon.
Did you find any research on if this was safe to take while breastfeeding? Also did you find an alternative to the drink?
Hey Chelsea! I can’t say whether or not these would be safe to use during breastfeeding– that’s a better question for your doctor. But I will say, that if your doctor is okay with Plexus during breastfeeding, he/she should be okay with these supplements.
In the post, I listed that the prebiotic/XOS capsules was the alternative for the drink. Really the only ingredient in “pink drink” that I believe has any value is the XOS/prebiotic, and because I found that same kind of prebiotic that the drink uses, in capsule form, there’s no need to drink something (that likely has added colors and artificial sweeteners) to get the same effect. 🙂 Hope that answers your questions!
FYI, I have used Plexus for 3 years…I know that all parts of Plexus products use Stevia for their Pink drink, and the coloring is from beets. It is totally safe. The products are top quality, but not cheap. That’s my biggest issue with them. Otherwise, I would keep doing Plexus and will be trying the options you’ve listed, but if you go to the Plexus website, and look up each of the options for what you’ve suggested, you can see every single ingredient and you’ll find there are no dyes or artificial sweeteners. Stevia is a PLANT and has no toxins in it.
Joan
That’s my mistake, Joan! Thank you for pointing out that Stevia is considered a “natural non-nutritive sweetener”. To be honest, I still feel on the fence about Stevia– I know it’s from a leaf, but I am still waiting to see some more research on it before I personally conclude that it is completely safe…. Plus I dislike the taste of it (but that’s just me!) 🙂
I’m not sure what qualifications you have to make this post on the Internet, but I think you want to do more research before you make something like this public. Not only do the products you listed not even come close to what is in the triplex, but you have some missed statements on here.
A couple of things that are glaring errors as far as comparing this to triplex is that there are many more things in the triplex than what these products you list encompass. A probiotic that’s needs to be refrigerated can’t be very effective once it hits the warm environment of the mouth and gullet. ProBio5 is Freeze dried so that it is designed to not activate until reaching the lower stomach where it is most needed. Also this product contains an antifungal which kills the bad bacteria such as candida, which is such a common overgrowth. It breaks through the hard shell of the Candida.
The BioCleanse is not just magnesium but also does so much more. It oxygenates the body and flushes out toxins. Works hand-in-hand with the pro bio five to bring that got into balance.
Slim also has other components then the ones that you mention, dealing with inflammation, detoxification, and blood sugar stability.
There’s more to it than that but I find it sad that you can make the claims that you do to your own profit. I see that you make commission on those products that you tout, as an Amazon representative. You are not the only one on the Internet that is trying to make profit off Plexus name by jumping on the bandwagon and trying to offer some inferior products.
If someone were to try to replace all the ingredients in the triplex it would cost way more than what it does. And as an ambassador, you can get the products much cheaper. Besides the fact that when someone signs up under another person, they get all kinds of support and encouragement as well as information when they need it. Amazon doesn’t offer that.
I think before someone takes the opportunity to tear down the product and offer something that is not even comparable, they ought to have a good history of credentials. I don’t see that in your post nor in your comments.
Thank you for taking the time to read this, and I am curious to see if you will even post my comment. ( I certainly don’t see any other comments that bring balance to your post. )
Hi Michele, welcome to the blog! WOW. So much negativity in this comment! haha! So I guess let’s dive in!
1. I suppose you could say my qualifications include my 1st amendment rights, a degree in nursing, the ability to read and understand scientific research articles, I have published a peer-reviewed article, I’m currently working on my Master’s in nursing, etc.–but I really don’t feel like I need to prove myself to you. Of course, I never say that I am giving medical advice, simply giving information that people should ultimately discuss with their doctor (which I’m assuming you do too– based on your post, I’m guessing you are an ambassador– are you a medical professional too?).
2. I discussed every ingredient in the three items of the triplex (maybe you didn’t read it all– it’s cool, its a long post– so I’ll just copy what I wrote in my post here in the comments). I would love if you could send some peer-reviewed articles my way that show the efficacy of refrigerated probiotics versus freeze-dried. I couldn’t find any, but if you have one, I am HAPPY to learn more! But to say that a refrigerated/non-dormant probiotic cannot be effective is a confusing stance for you to take– it would imply that getting natural probiotics from sources like kombucha and sauerkraut is not effective.
3. Scientific literature says that only a handful of case reports in the literature describe presence of Candida albicans [yeast] in the gut of otherwise healthy subjects. Fungal overgrowth is usually seen as part of an immunodeficiency syndrome. It is, however, an issue with patients with IBS or chronic ulcers. There is no doubt that yeast overgrowth in the gut causes inflammation and disturbs the gut ability to absorb nutrients in THAT population, but if you are an otherwise healthy person, you probably don’t have yeast overgrowth. So that’s why I didn’t go out of my way to buy an “anti-fungal” (Enzymes).
Reference:
Singh, R., M.D., & Mullin, G. E., M.D. (2017). A wasting syndrome and malnutrition caused by small intestine fungal overgrowth: Case report and review of the literature. Integrative Medicine, 16(3), 48-51. Retrieved from https://search-proquest-com.liblink.uncw.edu/docview/1913309124?accountid=14606
4. Can you share more information on how a laxative oxygenates the body? Please link scientific research! This is something I was unaware that it did.
5. I mentioned that Slim makes claims of blood sugar regularity related to the Chromium in it. In the research I found, Chromium MAY help with blood sugar regularity, but clinical trials haven’t shown any significance to it actually doing that.
6. As far as a drink “detoxing” you I’ll give you this quote by Edzard Ernst, emeritus professor of complementary medicine at Exeter University, “There are two types of detox: one is respectable and the other isn’t. The respectable one, is the medical treatment of people with life-threatening drug addictions. The other is the word being hijacked by entrepreneurs, quacks and charlatans to sell a bogus treatment that allegedly detoxifies your body of toxins you’re supposed to have accumulated. If toxins did build up in a way your body couldn’t excrete, you’d likely be dead or in need of serious medical intervention. The healthy body has kidneys, a liver, skin, even lungs that are detoxifying as we speak. There is no known way – certainly not through detox treatments – to make something that works perfectly well in a healthy body work better.”
I find your negativity on this post almost comical, because the reason why you are the first negative comment here is not because I am AFRAID, but because I genuinely have never had a negative comment on this post! I’ve received only warm, positive comments, emails, and messages thanking me for this information and how it has helped them. If you read through the comments you will find moms, seniors, etc. who want to make positive changes, but even with the “ambassador discount”– cannot afford Plexus. There is a reason why I get so many views on this post every day, and it is because people cannot afford Plexus.
AND also, I’m assuming you are an ambassador, so aren’t you doing the same thing I am? Making claims about a product and attempting/successfully making a profit? But that’s not important. Being an Amazon Affiliate is a common practice in the blogging community and it helps to support my side project of blogging. I love blogging and sharing my life with people, and making a very small commission helps keep that dream alive.
Thanks for reading!
P.S. Any more negative comments from you will not be approved– I just wanted to answer your questions. Have a good day!
Hey there,
I noticed you didn’t list garcinia Cambogia as a Pink Drinm ingredient. The last times I bought it 3 yrs ago, it was an ingredient. Did they remove it?…it is the main reason it helps you lose weight.
Let me know if you have an alternative to this that’s cheaper, yet reliable.
Thank you!
You’re amazing! I’m going to try this as an alternative to Plexus. I’ve been on it for 5 months. It’s too much money. I have fibromyalgia and PCOS and I need help! Lol
What is the antifungal in it? Grape seed extract?
I was told by a plexus ambassador that the magnesium bonds with vitamin c and bioflavonoids and that forms magnesium abscorbate..
.What is BioCleanse?It’s aspecially formulated product that contains a Magnesium Oxide compound with Oxygen Enhancement and Vitamin Cwith Bioflavonoids.It helps to:Oxygenates the entire bodyDetoxify and cleansethe gastro-intestinal tract and arteriesEnergizeboth physically and mentallyNeutralizeacidic conditions that may promote pathogensEnhanceweight lossSupportcollagen productionRelieveconstipationHow does BioCleanse help you?It helps to:Oxygenates the entire bodyDetoxify and cleansethe gastro-intestinal tract and arteriesfrom wastesEnergizeboth physically and mentallyNeutralizeacidic conditions that may promote pathogensEnhanceweight lossSupportcollagen productionRelieveconstipationWhy do you need BioCleanse?Many people are in a low oxygen/toxic state. This is caused by poor diet, stress, low activity levels,polluted air andshallow breathing. The body cannot keep up its metabolism in this state, and begins to gather waste products morerapidly than it can eliminate them. Viruses, bacteria, fungi and other pathogenic microbes thrive in this condition, andcan lead to diseases such as flu, Candida, chronic fatigue, etc. Plexus Bio-Cleanse can increase the oxygen levelsaround these microbes, causing them to die due to their high-oxygen environment.How does BioCleanse work?As the material reaches the stomach’s acid environment and continues into the bloodstream, the vitamin C (AscorbicAcid) and bioflavonoid complex break the magnesium peroxide bond releasing the ozone and peroxides, softening theintestinal and arterial plaque, and killing pathogenic microbes throughout the body The ozone and peroxides furtherbreakdown into oxygen which continues to purify and energize all cells in the body. As the liquefied plaques and deadpathogens move toward leaving the body, the magnesium creates a colon flushing reaction, increasing bowel activityand preventing re-absorption of the toxins.How is Plexus Bio-Cleanse made?Through our advanced proprietary process, ozone, peroxides and magnesium aremerged and bonded into a crystal lattice matrix (similar to air bubbles trapped in ice). Vitamin C and a whole-fruitbioflavonoid complex are added to help break the bond and provide a more sustained release thus creating optimalassimilation.Most people’s primary nutritional focus is on foods and liquids, but the nutrient given the highest priorityby the body isoxygen.The lack of oxygen will kill a human in a matter of minutes. Oxygen is essential to the life sustaining process offull oxidationOxygen is theoptimum burning of fuel (food)In the past twenty yearsthere have been over 5,000 articles available in medical journals confirming the action ofoxygen products on pathogens. Numerous human conditions have been addressed by the use of ozone and oxygenenhancingcompounds. A few of these include:Excess weightCandidaArthritisEpstein-BarrIn the case of obesity, the primary cause of the excess weight is inadequate oxidation of food, leaving it to be stored inlipid form for later use. The added weight compresses the body cells further, restricting their oxygen supply andintensifying their sensation of undernourishment, to which the usual response is greater food consumption. A higheroxygen level allows the body to oxidize its fuel more electively, including fuel that was stored away as lipids. Moreefficiently oxidation provides greater energy nourishment, eliminating inaccurate hunger signals and allowing the body’sweight to normalize.Now, because of an innovative breakthrough in activated oxygen technology, people will be able to benefit from usingsupplemental sources of oxygen in addition to the air that they breathe.Through Plexus’s proprietary process, magnesium, peroxides, super-oxides and ozonides are merged into a crystal latticematrix (similar to air bubbles trapped in ice). This formula is enhanced by the addition of a pro-oxidant vitamin C/bioflavonoidcomplex providing more sustained release function creating optimal assimilation. When orally ingested, thisstabilized bonding process is broken on contact with stomach acids releasing large amounts of activated oxygen. Asthese poly atomic gases are simultaneously dispersed, several events occur:The ozonides assisted by the oxidant break into oxygen (02) and singlet oxygen (01).oThis creates hydrogen peroxide inthe stomach which is carried into the intestinal tract with the stomach chyme, softening the impacted fecal matter on the intestinal wall, softening arterial plaque, and killing pathogenic microbes throughout the body.Molecular oxygen is introduced into the bloodstream where oxygenation continues to purify and energize all the cells.oThe nascent oxygen is also available as a free radical scavenger. Without the free radical oxygen (01),counterproductive free radicals cannot be effectively eliminated. The nascent oxygen combines with the toxic-free radicals. These destructive molecules accumulate due to the absence of the healthy free radical oxygen.. (Thisimbalance has hindered the whole oxidative cycle of our aerobic bodies.)As the liquefied plaques and dead pathogens move toward leaving the body, the magnesium creates a colon flushingreaction in the bowels to prevent re-absorption of the toxins.The high amount of oxygen/ozonides/peroxides released can be measured with peroxide test strips and moresophisticated potassium iodide testing.When viruses or bacteria invade a cell and begin to replicate, all new cells are compromised; they are not perfect likethe parent cells. Their cell membranes (a lipid “envelope” of protection) are structurally weakened. When ozone isintroduced into the body at specific concentrations, any cell that comes into contact with the ozone is affected. Theozone breaks down into activated oxygen and water in the bloodstream and oxidizes almost everything in its path.Activated oxygen’s are only attracted to weak cells because of their electric and chemical make-up and, therefore,attach only to the ones with pathogenic microbes inside them.Ozone effectively oxidizes the damaged cell membrane. This releases the virus and/or bacteria into the bloodstream(now a highly oxygenated environment) where it cannot survive and where it is oxidized (metabolized).The Plexus formula ofmagnesium, vitamin C and bioflavonoids also add to nutritional balance. Many people are deficient inmagnesium, vitamin C and bioflavonoids. Magnesium takes part in the duplication of RNA and DNA. It activates manyof the enzymes that speed up chemical reactions that occur in the body (including catalase used in the dis-mutationprocess of oxidation
That’s what she sent me. Can u like explain to me how I can take vitamin c bioflavonoids and magnesium and get this same affect. Does biocleanse have a special ingredient that makes it oxygenating?? Only reason I’m asking is cuz she’s got my dad hooked on this stuff and I think it’s crazy. He’s so bloated it’s unreal but she keeps telling him it’s die off or detox. He takes 4-6 biocleanse a day to go to bathroom
Wow! That seems like a lot of biocleanse! I would really encourage him to go speak to a doctor to make sure that there’s not something else going on and to make sure his doctor is ok with him taking that much every day.
Oh and PS. I only created an Amazon Affiliate account a few months ago. I originally published this post simply to share my experience and to give information for people looking for alternatives like I was. When the post took off, I decided to make a commission. I stand by it. Have a good night!
Yes, Michael! Totally agree here! Plexus has done amazing things for my family and wouldn’t dare trade that peace of mind for anything!
After taking Plexus Biocleanse and probiotic for a few months, I have seen a difference in ‘movements’ but no change in weight. We eat clean 90% of the time, so I assumed the belly bloat would drop significantly. I haven’t seen this happening so tonight I hit the web to look for alternatives. THANK YOU for all this research! Especially on magnesium. I’ll be trying your regimen when my bottles run out.
This is a valued article & I appreciate all your time!!
Plexus may be what it says. No one has said it doesn’t work. It’s too expensive. As an ambassador, I couldn’t promote financial burden on anyone. It made me sick to even think , that people couldn’t afford health. I wish there was a way my insurance could pay for it.
Oh my… to your most recent comment, lol. Thank you for posting this. I have been wanting to try Plexus for awhile now, but there is no way I could ever afford it. From my own research I was thinking it works and I was going to do exactly what you did – figure out how to replicate it. Then it dawned on me that somewhere, someone on the internet has already done the work for me. So, thank you 🙂 If Plexus is actually valid, it is not some magic secret, it just is science, and therefore can be replicated.
LOL agreed. I knew a negative comment would find its way here eventually– it’s whatever!
Thank you for getting it, Sherbet! I hope the alternatives help you out 🙂 Let me know how it goes for you!
Thanks so much for your post! I did sign up as an ambassador for Plexus, but aside from the cost, I am not someone that is comfortable with marketing on Facebook and other social media sites. I have honestly almost quit using FB due to the hundreds of products that my “friends” are trying to get me to sign up for. While I understand it is a business, I feel like some of my friendships have actually been hijacked and only revolve around the products I did or did not try. I have a hard time trusting when a product is good for me “really” and my friends running a business and lining their wallet. I want to be supportive of those friends, but at the same time, many people selling these supplements do not have medical degrees of any kind, yet promise a solution to almost ALL medical issues – in fact, if I listened to my Plexus friends, doctors will likely be out of business within the next few years LOL! I am going to give your suggestions a try, because I do find validity in helping out my body, especially during times of stress….which I seem to have more of than not! Thanks for taking the time to explain this information in understandable terms and just pointing out the ingredients that are proven as most significant for health. Good luck in your nursing career and further education! 🙂
Thank you for your comment, Sue!
I agree that the amount of MLMs on FB and social media is exhausting. Constantly being advertised to and trying to be sold something has made me pull back from using Facebook as well.
LOL so true too that some of the claims people make about their respective MLM products can seem a BIT outlandish sometimes! I’m so glad you enjoyed my post though, thanks for taking the time to read it. 🙂
Hi! Thanks for all the great info, very informative. I want to start taking some of these supplements as Plexus is way out of my budget. But, one thing that stood out to me about an ambassador I know, is that she said it helps fight cravings for junk food, resulting in her eating better. You may have mentioned it and I missed it, but do you think the supplements you mentioned would help with that as well? I know some of that is something you may have to combat on your own, but an extra boost in that area is not unwelcome! 🙂
Hey Emily! I hope these alternatives work for you!
I think it hypothetically could help with cravings because of the prebiotic. It’s basically like special fiber to help keep you full for longer. I don’t really it notice it helping me with cravings too much, but I’ve also never really thought about it! Lol
Hi, just wanted to chime in with some anecdotal evidence… not a medical professional… but magnesium REALLY helps me curb my cravings. I’m not sure how/why, but I’ve repeatedly tested the theory in my own life and for some reason, it makes a huge difference. 🙂 I use Natural Vitality Natural Calm gummy magnesium supplements.
Thank you so much for this information, Sara Ann. I really appreciate the time and attention you paid to finding alternate products for those of us who are using Plexus but would like to find something less expensive. Can’t wait to check these out!
You’re welcome, Lindsay! Thank you for your sweet comment!
Hi there,
So I have been trying plexus slim for about 2-3 weeks but its very god damn expensive. And I like how you have listed and explained the ingredients while providing alternatives to them, which I really really appreciate. I would really like to know if you have heard back from people who have used the supplements you listed. I only ask this because like most people I am apprehensive if this doesn’t work. And knowing that other people have seen similar results would be very satisfying and give me a little more confidence.
Thank you again for doing this 🙂
No one has told me whether or not they have lost weight with my alternative– just that they appreciated that they now have an alternative. I personally lost weight– but you can also look at the Amazon reviews of the individual supplements. Especially for the prebiotic, there were a couple people who mentioned that they lost weight.
Hope that answers your question!
Thank you for sharing. I have signed up as an ambassador in January. It has been soooo expensive. I turned off my automatic shipment this week as it is simply not affordable. I reckon that it is much cheaper to do your own research and buy the alternatives. Thank you for taking the time and effort. I needed to see this as this helps me in making a final decision not to proceed on the Plexus path.
It is outrageously expensive! Thank you for taking the time to read, Melissa. Let me know how they work for you!
Great informative post! I haven’t done Plexus because of the high cost, but as so many have said, I’ve seen the before/after pictures and been interested. I just ordered from your links and look forward to trying them out! My health has taken a backseat while I completed my doctorate, but now that I’m done I look forward to getting healthy again!
Hey Leah,
Thanks so much for commenting! And congrats on completing your doctorate!! That is amazing!!! Hope these alternatives work out for you 🙂
Like so many others, I thank you for this post. I’ve been on the fence about Plexus for sometime. I’m looking to improve my gut health and trust the research on the importance of doing so, but am relieved to find well researched alternatives that cost significantly less than $100+/month.
Hey Jenny,
So glad you found the post helpful! Let me know if you try out the alternatives and how they work out for you! 🙂 Thanks for commenting!
Love the alternatives to Plexus-thanks for your research! I’m wondering if you could find an alternative to Plexus Vitalbiome? I’ve been using that but would like to find an inexpensive comparable version. Also the 365 Probiotics are sold out-would you suggest a different brand? Thanks again as I was on the fence of joining Plexus but will definitely try this first!
Hey Sara!
I’ll keep on looking and investigating on probiotics. Maybe I’ll try some other ones, would that be a blog post that you think you would be interested in seeing? It’s a common question I get since I published this post, because the 365 probiotics keep selling out! You can get them at Whole Foods if you have one close by.
I really like the Culturelle probiotics. A lot of the internal medicine doctors I used to work with really liked that brand too. As far as trying to find one an alternative to the Vitalbiome–I will keep looking–but the only other one I can find with similar strains is this one from Renew Life: https://amzn.to/2CUAAOA. Unfortunately, it’s over $30 to start, so you might not be saving that much from the Plexus. But I’ll keep looking!! 🙂
Thanks so much for responding! I ordered what you suggested and will get a Cullterelle probiotic. I think a probiotic post would be great! I’m also open to any other suggestions you have for anxiety supplements. Thanks again for this post. I will let you know if I have more energy after trying out the Plexus alternatives:)
Hey Sara! Just wanted to let you know that I just created a post about herbs and supplements for anxiety. Hope this helps! http://theregularfolks.com/scientifically-proven-herbs-supplements-for-anxiety/
Hi Sara,
my friend has replaced Vitalbiome with “Mood+” from Garden of Life and is happy with it….and at only around $14 might be worth the try 😉 hope it helps
Thanks Ellie! I’m open to trying that🙂 Do you know where she found Mood+ for $14? It looks like on Amazon it’s $32. Thanks!
I already take 400 mg of Magnesium, a day for my Dysautotomia. I am planning Plexus Block and Plexus Metaburn. I’m planning on following WW Freestyle.
I love your research and will definitely will try the supplements you recommended (except magnesium).
Do you think it would be a problem using Block, Metaburn and the rx magnesium I am taking?
So glad I researched alternatives to MLM plans!
Thank You!
Hey Darleen,
I’m so glad you found this blog post helpful! I think that starting to follow WW along with these supplements is an AMAZING idea. My parents started WW 2.5 years ago (they still stick with it) and my mom lost 25 pounds in about 6 months and my dad lost 50 pounds. They are so much more active now and feel (and look) amazing!
To be completely honest, I do not know much about plexus block and plexus MetaBurn. I briefly looked them up on the Plexus website when I read your comment, and to be honest, I haven’t heard of most of the herbs involved in those 2 products, so it is hard for me to make a judgement.
My safest advice would be to talk to your doctor about it. Especially since it sounds like you have a medical condition involved, you might want to ask your personal doctor about those supplements you are interested in taking– they may determine that there is a particular herb that could negatively affect your condition more.
Or just try the alternatives I listed in this post, magnesium, and WW Freestyle. Having a healthy diet and great gut health may be enough that you don’t even need Metaburn and Block in your life 🙂
Thank you for taking the time to comment!
My products came in from Amazon. After seeing that 365 Daily Probotic was not available on Amazon or my Whole Foods, I read reviews and compared products and found what I thought was comparable. Earth’s Pearl Probiotic + Prebiotic. The ingredients was the most like 365.
We were talking about Plexus today at work. One of my coworkers uses it and I have wanted to try it, but goodness the price!! Once I get back from my work conference I’m going to get the supplements you have suggested and give them a try. Much cheaper than Plexus and hopefully it works! Thank you for the research, you have made things easy to follow and now I can reap the benefits (lol). I will let you know if it really does work for me.
Hey Jennifer! Thanks for your comment 🙂 Looking forward to hearing how it works for you!
Hi. Enjoying your blog so much. I believe that a person is their own advocate of their body and should listen to what it says. I like you took the initiative to find a cheaper way. Most Americans are hard working people. I for one like to save where I can. I will try your regime and hope it shows the same numbets for my health exams 4 x a year. I am diabetic type 2 insulin dependent. I was wondering can you find or research products and compare them to Plexus Nerve,Plexus Ease, Plexus X Factor, Plexus Vitabiome, and Plexus Mega X. I use the nerve and ease for neuropathy. Be interested in hearing back from you.
Hey Nellie! I will definitely start looking into some alternatives and work on another blog post 🙂 I’ll keep you updated!
Hi Sara. Just wondering if you have found some alternatives mainly for the Nerve and ease for my neuropathy?
What time do you take the magensuim and quercetin? Thanks!
Both at night time! Before I go to bed.
Plexus did NOT work for me, and I am grateful that, after showing proof to Plexus (my blood work pre and post Plexus), they refunded all of my money. Their promises did not work on me, $$$ later!! Grateful for your information. I am all ready to continue with these suggestions, not expecting to be off my bioidentical hormones but to SUPPLEMENT them!
Love this idea, Kerry! 🙂
Fantastic post – thank you so much for sharing this!!! I bit the bullet and bought Plexus this month through an ambassador friend, just to try it. I’ve been thinking, “Uh-oh, what if this actually works – am I really going to pay for this EVERY MONTH?” Which is what led me to your blog. 🙂 Your research makes a lot of sense. I’ll finish out this month’s supply of Plexus and then I think I’ll give your alternatives a try!
So excited to hear this, Rachel! Hope to hear how you like the alternatives in comparison to Plexus!
Hi, thanks so much for this! I noticed that there is alpha lipoic acid in the slim drink which supposedly helps with weight loss. Would you recommend taking that as a supplement too?
Hey Karen! Sorry I took a while to respond. I wanted to do a little bit of research before I replied. Thanks for pointing it out. I didn’t even notice that on the ingredient list!
From the research I did, it appears that alpha‐lipoic acid treatment shows small, yet significant short‐term weight loss compared with placebo in obese individuals. From the study I looked it, the effect of ALA on body weight is limited to the SHORT TERM, and not necessarily for long term because your body will begin to compensate. So *maybe* it might be worth trying for 2-3 months, but I wouldn’t waste your money taking it everyday until the end of time. Hopefully that answers your question!
Here’s one that I found on Amazon. It is 600 mg per capsule. I would take 2-3 capsules per day based off of the study I read.
https://amzn.to/2XTL1Ky
Reference:
Kucukgoncu, S., Zhou, E., Lucas, K., & Tek, C. (2017). Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) as a supplementation for weight loss: Results from a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Obesity Reviews, 18(5), 594-601. doi:10.1111/obr.12528
Awesome, thanks so much!
Hi, I am so impressed by your research. I am a Plexus ambassador and my 3rd year is almost up. Truthfully the only reason I am still using the products is the effects of the probiotic. I am a little nervous about discontinuing Plexus since it has truly helped with chronic constipation, but the cost is crazy. I have been looking for alternatives, and I am going to give your recommendations a try. Thank you for the info!
Thanks for commenting MaryJo! I’m currently working on another post about some other probiotic alternatives, so keep your eyes peeled! Which Plexus probiotic are you using?
If you have to refrigerate the probiotic how does it survive the temperature of the body?
Hey Karen! The difference between freeze dried and refrigerated probiotics is just the method of storage and keeping the bacteria in dormancy until it reaches the gut where it can be in an environment to grow (which is why taking a prebiotic is important— it gives the good bacteria food to grow once it gets to the gut!)
You have to remember that there are plenty of foods with natural probiotics (ex. Sauerkraut, kombucha, yogurt) which all have to be refrigerated! It’s essentially the same idea with a refrigerated probiotic 🙂
https://www.enviromedica.com/learn/do-probiotics-need-to-be-refrigerated/ (this article references some good scientific research that may be helpful!)
Thank you for this post!! I’m so glad I found it! Question if you recommend any other Quercetin Bioflavinoid Complex? I can’t seem to find one w the same ingredients/levels and this one they have jacked up the price on Amazon and it’s sold out on a lot of other websites. Thank you!!
I have purchased all of your products suggested except the probiotic as it is not available. I will start today and i am so excited for this! I do have a probiotic i am currently taking that i eill use for now. The only question i have is the probiotic you suggest does not have digestive enzymes which i think are important. Do you have any recommendations of a probiotic that is more similar to plexus Probio? I can not find one that i love like the probio. Thank you! Thank you!
Hey Danielle! Sorry the probiotic is still sold out 🙁 A lot of people have been having issues with that. I’m currently in the process of trying out some different probiotics to eventually make a post about it (but it will unfortunately take me a bit since I want to give each one a fair chance). If you really want to take digestive enzymes too, what I would suggest is if you were able to get your hands on the probiotic (whether it be on Amazon or at Whole Foods) then to also get some digestive enzymes separately. Unfortunately I haven’t tried any enzymes or probiotics with enzymes so I can’t personally recommend any, but this one looks promising!: https://amzn.to/2DHZ0eM
This info is so informative! I have a contact on Facebook have been talking about joining i just cant spend $178 on there products! They also claim to help with anxiety and i have been having those and hot flashes lately how fun it is being in pre menopause. Will this help me with these issues as well? Also anything you can recommend for energy im dragging to get through the day!
Hard to say! I wasn’t personally dealing with anxiety while I was taking these, so I can’t speak to that. I did make a post a couple weeks ago on supplements for anxiety if you’re interested! http://theregularfolks.com/scientifically-proven-herbs-supplements-for-anxiety/
As far as energy, take a look at your diet. Is it high in sugar, artificial sweeteners, and starch? I cut out added sugar for a month and it made me feel great (plus I lost some weight), so you can always start there! (http://theregularfolks.com/21-day-added-sugar-fast-week-3/)
Gluten and dairy are also some common culprits, and limiting those and eating more fiber rich veggies will likely help 🙂
I was very pleased to uncover this site. I need to to thank you for ones time for this particularly fantastic read!! I definitely loved every little bit of it and i also have you bookmarked to see new information in your blog.
So excited to see this! I also took Plexus for a year and had great results but cost was killing me! Been looking for alternatives so I’m anxious to try your suggestions and see how it goes!
Hi, I read your new stuff daily. Your writing style is witty,
keep doing what you’re doing!
Nice post! Thank you.
I love your blog.. very nice colors & theme. Did you make this website yourself or did
you hire someone to do it for you? Plz respond as I’m looking to
design my own blog and would like to know where u got this
from. many thanks
The theme for my blog is linked at the very bottom of the page– it was designed by Restored 316 🙂
Thank you!!!!!
I so want to do plexus. I currently am trying out the Slim, and I do like the energizing effects and how it has made me adverse to overly sweet foods that probably use corn syrup. That said – what’s out there that doesn’t cost ~120 WHOLESALE (I think!) and is legit??? This, I imagine!!
Looking forward to the follow up post!
Hey Laura! 120 is wild, right?! Probably a bit too out of reach for the regular person :/ Luckily, it’s all pretty easy to replicate!
Sara Ana, I have been taking the Plexus four months now, the price is 😳 for me but I needed help. I do have more energy, my memory is better , sleeping better (that was my biggest issue) and crazy thing I had a awful fungus on my big toe for years, 5 at least and it went away.
While I didn’t read all the post I am going to try your suggestions. I am not good at research and don’t understand a lot of this but do no when I feel the benefits. You mentioned a Amazon site? I didn’t understand that could you direct me. Thanks.
Hey Violet,
If you just scroll to the end of the post, you should be able to click the links to all of the products I use and they will take you to Amazon where you can purchase them. Hope that helps! 🙂
Amazing research. Getting ready to order now. I have been seeing a lot of my FB friends selling Plexus but being a single mom, it’s just not in my budget. Your article was the first to come up when I started looking for alternatives and I was thrilled. Thanks for sharing your research.
Hey Kim! Thanks for commenting! I’m happy to share 🙂 Let me know how they work for you if you happen to try them out!
Hi all! I am curious whether previous commenters that were Plexus users have seen similar results with this product combination. I’m in the same boat as many others, feeling better with Plexus but not sure I can continue to justify the cost!
Is there a specific culturelle product your recommend that is comparable to the 365 probiotic?
Thanks for your research!
Hey Amanda! Sorry for my delayed response. I had just used the basic culturelle back when it was new on the market, but to be honest, it has been years since I have personally used their products.
I’m currently working on a post to review multiple probiotics that are comparable to the plexus probiotic. In the meantime, I just updated the post with 3 different probiotics that have similar ingredients. I’m currently using the garden of life one and liking it so far!
I started Plexus but honestly, $$ is a big thing in our house with 4 kids one of the staring college in the fall. I am starting the supplements today, 285.9lbs and also will start exercising, will check back and let you know how it works in about a month
Thanks for your research,
Iris .
I so look forward to hearing about your journey, Iris!!! I need a health kick, too, and I’d like to know if this mix is truly as effective as the triplex.
Thanks for commenting Iris! Looking forward to hearing what you think!
Thank you for this!! I have tried Plexus for about 3 months & enjoy it but it is way over my budget that I had cancel my orders. Do you have another alternative to the 365 Everyday Value Daily Probiotic since the link goes to where it is no longer available?
Hey Gilda! I’m currently working on a post to review multiple probiotics that are comparable to the plexus probiotic. In the meantime, I just updated the post with 3 different probiotics that have similar ingredients. I’m currently using the garden of life one and liking it so far!
Anyone have any other suggestions for something like Plexus Vitalbiome? I tried the “Mood” Garden of Life probiotic but it made me feel jittery (possibly bc of the ashwaganda?).
Hey Sara! I’m still trying out multiple probiotics and doing more research, but I recently started trying the Garden of Life Primal Defense Probiotic and I really like it! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004EBZRPO/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&th=1&linkCode=ll1&tag=theregularf00-20&linkId=827514c926d5a59c014f04a809940f44&language=en_US
Thanks! I guess I’m more specifically looking for a probiotic that helps combat stress (like Plexus Vitalbiome claims to). Do you think the Garden of Life probiotic would do that? I was really hoping I would like the stress ashwaganda one but it definitely made me jittery and gave me headaches 🙁
Ohhhh I gotcha! It could be the ashwaganda. I wrote a post on supplements/herbs for anxiety (I think it’s the top one on the health tab) and a lot of them are helpful for stress too. so maybe you could try one of those along with a probiotic. Maybe cava cava or lavender oil would be beneficial?
i used plexus for 6 months it was great but i just could not keep playing the money. i have looked for other way to get the same or close to results and found nothing. Thank you for taking the time to do full research and trying it out your self. My biggest plus with plexus it my a1c went down 2 points while i was using it and my blood sugars were under such great control i was using less insulin and still loosing weight. going to try what you saif here however i already take a very strong probiotic so i will stick with that for now. it helps alot. again thank you. look forward to your updates.
Thanks for the research. Wish I would have thought to google an alternative to Plexus before my purcha$e this month! I will finish out what I have and get the products you suggested. I really can’t afford to continue the Plexus Triplex. (although, the JOYome is fantastic!) 🙂
I’m a gastric bypass patient who is 3.5 years out, and sadly, the scale has climbed 10#. I’m trying to nip this in the bud! Once I try your regime, I will definitely come back here to post my testimony.
Hi again! I tried this and unfortunately it didn’t work as well for me as the Plexus, however I find it encouraging to know that there are other options out there and that maybe I just need to try another brand or dose. I appreciate your research on this! If I find the right combination I will share what works for me.
Hey Amanda! I’m sorry it didn’t work quite as well for you! Out of curiosity, what about it didn’t work as well?
Thank you for sharing your experience!!!
Thank you for your work here. I used your research as a base from which to expand what I knew about these products and others. You gave me a great start and saved me a ton of time. I now have a working document tailor-made for me as I work toward better health.
Hi there! I loved reading your alternatives! I am a mama to two littles and have not been able to loose the weight and have had a GI issues since my C-sections. I was wondering if you ever tried the green coffee bean extract in combo with what your taking and the optionals? Looking to help support my diet and exercise efforts since I have not been able to loose any weight despite everything I’m currently doing.
Hey Samantha! Sorry it took me so long to respond. I have never tried green coffee bean extract. I get really nervous about anything that markets itself as fat burning because of that issue that a lot of people were having with fat burners and subsequently having liver damage! Keep exercising (that’s so great! It’d hard to workout with kiddos!), and keep eating healthy– the cleaner the better!
P.S. What workouts are you trying? I’ve been doing BBG/Sweat App, and it’s amazing!
My friend sells it but I don’t have the$ to spend on it so I did the same thing. I read the ingredients, looked at studies and healthy doses, then made my own. I have digestive issues and end up on homemade semi “gut rest” not to mention I’m caffeine sensitive. I do 1-2 meal replacement shake(s), pro/prebiotics, multivitamin, omegas and DHA, plus biotin because not eating solids, especially a complete meal my hair and nails need the boost. I’ve had great results and I obviously lose weight when on any liquid diet. Keeping it off is a little harder once I’m able to eat again but that’s not surprising.
My biggest concerns about Plexus are the high magnesium doses, caffeine and not enough calorie or carbs to be a good meal replacement. It by no means provides enough Cal or carbs to support an active or even barely active lifestyle and is essentially a high powered laxative with some ok stuff, enough B vitamins to cause actual harm, and so much caffeine I don’t know how anyone sleeps on the stuff.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who went looking for a more affordable and safer alternative to their products.
I completely agree Mere! I was so shocked to see so much magnesium in BioCleanse and was shocked that:
a. people take it every day
b. no one really speaks up about how much is in it!
It’s like taking a laxative every day, which causes electrolyte imbalances. People with eating disorders often abuse laxatives and when they do it, it’s an eating disorder, but when Plexus does it, it’s gut health? I just don’t buy that. Having low doses is definitely beneficial, but it makes me cringe at the idea of taking that much daily.
Thank you for researching all this information! I have tried Plexus and did seem to help me, but just can not spend that much every month on their products. I am so excited to try the Alternatives!!!
I’m so glad you’re going to try them Joan!
Thank you so much for doing this! I took Plexus for about a year, and I did notice a difference, but I had to stop for financial reasons. I have been looking for safe and effective alternatives for a while now and have not found anything beneficial. I was so excited to come upon your page and I love the suggestions that you made! Thank you for making gut health affordable! I truly an so grateful! Can’t wait to get started!
I’m so happy to hear that Lorie! I hope the alternatives work well for you!
Hi Sara,
Thank you for your post. I do have a question. I am currently taking the Plexus Triplex and have been searching for alternatives due to cost. I am wondering if you would suggest slowly weaning off the products or ordering these and switching over immediately?
Thank you.
Hey Olivia,
I take less magnesium than what is in biocleanse because the amount in Plexus is like taking a laxative daily which is excessive.
What a great post! I take plexus and have never seen a more researched approach to alternatives. I’m a follower now
Thank you so much Leslie!
I greatly appreciate this information! Have you looked into alternatives for any other Plexus products, such as XFactor (or XFactor Plus), MegaX, or Balance? Just curious!
Research is important, your research seems sincere, and honestly done. Thank you for the information. Just a side note to broaden the scope of research a bit, Magnesium is absorbed better in some forms than others. Magnesium oxide is considered a laxative, and the most popular form. Magnesium aspartate and magnesium chloride absorb better into the body and are not laxatives. I’m not sure which type Plexus contains. Lastly, there are very few articles actually published in Journals on herbs and mineral supplements. It is difficult for companies to patent them and generate income from them, so they don’t research them, or publish articles on them. Again, thank your for your research and information. Well done, and much appreciated.
That’s a great point, Shane! Thank you for coming to share your thoughts! Plexus bio cleanse uses magnesium hydroxide.
Wow, what great information! I’ve had constipation issues for years and am going to try this remedy. I haven’t pulled the trigger on buying Plexus because it’s an MLM for one, and for two, that money spending!
You responded to your one negative commentor (man, those people are everywhere) with such class, grace & research. I’m now a follower! 🙂
You made my day, Beth! Thanks for commenting. Let me know how it works for you ❤️
Thank you so much for this post! About to get all these products and see how it goes. I’m a little indecisive on the Magnésium. There are so many forms and such varied opinions on dosage. I’m very irregular ( about every 3 days bm) I have hypothyroidism so It could possibly be attributed to that. I keep trading that Magnesium citrate might be best for me and possibly 400 mg at least until i get regular. Any thoughts, opinions or research done on that? ,
I should have mentioned, I currently take 400 mg of Magnesium hydroxide and a probiotic. Still, the lack of regularity. And curious if you have an update yet on your new recommendation for a probiotic….
Thanks for the awesome research!! I knew there had to he a cheaper way. Plus did you see Plexis is banned in other countries….kind of scary!! I did some of my own research and Plexus claims chitosanase is very important. Its supposed to get rid of the bad bugs. I came across a probiotic on amazon that is identical to Plexus’s probiotic. It’s called Floracor-GI. It seems to always be in stock.
Just came across your post! Are the supplements you are recommending okay to take while breastfeeding?
Check with your doctor but I researched that magnesium, a probiotic, and a prebiotic should all be fine in breastfeeding, but I’m a little uncertain about quecertin. You should talk to your doctor about it regardless! <3 🙂
I know I’m late to the game on this one but I have been wanting to try plexus for some gut and autoimmune issues and am excited to try your ideas! One question: I agree that an every day laxative in high quantities doesn’t seem healthy. Do you think doing twice a day on the magnesium for one or two weeks to get “cleansed” so to speak, and then cutting it out might be a good alternative? Have you noticed long term results from the magnesium specifically, or do you think it could be optional after using it as a “jumpstart”
Hello! Thank you for this post! I actually read this in July, (it’s Dec. now) and have been using the pre and pro biotic as well as the 250 Mg once a day religiously 🙂 It did not help me loose weight, maybe 1-2 lbs at first, but I have had an easier time maintaining. I was also able to lower my LDL cholesterol by 10-20 in three months!! Which is huge for me b/c high cholesterol runs in my family, and I didn’t want to go on a statin if I didn’t have to. I also take a prenatal iron 27mg and women’s multivitamin. I have WAY more energy with this regime! I have heard how great Plexus was, but just couldn’t afford it. I did splurge on their product EASE and I must say, it helps SO much! I’m curious if you would do a review and alternative for this product too! Thanks so much!
Thanks for sharing your results! I’ve been doing the probiotic, magnesium and Q supplement for about a month now and i did decide to buy the pink drink from Plexus for the prebiotics and green coffee extract to see how it was. I wanted to stick with it for At least 2 months and see if it makes any difference with my reflux, allergies and energy levels. I have lost a couple pounds in the past month but it’s hard to know if my energy levels would have increased because i just became pregnant. Pregnancy fatigue is unreal. Either way though, I’m sure it will be good for my body to have the extra gut health support!
Do you know what vitamin I could replace Plexus XFactor Plus with? I really like XFactor Plus but I can no longer afford it. I appreciate any advice you can give me. I am going to start using the products you suggested to replace my Plexus routine. Thank you!
Sorry I am just now responding to this! I’m not super familiar with XFactor Plus but it looks like a regular multivitamin with some extra stuff (like aloe vera) thrown in. It would be hard to find a vitamin that is a 100% match to this since it contains so many different things. I would look at a women’s multivitamin (I use a prenatal because I need the extra biotin and iron) and just compare labels to see what the plexus one has versus the multivitamin, and see what the plexus has that your multivitamin does not. Then do some research on the NIH Department of Dietary Supplements website ( https://ods.od.nih.gov/ ) to see what the scientifically efficacy is of each of those extra things. For example: do you really need the chromium in the XFactor plus? You might not if you’re not a diabetic. You might not in general. Figure out which of those extra minerals might actually be helpful for YOU and you could take a regular multivitamin + a supplement that contains those extra minerals. But PLEASE talk to your doctor before you start anything.
Thanks for sharing this very good piece of information. Very interesting points too!
I appreciate that there’s an article out there about this.
First off, i too always sort’ve roll my eyes at MLM products. Who truly buys into the hype of them without feeling a little hesitant?
I also agree that there is no “cure all” or magic pill that can fix all of your problems.
I do think, based on my limited research of Plexus the past few days, that they are on track with what they are trying to do. But the way they do it seems off, if that makes sense.
First of all, it IS INSANELY expensive, adding up to over $1600 dollars a year for the tri-plex. That’s CRAZY. Secondly, you CAN break down most ingredients and get them cheaper and in the amounts that are better. For one, most people these days need a LOT more vitamin C a day than this offers.
I WILL say though, that the magnesium supplement you recommended IS very different from the one in Plexus, Plexus uses hydroxide and yours listed above is oxide. Each kind of magnesium is very different! So that’s a huge factor in whether or not this will have the same results in my opinion. BUT, i think you’re on the right track, and with the change in type of magnesium i think i’m going to try your way first and see what happens. Things like Plexus may be tempting BUT i think there may be better ways to go about things.
Thanks!
What magnesium did you end up choosing?
Hey Emily! Thank you so much for commenting. Totally agree with you about the MLMs and the cost! It’s wild. You bring up a really good point about the magnesium that I actually meant to discuss and I think that I totally forgot to lol
My reasoning for choosing a different type of magnesium was that magnesium HYDRoxide is basically just milk of magnesia (a laxative). The recommended dosing for Phillips Milk of Magnesia (as a laxative) is ~2400 mg of magnesium hydroxide. Based on Plexus’ recommendations for taking BioCleanse (2 tablets, twice a day) you would be consuming 1,520 mg of magnesium hydroxide. I have an issue with Plexus calling what is almost Milk of Magnesia in pill form, a “cleanse”. Taking a laxative every day is NOT healthy; if someone does require a laxative every day, there is probably another issue at hand. And for a company trying to promote taking a laxative every day for “cleansing purposes” and weight loss, feels a bit like it is promoting disordered eating.
I know I sound like a broken record, but please talk to your doctor or NP before you start anything new. I hope this post at least gives you ideas to discuss with your health care provider.
According to the BioCleanse Nutrition Label, the recommendation is 2 pills before each meal per day UNLESS you are trying to loose weight as part of the Triplex weight loss regimen plan, then you take it twice a day before each meal. The two pills =One serving. It says very specifically that One serving (2 pills) = 380mg of Magnesium. Meaning, one pill does not equal 380mg. So at the most you are taking 760mg per day if you take 4pills and it warns clearly on the label not to go over 760mg. Just thought the I’d clarify. Informative article though. Thank you for being a health champions 🙏🏼😁
So happy I found this article. I’ve been a Plexus an ambassador and have found their products to be way too expensive each month. I had already found your alternative for the bio cleanse and have been using it for about a year now and it works just fine for me. Just as well as P. brand. I’ve been looking for other alternatives and plan to try some of recommendations. I love reading all the info on here and how this has helped others. Thank you for your time to research.
Hello.. I found this information interesting and informative as I have been researching Plexus. I have several friends who are using it and liking the results. The comments here if anything reinforce that plexus really does work but is expensive.
My conclusion as I’ve pretty much decided to give a plexus a try (and the coat is what held me back for so long) is that my health is more important than the cost! And frankly, I’m not a nurse and don’t have the time or energy to track down all the right products with the right ingredients when plexus already does that for me. Also… the price difference of the products listed pretty much adds up to not too much less than just going with plexus… especially if mil to ole shipping costs are involved.
If it is working for so many I think it’s worth a try. Cost or not!
Multiple shipping costs that should say 😉
I hope it works out for you! Unfortunately not everyone can afford Plexus, so I was simply providing my experience that I found to be alternatives . But if you can afford it, I hope you like plexus and i hope it works for you!!
I’m really glad there are cheaper options for some… I may try that route at some point! What I learned overall was that the concept of what Plexus is doing is a good one… their products probably more expensive than some alternatives… but you are seeking the alternatives along with others so I feel better about the plan being a good one whether it costs more or less! At this point i don’t want to try and figure out what is available alternatively if there is a program available to follow… but I was encouraged to know the idea was sound. I’ve read so many positives testimonials as well as negative comments that it’s hard to know what direction to go. I’m hoping the concept will have good results for me… with Plexus… for now … and maybe alternatives later because I really am a cheapskate!
I love this article…Have you found an alternative to the Plexus X- Factor Plus or Mega X ? I like these products but not the price tag. I am an ambassador but only to get the discounted price and now that they have raised some of the pricing that Is not even worth it. I have tried to find alternatives but have not been successful yet =)
I am not a plexus supporter but I would highly recommend you look into magnesium more. Magnesium does more than just cause laxative reactions. Magnesium is needed for over 200 enzyme processes in the cells. As far as competing with calcium yes it does compete with calcium for absorption but you need the magnesium to absorb the calcium so without the magnesium you can take calcium supplements all day and your bones won’t get extra calcium. In fact I’ve been taking magnesium without calcium for over 20 years and my doctor commented on how amazing my bone density is for a 40+ year old woman. The form of magnesium is very important. Glycinate and malate are some of the best forms. Look into Dr Carolyn Dean or Dr Thompson who has a book called the calcium lie. Even De Brownstein talks about the importance of magnesium.
Today was the day for me to do nothing else other than attempt, to figure out the cause of my stomach issues. After the death of my mother two years ago, shingles hit me hard in my right eye, face and scalp. It was most painful and was actually out of work for nine weeks. I’ll be 60 in December and have always stayed healthy and fit but Shingles, definitely did damage to my body as a whole. Suffer with extreme dryness in my eyes and have had to remain on 500 mg of acyclovir, twice daily to keep the virus at bay. My father passed away a year ago and with the way the world is now, I felt my stomach discomfort was due to that along with the lack of exercise and other issues that Covid has brought about. Began to research Plexus because there is an acquaintance that sells/reccomends it but, soon came upon your helpful , extremely informative, article. Ordering everything tomorrow, hoping it will make a huge difference, and quickly. It’s affected everything in my life
The Quercetin isn’t available that you have listed. Is it one of those kind of things that any of them will do?
I would also like to know if you have updated with this regime?
I just started plexus this year, but we just can’t financially swing it and I have missed taking it. It definitely helped jump start my body into the right direction.
Hello!
I have been a pretty faithful plexus user for almost 5 years. After trying supplement after supplement from health food stores and trying to save myself money, I found plexus was the only company that helped me with my issues I was trying to nip in the butt.
For example I have polycystic ovary syndrome. The triplex has helped regulate my periods. I use to have chronic sinus infections and once I would take 1 half round of antibiotics a yeast infection would flair up and last for 6 weeks at a time. I no longer have sinus or yeast infections. Side note probiotics should not need to be refrigerated. Once the refrigerated probiotic hits our gut it loses its strain, alot.
The price of plexus however is pretty costly. And since I am up in Canada I found its wat more money.
I have successfully been able to get pregnant pretty easy with baby 4 and I am pregnant with # 5.
I also use to be severely constipated, and anything I tried didnt work. Biocleanse has kept me regular. I have tried other brands of magnesium and none have worked like biocleanse.
I hope my review helped.
What is the anti fungal in biocleanse I didn’t hear u mention…or an alternative? That’s why it works so well…the anti fungal. Or it may have been in probio5. One has an antifungal. Can u suggest anything!
The antifungal in probio5 is chitonase or something like that. AST enzymes Floracor-GI on Amazon is a perfect dupe but way better…$15.99 for 60
The probio5 has an antifungal and 5 enzymes…what do u recommend to replace that
There is an exact dupe for probio5 called
AST Enzymes Floracor-GI probiotics. That’s what I replaced it with. Over 3 months ago. Actually it’s better…I never experienced the bloat with the AST brand. It’s on Amazon…$15.99 I think for 60
I’m very impressed with your work. Can we get a update?
I’m on plexus now and I went to GNC to find other thing to help with that price tag. I have the money but I don’t wanna go broke living a good healthy life style.
thank you for your hard work.
What is your Amazon link for these products
Hi! I found your page while trying to compare Plexus ProBio5, ActivatedYou and LiftedNaturals. Thanks for the research and the alternatives.
Off subject but you include Mary Kay in the list of MLM companies, Mary Kay is a direct sell but not a MLM. I am a Mary Kay consultant, it is structured differently than a MLM. Just FYI.
Thanks!
Sheila
Thank you for letting me know! I updated the post to remove it. 🙂
It is very important to talk with your doctor as you repeatedly mention. I was taking Plexus Bio-cleanse. Have high cholesterol that is hereditary and needs a small amount of medication. Went in for annual check, and my cholesterol was out of control despite the medication I take. My doctor told me to discontinue Bio-cleanse as it was interfering with the absorption of my cholesterol medication. After 3 months I was back on track. I don’t like taking medication for cholesterol, but it has been the only thing that worked. I did like the VitalBiome, Slim, and ProBio5, but I cannot afford the cost even at the ambassador rate. And, the Slim “Pink Drink” alone is approximately $75 for 30 days. Any suggestions for the Chromium in this product? Thanks for sharing your research!
Hey Linda! Thanks for reiterating that it’s so necessary to talk to your doctor for ANY supplements you consider taking— including Plexus! they could interfere with prescription medications.
To anyone else reading: this is a reminder that this blog post was just to share my experience and research, not necessarily to give any recommendations for anyone else. 🙂 thanks for sharing your experience, Linda! I don’t have any suggestions but I’ve seen Chromium supplements at Whole Foods before. Never tried it, and I don’t know how much efficacy it has, but it could be a conversation with your doc!
Hi Sara, thank you for the post!
I wonder if the alternative probiotic is as effective given there is quite the difference in the types of strains in the original product and your suggest alternative? Furthermore, it seems that the original product also contains a yeast (Saccharomyces …) that is not present in the alternative.
I would love to hear how your journey is going. I am currently looking into European alternatives to Plexus, so your guide has been most helpful!
If u search Amazon there are many probiotics with exact ingredients as plexus plus better….for way cheaper. Vitalitown is a great brand on Amazon. Amazing results
Question, there an alternative to Plexus slim microbiome activating supplement? Sorry if I have already asked this before, I’ve tried so many different probiotics to no avail. The said supplement is the only thing to help with the heat rash. I am all ears if you got ideas for alternatives
Have u tried Vitalitown Digestive Enzymes plus pre and probiotics? U get it on Amazon. It is amazing
I’ve tried magnesium like u said in place of biocleanse. Did not work. I suffered from chronic constipation/pancreatitis til I started biocleanse…I used 4-6 a day but I went every day. But since covid and all I can not afford to buy it. Can u please tell me what you would suggest. Or a magnesium like biocleanse that I can take that amount daily to go. I don’t want to go back to laxatives…cuz I was on them for 5 years cuz not even prescription linzess cured my constipation. By the way…I eat a gluten and dairy free life and no processed sugars. I eat healthy. Please help me so I don’t have to go back on laxatives.
I saw on several sites that the main ingredient in the pink drink was polydextrose. I did not see you mention that. It is supposed to curb the appetite because of the fiber in it. I am thinking I saw that it is a prebiotic, but I am not positive. I have forgotten what else it does, but I ordered some. What are your thoughts on that? I take a MagTab SR and a potassium supplement every day (also D3, Bone Strength (calcium from red sea algae). I have Quercetin that I bought to keep on hand if I got COVID. I think I will take that, too, now that you mentioned it. I could not afford Plexus, but would love to try things that improve gut health and help me lose some COVID pounds (20). Thank you again!!
Hi! I have a friend that is relentlessly trying to get me to try Plexus – I keep hearing that you get what you pay for, and that it can replace the “coffee you buy yourself every day,” which, jokes on them, I make my own every day, haha.
I’m excited to try your alternatives – but I’m finding it extremely challenging to find the Natural Factors Quercetin supplement. Are you finding it somewhere else that we don’t know about? Or have you found a replacement? Please share!
Hello Sara Ann, I have been an Ambassador and using Plexus products for about 2.5-3 years. While I do not necessarily have issues with Plexus products, the costs of the membership fee plus the monthly cost of the 6-8 different products and S&H is just more than I can continue to pay. I am a SC (senior citizen) and I have been looking and researching for alternatives to natural and/or organic supplements manufactured and produced in the USA. Today I finally discontinued my Plexus account, and while doing hours of research again, I “stumbled” on to your blog. Thank you for your information and research you have posted. I am willing to try the alternatives to Plexus you have listed, however will you please update them for such a time as this (September 2021)? I noticed your original posts seem to be mainly from 2019. I would also like to ask if you have a recommendation for a multivitamin. Thank you for your honesty and your help. Keep up your diligence in your professional medical career.
As someone who really benefitted from this Plexus combo, I so very appreciate you finding the good alternatives. I’ve been on it a year, and was starting to just suck up the gaping hole it puts in my budget because it helps so much with my IBS and skin issues, plus the bloating and digestive pains have disappeared too!
Thanks again 💜
Hello, do you have an alternative for plexus- metaburn.
A lot of the vitamins are out of stock u til?! Any other alternative ones you recommend for the triplex?
Ty😄
I was on some Plexus products several years ago. The pink drink, multivitamin, probio and maybe 1 more, can’t remember. I couldn’t afford them is why I stopped.
Having serious health issues and I was going to restart no matter what. Everything has changed. I didn’t even see a multivitamin with what I was taking and much higher. I would have needed a lot more than what I took previously that made me regular for once and slept and felt so much better. On th search for replacements.
Thank you for this article.
Hi I’ve been taking triplex for a year and love the results. I’ve noticed my face isn’t puffy anymore and my stomach issues have improved; however, I’m currently looking for an alternative because of the price. Are you still taking the alternative you’ve mentioned and if so how are they working for you?
Hi! I stopped taking it when I got pregnant with my son and was breastfeeding just due to an abundance of caution and have restarted magnesium but have yet to restart some of the other things! I currently take collagen, a prenatal, magnesium, and vitamin D. Honestly the magnesium and collagen seem to have helped me the most, especially with my stomach issues.