Effects of Synbiotic Supplementation on Biochemical, Coagulation, and Hematological Parameters in Intensive Care Unit Patients With Multiple Trauma and Traumatic Brain Injury Publisher

Summary: Do synbiotics improve blood tests? A short trial found some within-group changes but no significant differences versus controls, leaving clinical benefit uncertain. #Synbiotics #ClinicalTrials

Elyasi M ; Bagherniya M ; Alikiaii B ; Zare M ; Ahmadi A ; Reisnejad Z ; Shokri S ; Eftekhari M H
Source: International Journal of Nutrition Sciences Published:2026

Abstract

Background: Synbiotic supplementation may support gastrointestinal and systemic homeostasis among intensive care unit (ICU) patients. This study evaluated the effects of short-term synbiotic supplementation on biochemical, renal, hepatic, coagulation, electrolyte, and hematological parameters in ICU-admitted patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods: This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial enrolled 62 ICU patients with TBI (Glasgow Coma Scale 4-14) at Al-Zahra Medical Sciences Hospital, Isfahan, from December 2024 to June 2025. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive synbiotics (2×109 CFU/day probiotics plus inulin, 10 g/day) or placebo (maltodextrin) via gavage for 1 week. Blood samples were collected at baseline and post-intervention to assess biochemical, electrolyte, coagulation, and hematological parameters. Results: No significant between-group differences were observed in parameters, including fasting blood sugar, blood urea nitrogen, liver enzymes, coagulation indices, electrolytes, and blood cell counts. However, synbiotic supplementation led to significant within-group reductions in serum creatinine (p=0.001), sodium (p=0.002), Calcium (p=0.038) and chloride (p<0.001), as well as neutrophil percentage (p=0.037), and a significant increase in platelet count (p=0.001) . Conclusion: Short-term synbiotic supplementation was associated with significant within-group improvements in laboratory parameters. However, between-group differences were not statistically significant, suggesting that larger and longer studies are needed to establish clinical relevance. © International Journal of Nutrition Sciences.