Investigation of the Probiotic Supplement’S Effect on Obese Adults Demonstrated a Reduction in Fasting Insulin Levels: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial Publisher

Summary: Can probiotics help with obesity? A study suggests probiotics may reduce insulin and body fat in obese adults, offering a potential new approach to weight control. #ObesityTreatment #Probiotics

Hasaniranjbar S¹ ; Hoseini Tavassol Z¹ ; Malmir H^{1, 2} ; Ejtahed HS^{1, 3} ; Tajabadi Ebrahimi M⁴ ; Larijani B³
Source: Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders Published:2024

Abstract

Purpose: Regarding the importance of obesity concerns and trying to help obese individuals, we planned to develop an effective probiotic formula for weight control. So, this double-blind randomized clinical trial study investigated the impact of probiotics supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical parameters in obese adults. Methods: In this study, 66 obese patients with BMI in the range of 30–40 kg/m2, were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the probiotic or placebo group. They all received advice to maintain a reduction in daily caloric intake and for 3 months received two unlabeled placebo or probiotic (Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei and Bifidobacterium langum) capsules per day. For each participant demographic and medical history questionnaire, semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and modifiable activity questionnaire (MAQ) were completed at the beginning of the study and anthropometric and biochemical measurements were done before and after intervention. Results: At the end of the trial 25 subjects in the probiotic group and 26 subjects in the placebo group were analyzed. After the intervention, in the probiotic group, the level of fasting insulin was reduced significantly (P < 0.05). Weight, body mass index, waist circumference, and hip circumference decreased within both groups. This reduction amount’s mean was higher in the probiotic group. Also, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels were decreased, but not statistically significant. Conclusion: This study may suggest the potential of this combined probiotic supplement for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders. However, further researches are warranted for a definitive determination of its properties. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Tehran University of Medical Sciences 2024.