Effects of probiotics on the lipid profile: systematic review

Effects of probiotic supplementation on blood lipids ın hypercholesterolemic obese patients: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot trial

Introduction

Objective: this trial aimed to determine the effects of probiotic supplementation on weight loss and lipid profiles in hypercholesterolemic obese patients. Methods: ın this pilot randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, hypercholesterolemic obese patients (BMI = 30.0-35.0 kg/m2) were randomly divided into 2 groups to receive either probiotic capsules (n = 12) or a matching placebo (n = 12) groups. The patients in the probiotic group took capsules 2 times a day that contained Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus plantarum, Streptococcus thermophiles, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium longum (1.5 × 109 CFU/g) for 8 weeks. All patients adhered to a medical nutrition therapy that aimed for a weight loss of 0.5 to 1 kg per week. Anthropometric measurements and body composition were taken at baseline and were monitored every week throughout the study. Blood lipids were assessed at baseline and after the 8-week intervention. Results: after the 8-week dietary intervention, both probiotic and placebo groups showed significant decreased in total cholesterol (-36.50 ± 19.27 vs -25.91 ± 19.25, mg/dl), LDL-C (-(31.75 ± 18.11 vs -31.91 ± 31.00 mg/dl) and TG (-31.83 ± 67.37 vs -28.25 ± 59.09), respectively (p < 0.05). Body weight, BMI, body fat ratio, and waist circumference also significantly decreased after the dietary intervention in both groups (p < 0.05). Overall, no significant difference was found neither in the reductions of total cholesterol, LDL-C, TG concentrations nor the anthropometric indices between the probiotic and placebo groups (p > 0.05). Conclusions: the results of our study demonstrated that the administration of probiotic supplements for 8 weeks in obese subjects with hypercholesterolemia had favorable effects on lipid profiles, although there was no beneficial effect compared to the control group. These results indicate that anthropometric indices significantly decreased in response to adherence to the low-calorie diet recommended by dietitians in both the groups. However, conducting more trails with large sample size and longer follow-up time is necessary.

A fermented functional food enriched in phytosterol and carotenoids improves lipid profile and insulin resistance and restores vitamin A status in high-fat diet-induced metabolic syndrome rats

Tackling metabolic syndrome (MetS) using functional fermented food has recently attracted much attention. A vegetable-fermented maize - and fruit-based probiotic functional food (maize 5% and fruits 30%) was previously designed, which was enriched in papaya/melon carotenoids and dispersible phytosterols to obtain a cholesterol-lowering effect. The aim of this work was to investigate the effect of this new functional food on an HFD (high-fat diet)-induced MetS rat model focusing on lipid and glucose metabolic disorders and considering vitamin A status. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 36) were randomly divided into 4 groups (n = 9): a control group (C); an HFD group; and two HFD groups receiving 1.44 g per rat per day of the functional fermented food during the three months of the experiment following a preventive (HFD-P) or a curative (HFD-C) mode. The intake of the functional food decreased the adipose tissue amount by 1.5 times in preventive and curative mode groups and restored their LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels to C level. The area of hepatic lipid droplets was reduced in both HFD-P and HFD-C groups compared with HFD group, which was associated with a reduction in inflammation and lipid oxidation. Both the HFD-P and HFD-C groups alleviated HFD-induced insulin resistance, as evidenced by the return of fasting insulin levels and the HOMA-IR index to control levels. However, only the HFD-C group improved the glucose tolerance test and skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity. Notably, alteration in vitamin A status in HFD rats was restored with HFD-C and HFD-P. Altogether, these results support the potential of this nutritional strategy to prevent MetS.

Gerobiotics: Exploring the Potential and Limitations of Repurposing Probiotics in Addressing Aging Hallmarks and Chronic Diseases

As unhealthy aging continues to rise globally, there is a pressing need for effective strategies to promote healthy aging, extend health span, and address aging-related complications. Gerobiotics, an emerging concept in geroscience, offers a novel approach to repurposing selective probiotics, postbiotics, and parabiotics to modulate key aging processes and enhance systemic health. This review explores recent advancements in gerobiotics research, focusing on their role in targeting aging hallmarks, regulating longevity-associated pathways, and reducing risks of multiple age-related chronic conditions. Despite their promise, significant challenges remain, including optimizing formulations, ensuring safety and efficacy across diverse populations, and achieving successful clinical translation. Addressing these gaps through rigorous research, well-designed clinical trials, and advanced biotechnologies can establish gerobiotics as a transformative intervention for healthy aging and chronic disease prevention.

Therapeutic Strategies to Modulate Gut Microbial Health: Approaches for Chronic Metabolic Disorder Management

Numerous recent studies have suggested that the composition of the intestinal microbiota can trigger metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, prediabetes, obesity, metabolic syndrome, sarcopenia, dyslipidemia, hyperhomocysteinemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Since then, considerable effort has been made to understand the link between the composition of intestinal microbiota and metabolic disorders, as well as the role of probiotics in the modulation of the intestinal microbiota. The aim of this review was to summarize the reviews and individual articles on the state of the art regarding ideal therapy with probiotics and prebiotics in order to obtain the reversion of dysbiosis (alteration in microbiota) to eubiosis during metabolic diseases, such as diabetes, prediabetes, obesity, hyperhomocysteinemia, dyslipidemia, sarcopenia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases. This review includes 245 eligible studies. In conclusion, a condition of dysbiosis, or in general, alteration of the intestinal microbiota, could be implicated in the development of metabolic disorders through different mechanisms, mainly linked to the release of pro-inflammatory factors. Several studies have already demonstrated the potential of using probiotics and prebiotics in the treatment of this condition, detecting significant improvements in the specific symptoms of metabolic diseases. These findings reinforce the hypothesis that a condition of dysbiosis can lead to a generalized inflammatory picture with negative consequences on different organs and systems. Moreover, this review confirms that the beneficial effects of probiotics on metabolic diseases are promising, but more research is needed to determine the optimal probiotic strains, doses, and administration forms for specific metabolic conditions.

Six-month randomized, placebo controlled trial of synbiotic supplementation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing lifestyle modifications

PURPOSE

To determine whether long-term administration of synbiotics affects clinical, endocrine and metabolic aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in overweight and obese subjects undergoing intensive lifestyle modifications.

METHODS

During six-month trial, all subjects underwent intensive lifestyle modifications (diet and exercise). The subjects were randomized (1:1) to receive synbiotic supplementation (Synbiotic Group) or placebo (Placebo Group).

RESULTS

Subjects in the Placebo Group and the Synbiotic Group experienced significant reduction of BMI (- 8% and - 11%, respectively; both at P < 0.0001) and body fat percentage (- 11% and - 14%, respectively; both at P < 0.0001). These effects were statistically comparable for both groups. Total testosterone was not significantly changed in the Placebo Group (- 5%, P = 0.41) while it greatly declined in the Synbiotic Group (- 40%; P < 0.0001); the difference between these groups was significant (P = 0.0002). Synbiotic supplementation was superior to placebo in reducing LH (- 21%; P = 0.047), total cholesterol (- 6%; P = 0.002), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (- 6%; P = 0.044), triglycerides (- 29%; P = 0.049), LPS (- 23%; P = 0.001) and LPS-binding protein (- 21%; P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Synbiotic supplementation led to a marked improvement of several key clinical and laboratory aspects of PCOS including an improvement of hyperandrogenism, lipid profile, and markers of endotoxemia.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT03325023 (URL, clinicaltrials.gov; date of registration 10/26/2017).

Impact of live microbe intake on cardiovascular disease and mortality in adults with diabetes: A nationwide cohort study

OBJECTIVE

This study examines the association between dietary intake of live microbes (LM) and the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiovascular mortality in adults with diabetes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2001 to 2010, with follow-up mortality data through December 31, 2019. A total of 3,955 adults with diabetes were included. Dietary LM intake was categorized as low (LLM), medium (MLM), or high (HLM). Multivariate weighted logistic regression assessed the relationship between LM intake and CVD, and weighted Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate cardiovascular mortality.

RESULTS

Among the 3,955 participants, 1,064 had CVD. MLM consumers had a significantly lower risk of CVD (OR: 0.55; 95 % CI: 0.33, 0.92) compared to non-consumers, with no significant associations for LLM and HLM. During a median follow-up of 10.5 years, 432 cardiovascular deaths occurred. MLM intake was associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular mortality (HR: 0.65; 95 % CI: 0.49, 0.86).

CONCLUSION

Moderate consumption of dietary live microbes is associated with reduced CVD risk and cardiovascular mortality in adults with diabetes. These findings suggest potential cardiovascular benefits from including LM in the diet of diabetic patients.

Mechanism of Action and Beneficial Effects of Probiotics in Amateur and Professional Athletes

Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, provide health benefits to the host. According to the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), probiotic supplementation can optimize the health, performance, and recovery of athletes at all stages of their careers. Recent research suggests that probiotics can improve immune system functions, reduce gastrointestinal distress, and increase gut permeability in athletes. Additionally, probiotics may provide athletes with secondary health benefits that could positively affect athletic performance through enhanced recovery from fatigue, improved immune function, and maintenance of healthy gastrointestinal tract function. The integration of some probiotic strains into athletes' diets and the consumption of multi-strain compounds may lead to an improvement in performance and can positively affect performance-related aspects such as fatigue, muscle pain, body composition, and cardiorespiratory fitness. In summary, probiotics can be beneficial for athletes at all stages of their careers, from amateur to professional. This paper reviews the progress of research on the role of probiotic supplementation in improving energy metabolism and immune system functions, reducing gastrointestinal distress, and enhancing recovery from fatigue in athletes at different levels.

Gut Microbiota and Gut-Brain Axis in Hypertension: Implications for Kidney and Cardiovascular Health-A Narrative Review

INTRODUCTION

Arterial hypertension is a major contributor to a wide range of health complications, with cardiac hypertrophy and chronic kidney disease being among the most prevalent. Consequently, novel strategies for the treatment and prevention of hypertension are actively being explored. Recent research has highlighted a potential link between hypertension and the gut-brain axis. A bidirectional communication between the microbiota and the brain via the vagus nerve, enteric nervous system, hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis, secreted short-chain fatty acids, and neurotransmitter metabolism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed to identify studies exploring the relationship between gut microbiota and hypertension, along with the effects of dietary interventions and probiotics on blood pressure regulation.

DISCUSSION

Studies in both animal models and human subjects have demonstrated a strong correlation between alterations in gut microbiota composition and the development of hypertension. By influencing blood pressure, the gut microbiota can potentially affect the progression of cardiovascular and kidney disorders. Modulating gut microbiota through dietary interventions and probiotics has shown promise in regulating blood pressure and reducing systemic inflammation, offering a novel approach to managing hypertension. Diets such as the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in polyphenols and omega-3 fatty acids and low in sodium, promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that support cardiovascular health. Additionally, probiotics have been found to enhance gut barrier function, reduce inflammation, and modulate the Renin-Angiotensin System, all of which contribute to lowering blood pressure.

CONCLUSIONS

Further research is needed to determine the mechanisms of action of the microbiota in hypertension. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of gut microbiota on blood pressure regulation and the progression of hypertension-related complications, such as cardiovascular and kidney disorders.

Effectiveness of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics in Managing Insulin Resistance and Hormonal Imbalance in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials

Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances. Recent research suggests that probiotics and synbiotics may improve these parameters by modulating the gut microbiota. This study systematically reviewed randomized clinical trials evaluating the impact of probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic supplementation on insulin resistance and hormonal parameters in women with PCOS. Methods: Exhaustive searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase, following PRISMA guidelines. Randomized trials assessing supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics, or synbiotics for at least 8 weeks in women diagnosed with PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria were included. Data on participants, interventions, and outcomes related to insulin resistance and hormones were extracted. Results: Eleven studies from Iran involving overweight or obese women aged 15 to 48 were included. Probiotic and synbiotic supplementation showed significant improvements in insulin resistance (reductions in HOMA-IR, fasting glucose, and insulin), lipid profiles (decreased LDL and triglycerides; increased HDL), and hormonal balance (increased SHBG, decreased total testosterone). Synbiotics had more pronounced effects than probiotics or prebiotics alone. Adherence was high, and side effects were minimal. Conclusions: Despite promising results, limitations such as small sample sizes, homogeneous populations, and short intervention durations limit the generalization of the findings. Larger, longer, multicenter trials with diverse populations and standardized methodologies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of synbiotics in managing PCOS. Integrating these interventions could improve clinical management and quality of life for affected women, but additional evidence is required to support widespread use.

Effect of probiotics on glycemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized, double blind, controlled trial

Introduction

This double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized (1:1) clinical trial was conducted at the West China Hospital, Sichuan University, from March to September 2017.

Methods

Eligible participants included adults aged 18 years and older, living in the community, diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus according to ADA guidelines, capable of self-managing their diabetes, and able to visit the study site for follow-up. The intervention group received 25 ml of a probiotic beverage containing with over 10^8 CFU/mL of Lactobacillus, administered four times daily. An equal volume of inactivated Lactobacillus was administered to the control group and the control group was administered the same volume of inactivated Lactobacillus. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of probiotics on glycemic control and other diabetes-related outcomes in patients with type 2 diabetes patients. The primary outcomes were changes in HbA1c and FBG levels post-intervention. Investigators, participants, and study site personnel were blinded to the treatment allocation until the conclusion of the study. This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR-POR-17010850).

Results

Of the 490 participants screened, 213 were randomized to either the probiotics group (n = 103) or the placebo group (n = 110). After 16 weeks of follow-up, the probiotic group showed reductions in HbA1c [-0.44 (-0.66 to -0.22)] and FBG [-0.97 (-1.49 to 0.46)] post-intervention, similar to the placebo group with reductions in HbA1c [-0.33 (-0.52 to -0.15)] and FBG [-0.90 (-1.32 to -0.47)], but these changes were not statistically significant in PP and ITT analyses (P>0.05). Adverse events were similarly distributed among groups, indicating comparable safety profiles.

Discussion

Overall, 16-week probiotic supplementation showed no beneficial effects on glycemic control, lipid profiles, or weight.

Clinical Trial Registration

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=18421, identifier ChiCTR-POR-17010850.

Investigation of the probiotic supplement's effect on obese adults demonstrated a reduction in fasting insulin levels: a double-blind randomized clinical trial

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.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains KABP011, KABP012, and KABP013 modulate bile acids and cholesterol metabolism in humans

AIMS

Probiotics with high bile salt hydrolase (BSH) activity have shown to promote cardiovascular health. However, their mechanism(s) of action remain poorly understood. Here, we performed a pilot exploratory study to investigate effects of a 4-week intervention with escalating doses of a BSH-active formula containing Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strains KABP011, KABP012, and KABP013 on bile acid (BA), lipid profile, and lipoprotein function.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Healthy overweight individuals were included in this study. The probiotic intake was associated with a progressive decrease of conjugated BAs in serum, due to the reduction of tauro- and glyco-conjugated forms. Plasma levels of fibroblast growth factor-19 were significantly reduced and correlated with BA changes. The probiotic induced significant changes in serum lipids, with reduction in non-HDL cholesterol (non-HDLc) and LDL cholesterol (LDLc) levels. The largest decrease was evidenced in the subgroup with higher baseline LDLc levels (LDLc > 130 mg/dL). Fasting levels of circulating apolipoprotein(Apo) B100 and ApoB48 were significantly reduced. Importantly, the decrease in non-HDLc levels was associated with a significant reduction in small LDL particles. Functional testing indicated that LDL particles had a significantly lower susceptibility to oxidation, while HDL particles gained antioxidant capacity after the probiotic intake. The microbiota profile in faeces collected at the end of the study was enriched with members of class Desulfovibrio, a taurine-consuming bacteria, likely because of the increase in free taurine in the gut due to the BSH activity of the probiotic.

CONCLUSION

The intervention with L. plantarum strains induces beneficial effects on BA signature and lipoprotein profile. It reduces ApoB and small LDL levels and LDL susceptibility to oxidation and increases HDL antioxidant capacity. These metabolic profile changes suggest increased protection against atherosclerotic disease.

The effects of powdered drinks enriched with curcumin and probiotics on lipid profile and atherogenic indices in patients with metabolic syndrome: A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Cardiovascular disease is prevalent globally and is the most common complication of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Previous studies have suggested that curcumin and probiotics may improve the lipid profile, so we aimed to investigate the effects of the edible powder enriched with these substances on lipid profile level and atherogenic indices such as Atherogenic Coefficient (AC), Castelli Risk Index-I (CRI-I), Castelli Risk Index-II (CRI-II), and Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP). In the present parallel randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial, 124 people with MetS with overweight or obesity were randomly allocated to 4 groups and were followed up for 8 weeks. The participants received a low-calorie diet and a daily sachet of enriched powder drink. The sachets contained either 109 CFU of probiotics or 1 g of curcumin, or probiotic + curcumin (pro + cur), or placebo, respectively. The fasting lipid profile and atherogenic indices were measured at the beginning and end of the study. One hundred and fourteen participants completed the study. At the end of the study, the within- and between-group comparisons showed no significant differences in lipid profile and atherogenic indices (p > .05). Based on the results of the current study, taking an oral powder containing 1 g curcumin and 109 CFU probiotics for 8 weeks had no effect on the lipid profile level and atherogenic indices; however, more studies are recommended.

Randomized clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of synbiotic supplementation on serum endotoxin and trimethylamine N-oxide levels in patients with dyslipidaemia

Introduction

Elevated serum endotoxin and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) are associated with metabolic disorders including dyslipidaemia and insulin resistance. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of a 12-week treatment with a synbiotic supplement on serum endotoxin and TMAO levels in patients diagnosed with dyslipidaemia.

Material and methods

A total of 56 patients who met the study inclusion criteria were recruited in this randomized, double-blind clinical trial. Participants were randomly assigned into intervention and control groups and received either synbiotic or placebo sachets twice a day for 12 weeks. The sociodemographic data, food intake, physical activity, and anthropometric indices of participants were assessed before and after intervention. Serum endotoxin, TMAO, and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were measured at the baseline and end of the study.

Results

No significant difference in the baseline characteristics of participants in the 2 groups was observed. After the 12 weeks of intervention, the mean of serum endotoxin (p < 0.0001), TMAO (p < 0.0001), and FBG (p < 0.0001) was decreased in patients who received synbiotic supplements while no significant change was observed in the control group. Moreover, a significant positive correlation between changes in endotoxin (r = 0.41, p = 0.041) and TMAO (r = 0.40, p = 0.047) with FBG changes was observed.

Conclusions

A significant reduction in serum endotoxin and TMAO levels, as well as improvements in FBG, following 12 weeks of supplementation with synbiotics, may offer a potential approach for improving metabolic status in patients with dyslipidaemia.

Association of Life's Essential 8 with osteoarthritis in United States adults: mediating effects of dietary intake of live microbes

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is associated with cardiovascular disease and represents a persistent economic and physical burden on patients in the United States. This study evaluated the mediating effect of dietary live microbe intake on the association between cardiovascular health [based on Life's Essential 8 (LE8) scores] and osteoarthritis (OA) in adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 1999-2019 (from patients aged ≥20 years). LE8 scores (0-100) were measured according to the American Heart Association definition and categorized as low (0-49), moderate (50-79), or high (80-100). OA disease status was assessed using self-reported data from patients. The relationships were evaluated using multivariate logistic and restricted cubic spline models. Mediation analysis was used to evaluate the mediating effect of dietary live microbe intake on the association between LE8 and OA risk.

Results

The study included 23,213 participants aged ≥20 years. After adjusting for latent confounders, higher LE8 scores were found to be associated with a lower incidence of OA. The odds ratios (with 95% confidence intervals) for low, moderate, and high OA risk were 0.81 (0.69, 0.96) and 0.55 (0.44, 0.69), respectively; a non-linear dose-response relationship was observed (P-nonlinear = 0.012). Health behavior and health factor scores showed a similar pattern of correlation with OA risk. Low live microbe intake mediated the association between LE8, health behavior, and health factor scores with OA risk and did not appear to reduce OA risk.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that although higher LE8 scores reduce the risk of developing OA, low live microbe intake may reduce the protective effect of higher scores. It is, therefore, essential to emphasize adherence to a lifestyle that confers high LE8 scores. Individuals should also be advised to reduce the intake of foods with low live microbe content.

Combined effects of yacon flour and probiotic yogurt on the metabolic parameters and inflammatory and insulin signaling proteins in high-fat-diet-induced obese mice

BACKGROUND

Prebiotics and probiotics may be effective dietary components that can alter the gut microbiota of the host and, consequently, overcome imbalances associated with obesity. This work aimed to evaluate the synergistic and isolated effects and mechanisms by which probiotic yogurt containing Bifidobacterium animalis and/or Lactobacillus acidophilus and yacon flour alter metabolic parameters and inflammatory and insulin signaling proteins in diet-induced obese mice. Swiss mice were fed a high-fat diet (n = 48) or a standard diet (control; n = 6) for 56 days. The 42 mice that gained the most weight were selected and divided into seven groups that received different combinations of probiotic yogurt and yacon flour. After 30 days, biochemical parameters (blood glucose, serum total cholesterol, and triacylglycerols), crude fat excretion in feces, and periepididymal fat were assessed and an immunoblotting analysis of insulin signaling proteins and interleukin-1β was conducted.

RESULTS

The combination of yacon flour and a yogurt with two strains of probiotics exerted positive effects on the parameters evaluated, such as decreased body weight (-6.5%; P < 0.05), fasting glucose (-23.1%; P < 0.05), and triacylglycerol levels (-21.4%; P < 0.05) and decreased periepididymal fat accumulation (-44.2%; P < 0.05). There was a decrease in inflammatory markers (P < 0.001) and an improvement in insulin signaling (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of a prebiotic with two strains of probiotics in a food matrix may exert a protective effect against obesity-associated inflammation, improving insulin resistance, even in the short term. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.

Association of Dietary Live Microbe Intake with Cardiovascular Disease in US Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study of NHANES 2007-2018

Objective: To detect the potential association between dietary live microbe and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Methods: Data of 10,875 participants aged 18 years or older in this study were collected from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Participants in this study were divided into three groups according to the Sanders dietary live microbe classification system: low, medium, and high dietary live microbe groups. CVD was defined by a combination of self-reported physician diagnoses and standardized medical status questionnaires. The analyses utilized weighted logistic regression models. Results: After the full adjustment for confounders, patients in the medium dietary live microbe group had a low prevalence of CVD in contrast to those in the low dietary live microbe group (OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.52−0.99, and p < 0.05), but no significant association with CVD was detected between the high and low dietary live microbe groups. Higher dietary live microbe groups were negatively associated with the prevalence of stroke (p for trend = 0.01) and heart attack (p for trend = 0.01). People who were male were more likely to suffer stroke due to low dietary live microbe (p for interaction = 0.03). Conclusion: A high dietary live microbe intake was associated with a low prevalence of CVD, and the significant association was detected when the analysis was limited to stroke and heart attack.

Effects of Lactobacillus curvatus HY7601 and Lactobacillus plantarum KY1032 on Overweight and the Gut Microbiota in Humans: Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Obesity and overweight are closely related to diet, and the gut microbiota play an important role in body weight and human health. The aim of this study was to explore how Lactobacillus curvatus HY7601 and Lactobacillus plantarum KY1032 supplementation alleviate obesity by modulating the human gut microbiome. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 72 individuals with overweight. Over a 12-week period, probiotic groups consumed 1 × 1010 colony-forming units of HY7601 and KY1032, whereas the placebo group consumed the same product without probiotics. After treatment, the probiotic group displayed a reduction in body weight (p < 0.001), visceral fat mass (p < 0.025), and waist circumference (p < 0.007), and an increase in adiponectin (p < 0.046), compared with the placebo group. Additionally, HY7601 and KY1032 supplementation modulated bacterial gut microbiota characteristics and beta diversity by increasing Bifidobacteriaceae and Akkermansiaceae and decreasing Prevotellaceae and Selenomonadaceae. In summary, HY7601 and KY1032 probiotics exert anti-obesity effects by regulating the gut microbiota; hence, they have therapeutic potential for preventing or alleviating obesity and living with overweight.

Novel Pharmaceutical and Nutraceutical-Based Approaches for Cardiovascular Diseases Prevention Targeting Atherogenic Small Dense LDL

Compelling evidence supports the causative link between increased levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) development. For that reason, the principal aim of primary and secondary cardiovascular prevention is to reach and sustain recommended LDL-C goals. Although there is a considerable body of evidence that shows that lowering LDL-C levels is directly associated with CVD risk reduction, recent data shows that the majority of patients across Europe cannot achieve their LDL-C targets. In attempting to address this matter, a new overarching concept of a lipid-lowering approach, comprising of even more intensive, much earlier and longer intervention to reduce LDL-C level, was recently proposed for high-risk patients. Another important concern is the residual risk for recurrent cardiovascular events despite optimal LDL-C reduction, suggesting that novel lipid biomarkers should also be considered as potential therapeutic targets. Among them, small dense LDL particles (sdLDL) seem to have the most significant potential for therapeutic modulation. This paper discusses the potential of traditional and emerging lipid-lowering approaches for cardiovascular prevention by targeting sdLDL particles.

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum dfa1 Outperforms Enterococcus faecium dfa1 on Anti-Obesity in High Fat-Induced Obesity Mice Possibly through the Differences in Gut Dysbiosis Attenuation, despite the Similar Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Fat reduction and anti-inflammation are commonly claimed properties of probiotics. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum and Enterococcus faecium were tested in high fat-induced obesity mice and in vitro experiments. After 16 weeks of probiotics, L. plantarum dfa1 outperforms E. faecium dfa1 on the anti-obesity property as indicated by body weight, regional fat accumulation, serum cholesterol, inflammatory cytokines (in blood and colon tissue), and gut barrier defect (FITC-dextran assay). With fecal microbiome analysis, L. plantarum dfa1 but not E. faecium dfa1 reduced fecal abundance of pathogenic Proteobacteria without an alteration in total Gram-negative bacteria when compared with non-probiotics obese mice. With palmitic acid induction, the condition media from both probiotics similarly attenuated supernatant IL-8, improved enterocyte integrity and down-regulated cholesterol absorption-associated genes in Caco-2 cell (an enterocyte cell line) and reduced supernatant cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) with normalization of cell energy status (extracellular flux analysis) in bone-marrow-derived macrophages. Due to the anti-inflammatory effect of the condition media of both probiotics on palmitic acid-activated enterocytes was neutralized by amylase, the active anti-inflammatory molecules might, partly, be exopolysaccharides. As L. plantarum dfa1 out-performed E. faecium dfa1 in anti-obesity property, possibly through the reduced fecal Proteobacteria, with a similar anti-inflammatory exopolysaccharide; L. plantarum is a potentially better option for anti-obesity than E. faecium.

Probiotics act as a potent intervention in improving lipid profile: An umbrella systematic review and meta-analysis

Several meta-analysis studies have revealed improving effects of probiotics on lipid profile, while some studies have reported controversial findings. The purpose of present study was to evaluate the efficacy of probiotics on blood lipids. Relevant studies were searched in the international databases, including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Library up to August 2021. The pooled results were calculated with the use of a random-effects model to assess the effects of probiotics on blood lipids. Overall, 38 meta-analyses were inclueded in the study. The results indicated that the probiotics supplementation was effective on reduction of total cholesterol (TC) (ES= -0.46 mg/dL; 95% CI: -0.61, -0.30, p < 0.001; I²= 83.8%, p < 0.001), triglycerides (TG) (ES= -0.13 mg/dl; 95% CI: -0.23, -0.04, p = 0.006; I²= 74.7%, p < 0.001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)levels (ES= -0.29 mg/dL; 95% CI: -0.40, -0.19, p < 0.001; I²= 77.8%, p < 0.001). There was no significant effect of probiotics on high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (ES= 0.02 mg/dl; 95% CI: -0.04, 0.08, p = 0.519; I²= 72.5%, p= <0.001). The results of present umbrella meta-analysis strongly support supplementation with probiotics as an influential intervention for improving lipid profile.

Probiotics, Prebiotics and Synbiotics-A Promising Strategy in Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases?

Recent evidence suggests that probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics may serve as important dietary components in the prevention (especially) and treatment of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), but the recommendations for their use are often based on brief reports and small clinical studies. This review evaluates the current literature on the correlation between CVD and probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics. Although research on probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics has grown exponentially in recent years, particularly regarding the effect of probiotics on CVD, their mechanisms have not been clearly defined. It has been proposed that probiotics lower cholesterol levels, and may protect against CVD, by increasing bile salt synthesis and bile acid deconjugation. Similar effects have also been observed for prebiotics and synbiotics; however, probiotics also appear to have anti-oxidative, anti-platelet and anti-inflammatory properties. Importantly, probiotics not only have demonstrated effects in vitro and in animal models, but also in humans, where supplementation with probiotics decreases the risk factors of CVD. In addition, the properties of commercial probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics remain undetermined, and further experimental research is needed before these substances can be used in the prevention and treatment of CVD. In particular, well-designed clinical trials are required to determine the influence of probiotics on trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), which is believed to be a marker of CVDs, and to clarify the long-term effects, and action, of probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic supplementation in combination with drug therapy (for example, aspirin). However, while it cannot be unequivocally stated whether such supplementation yields benefits in the prevention and treatment of CVDs, it is important to note that clinical studies performed to date have not identified any side-effects to use.