Gut microbiome supplementation as therapy for metabolic syndrome

Effects of Cornus mas L. Supplementation on Anthropometric and Metabolic Characteristics in Patients With Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials

The high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is threatening the health of people around the world. The fruit of Cornus mas L. (CM) is rich in bioactive compounds that have the potential to promote health and improve chronic diseases associated with MetS. This systematic review aimed to compile data on the effects of CM supplementation on anthropometric and metabolic characteristics in patients with MetS. Scopus, Web of Sciences, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane library were employed to identify the eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of CM on anthropometric parameters, glycemia, and lipid profiles up to December 2024. The included articles were subjected to assessment using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool and the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. A heterogeneity test was conducted on the included trials using the I 2 statistic. A random-effects model was applied based on the results of the heterogeneity tests, and the pooled data were presented as the mean difference with a 95% confidence interval (CI). A total of five RCTs were included in the analysis, with a total sample size of 313 human subjects. The results indicated that CM had a significant effect on lowering body mass index (BMI) (MD: -0.31; 95% CI: -0.46 to -0.16, p < 0.0001, I 2 = 15%), hip circumference (HC) (MD: -0.84; 95% CI: -1.31 to -0.37, p = 0.0005, I 2 = 19%), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (MD: -4.85; 95% CI: -7.80 to -1.91, p = 0.001, I 2 = 24%), and total cholesterol (TC) levels (MD: -13.40; 95% CI: -18.93 to -7.87, p < 0.00001, I 2 = 30%). Furthermore, a notable elevation in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) was observed in CM interventions (MD: 2.08; 95% CI: 0.03-4.13, p = 0.05, I 2 = 0%). Compared to the control group, the reduction in insulin (MD: -3.20; 95% CI: -5.25 to -1.15, p = 0.002, I 2 = 83%), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) (MD: -0.36; 95% CI: -0.67 to -0.04, p = 0.03, I 2 = 89%), triglyceride (TG) (MD: -36.47, 95% CI: -62.03 to -10.91, p = 0.005, I 2 = 76%), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) (MD: -15.35; 95% CI: -25.63 to -5.06, p = 0.003, I 2 = 52%) were observed in CM interventions, although there was considerable heterogeneity in the results. In conclusion, the present findings suggest the beneficial effects of CM supplementation on MetS and related disorders. However, in order to establish a robust link between CM and MetS, further trials with adequate sample sizes are warranted.

Probiotics and Food Bioactives: Unraveling Their Impact on Gut Microbiome, Inflammation, and Metabolic Health

This review paper delves into the role of probiotics and food bioactives in influencing gut health and overall well-being, within the context of probiotics and food bioactives, emphasizing their roles in modulating inflammation, gut microbiota, and metabolic health. Probiotics are defined as live microorganisms that confer health benefits to the host, primarily through their impact on the gut microbiome; a complex community of microorganisms crucial for maintaining health. The review aims to elucidate how probiotics, incorporated into both traditional and modern food systems, can enhance gut health and address metabolic disorders. It examines the types of probiotics present in various foods and their mechanisms of action, including their effects on immune function and metabolic health. By exploring the links between probiotics and health outcomes such as digestive health, immune support, and mental health, the review identifies specific conditions where probiotics show significant promise. Hurldes such as inconsistencies in research findings, variability in probiotic strains, and dosages are addressed. The paper also suggests future research directions, including the potential for personalized probiotic interventions. The review concludes by summarizing key findings and emphasizing the critical role of probiotics in food systems for promoting overall health and mitigating metabolic diseases.

New therapy for metabolic syndrome: Gut microbiome supplementation

The gut microbiota is important in the development and progression of metabolic illnesses such type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and obesity. This diverse community of microorganisms controls a variety of physiological functions, including metabolism, inflammation, and immune response. Understanding these interactions has resulted in novel therapeutic options, including microbiome supplementation. The gut microbiome is extremely susceptible to dietary changes, which can alter its makeup and function, influencing metabolite synthesis that affects host health. Certain metabolites, such as butyrate and propionate, have been proven to protect against metabolic illnesses, whereas trimethylamine has been linked to CVD. Prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics are being investigated by researchers as ways to change the gut microbiome and boost metabolic health. Despite advances in therapy and lifestyle adjustments, the prevalence of metabolic syndrome is increasing, emphasizing the need for new medicines.

Harnessing the Power of the Gut Microbiome: A Review of Supplementation Therapies for Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex condition characterized by abdominal obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension, all of which increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The gut microbiome plays a significant role in metabolic health, influencing digestion, immune function, and energy metabolism. When the gut microbiota becomes imbalanced due to poor diet and antibiotic use, it can lead to systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and abnormal lipid metabolism, which are central features of MetS. This review explores the connection between gut microbial imbalances and MetS, focusing on the impact of the gut microbiome on metabolic health. Supplementation therapies targeting the gut microbiome, such as probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics, are evaluated for their potential to improve metabolic parameters in MetS patients. These interventions hold promise for enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and improving lipid profiles. However, further research is needed to optimize these approaches for managing MetS. Understanding how to leverage the gut microbiome could lead to innovative, non-invasive treatments for this growing global health concern.

Metabolic Syndrome and Psoriasis: Pivotal Roles of Chronic Inflammation and Gut Microbiota

In recent years, the incidence of metabolic syndrome (MS) has increased due to lifestyle-related factors in developed countries. MS represents a group of conditions that increase the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other severe health problems. Low-grade chronic inflammation is now considered one of the key aspects of MS and could be defined as a new cardiovascular risk factor. Indeed, an increase in visceral adipose tissue, typical of obesity, contributes to the development of an inflammatory state, which, in turn, induces the production of several proinflammatory cytokines responsible for insulin resistance. Psoriasis is a chronic relapsing inflammatory skin disease and is characterized by the increased release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to different pathological conditions within the spectrum of MS. A link between metabolic disorders and Psoriasis has emerged from evidence indicating that weight loss obtained through healthy diets and exercise was able to improve the clinical course and therapeutic response of Psoriasis in patients with obesity or overweight patients and even prevent its occurrence. A key factor in this balance is the gut microbiota; it is an extremely dynamic system, and this makes its manipulation through diet possible via probiotic, prebiotic, and symbiotic compounds. Given this, the gut microbiota represents an additional therapeutic target that can improve metabolism in different clinical conditions.

Okinawa-Based Nordic Diet Decreases Plasma Levels of IAPP and IgA against IAPP Oligomers in Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Pancreas-derived islet amyloid polypeptide (IAPP) aggregates and deposits in the pancreas and periphery of Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) patients, contributing to diabetic complications. The excess IAPP can be removed by autoantibodies, and increased levels of immunoglobulin (Ig) G against IAPP have been reported in T2D patients. However, whether other Ig classes are also affected and if the levels can be managed is less known. This pre-post study examines IgA levels against IAPP oligomers (IAPPO-IgA) in T2D patients and assesses the impact of the Okinawa-based Nordic (O-BN) diet-a low-carbohydrate, high-fiber diet-on these levels after following the diet for 3 months. IAPP, IAPPO-IgA, and total IgA levels were measured in plasma and fecal samples from n = 30 T2D patients collected at baseline, after 3 months of diet, and after additional 4 months of unrestricted diets (a clinical follow-up). The IAPP and IAPPO-IgA levels were significantly lower after 3 months, with the latter also being significantly reduced at the clinical follow-up. The reduction in plasma IAPP and IAPPO-IgA levels correlated with reductions in plasma levels of metabolic and inflammatory markers. Hence, following the O-BN diet for at least 3 months is sufficient to reduce circulating IAPP and IAPPO-IgA levels, which may be principal in managing T2D.

A Novel Nutraceutical Supplement Lowers Postprandial Glucose and Insulin Levels upon a Carbohydrate-Rich Meal or Sucrose Drink Intake in Healthy Individuals-A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Feeding Study

BACKGROUND

Alkaloid- and polyphenol-rich white mulberry leaf and apple peel extracts have been shown to have potential glucose-lowering effects, benefitting the control of postprandial blood glucose levels. This study aimed to determine the effect of the combination of Malus domestica peel and Morus alba leaf extracts (GLUBLOCTM) on postprandial blood glucose and insulin-lowering effects in healthy adults after a carbohydrate-rich meal or sucrose drink intake.

METHODS

This study was designed as a randomized, crossover, single-blinded clinical trial. Out of 116 healthy participants, 85 subjects (aged 18-60 years) completed the day 1 and 5 crossover study. On day 1, subjects were supplemented with a placebo or GLUBLOCTM tablet 10 min before the carbohydrate-rich meal (300 g of tomato rice) or sucrose drink intake (75 g of sucrose dissolved in 300 mL water). On day 5, the treatments were crossed over, and the same diet was followed. Postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels were measured on days 1 and 5 (baseline 0, post-meal 30, 60, 90, and 120 min). Differences in iAUC, Cmax, and Tmax were determined between the placebo and GLUBLOCTM-treated cohorts.

RESULTS

Significant changes in total iAUC (0-120 min), Cmax, and Tmax of postprandial blood glucose and insulin levels were noticed upon GLUBLOCTM supplementation. The percentage reduction in the iAUC of blood glucose levels was 49.78% (iAUC0-60min) and 43.36% (iAUC0-120min), respectively, compared with the placebo in the sucrose drink intake study. Similarly, there was a 41.13% (iAUC0-60min) and 20.26% (iAUC0-120min) glucose-lowering effect compared with the placebo in the carbohydrate-rich meal intake study.

CONCLUSIONS

Premeal supplementation with GLUBLOCTM significantly reduced the postprandial surge in blood glucose and insulin levels after a carbohydrate-rich meal or sucrose drink intake over 120 min in healthy individuals. This study proves that GLUBLOCTM can manage steady postprandial blood glucose levels.

Modulating the Gut Microbiota and Metabolites with Traditional Chinese Medicines: An Emerging Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Complications

Currently, an estimated 537 million individuals are affected by type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the occurrence of which is invariably associated with complications. Glucose-lowering therapy remains the main treatment for alleviating T2DM. However, conventional antidiabetic agents are fraught with numerous adverse effects, notably elevations in blood pressure and lipid levels. Recently, the use of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and their constituents has emerged as a preferred management strategy aimed at curtailing the progression of diabetes and its associated complications with fewer adverse effects. Increasing evidence indicates that gut microbiome disturbances are involved in the development of T2DM and its complications. This regulation depends on various metabolites produced by gut microbes and their interactions with host organs. TCMs' interventions have demonstrated the ability to modulate the intestinal bacterial microbiota, thereby restoring host homeostasis and ameliorating metabolic disorders. This review delves into the alterations in the gut microbiota and metabolites in T2DM patients and how TCMs treatment regulates the gut microbiota, facilitating the management of T2DM and its complications. Additionally, we also discuss prospective avenues for research on natural products to advance diabetes therapy.

Metabolic syndrome's new therapy: Supplement the gut microbiome

This letter to the editor discusses the publication on gut microbiome supplementation as therapy for metabolic syndrome. Gut microbiome dysbiosis disrupts intestinal bacterial homeostasis and is related to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and obesity. Previous research has found that increasing the abundance of beneficial microbiota in the gut modulates metabolic syndrome by reducing chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. Prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics are often used as supplements to increase the number of beneficial microbes and thus the production of short-chain fatty acids, which have positive effects on the gut microbiome and metabolic syndrome. In this review article, the author summarizes the available supplements to increase the abundance of beneficial gut microbiota and reduce the abundance of harmful microbiota in patients with metabolic disorders. Our group is also researching the role of the gut microbiota in chronic liver disease. This article will be of great help to our research. At the end of the letter, the mechanism of the gut microbiota in chronic liver disease is discussed.

Caenorhabditis elegans as a Screening Model for Probiotics with Properties against Metabolic Syndrome

There is a growing need to develop new approaches to prevent and treat diseases related to metabolic syndromes, including obesity or type 2 diabetes, that focus on the different factors involved in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Due to the role of gut microbiota in the regulation of glucose and insulin homeostasis, probiotics with beneficial properties have emerged as an alternative therapeutic tool to ameliorate metabolic diseases-related disturbances, including fat excess or inflammation. In the last few years, different strains of bacteria, mainly lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and species from the genus Bifidobacterium, have emerged as potential probiotics due to their anti-obesogenic and/or anti-diabetic properties. However, in vivo studies are needed to demonstrate the mechanisms involved in these probiotic features. In this context, Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a very powerful simple in vivo model to study the physiological and molecular effects of probiotics with potential applications regarding the different pathologies of metabolic syndrome. This review aims to summarize the main studies describing anti-obesogenic, anti-diabetic, or anti-inflammatory properties of probiotics using C. elegans as an in vivo research model, as well as providing a description of the molecular mechanisms involved in these activities.