Probiotics For Weight Loss?

Probiotics are friendly bacteria that are normally found in the body, especially in the digestive tract. People usually think of bacteria as harmful to the body, but in reality, our bodies harbor millions of good bacteria, called probiotics, which help keep us healthy. We also have some amount of potentially harmful microorganisms in the body, especially in the mouth, anus, genitals, and skin. However, their harmful effects are controlled by the presence of the good bacteria, which prevent the harmful bacteria from multiplying.

Aside from these, good bacteria are also known to help reduce digestive problems as well as allergic reactions.

Recent Studies on Probiotics and Weight Loss

Recent research suggests that probiotics may play a role in helping overweight and obese people to lose weight. One study, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, found that participants who took varying doses of Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055, a strain of probiotics, lost up to 9% of visceral fat (fat hidden in the organs in the abdomen and around the heart). Researcher Yukio Kadooka, who works with the Japanese Snow Brand Company explained that probiotics may lower intestinal inflammation and aid digestion, which could reduce the buildup of body fat.

Another study, this time involving laboratory animals, found that certain strains of friendly bacteria, which produce a specific compound in the gut of obese mice, can prevent weight gain and insulin resistance. The study was conducted by researchers from the Vanderbilt University and was published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. It found that a genetically modified strain of E. coli Nissle 1917 leads to their production of a substance called NAPE, which could reverse the adverse effects of a high-fat diet.

See Also: What Can A Daily Probiotic Do To Help People With Obesity?

The study, which was conducted by scientists from Nestlé's research lab and the Université Laval in Quebec, found that obese women who consume probiotics could lose up to twice as much weight as women who do not add these food products in their diet. The study, which was published in the British Journal of Nutrition, involved men and women who were asked to take either probiotic pills or placebo daily for 24 weeks. The impact of probiotics on weight loss was observed only in women, and not in the male participants. The researchers found that those who took probiotics had a significant reduction in hormone levels of leptin, which regulates appetite, as well as a drop in the amount of intestinal bacteria linked to obesity. The authors, who based their study on the belief that the intestinal flora (bacteria) of obese individuals differ from those found in thin people, think that probiotics may help reset the gut's balance of microorganisms. A diet that is high in fat and low in fiber may promote a decline in the number of good bacteria, but with the consumption of probiotics, a balance in gut bacteria may be restored.

Health Benefits Of Probiotics

Scientists believe that probiotics may alter the ability of the inner lining of the gut to allow pro-inflammatory molecules to penetrate and enter the bloodstream. This prevents the chain of events that may lead to weight-associated illnesses like obesity, glucose intolerance, and type 2 diabetes.

Any of these may be effective for some digestive problems if they contain the right types and amounts of beneficial organisms.

More research on the benefits of probiotics on weight loss have to be conducted before conclusive evidence can be established. It is noteworthy, however, to mention that previous studies have also shown other health benefits from probiotics. These include the following:

• Treatment of childhood diarrhea

• Treatment of ulcerative colitis

• Treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis in infants

• Prevention of infectious and antibiotic-associated diarrhea

• Prevention of inflammation of the intestines after intestinal surgery

• Treatment and prevention of eczema associated with milk allergy

• Support of the immune system

• Reduces irritable bowel syndrome symptoms

• Treatment of vaginitis

• Treatment of Crohn's disease

• Reduces risk of common pediatric illnesses such as strep throat, colds and ear infection

To enjoy these benefits, experts recommend buying products that contain probiotics such as these:

• Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, which supports the immune system

• Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC55730

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)

• Lactobacillus casei DN-114 001

• Bifidobacterium lactis Bb-12

• S. cerevisiae or S. boulardii

• Lactobacillus acidophilus CL1285 plus Lactobicillus casei Lbc80r

Should You Take Probiotics for Weight Loss?

It is fair warning to say that in spite of published research, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has, so far, not approved of any specific health claims linked to probiotics. Furthermore, studies have found varying probiotic strains and amounts used that are believed to be beneficial for different conditions. However, many health experts believe that taking probiotics may help improve digestive health and immune system function, which can reduce one's risk of acute and chronic diseases.

One must remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced, nutritious diet and regular physical activity is more important in managing weight than depending on dietary supplements such as probiotics. It is also recommended that consumers do their own research about the type of microorganisms they need to consume to reap specific benefits, and the amount or dose of probiotics that is needed to achieve these effects. Storage information is also important to keep the microorganisms viable, since some of these need refrigeration, while others tolerate room temperatures.

See Also: Probiotics for Kids: A Guide to a Healthier Diet for Kids

Probiotics, in general, are considered to be safe for regular consumption. However, some people are advised to avoid taking them, and they include individuals whose immune systems are severely compromised, such as cancer patients who are terminally ill, and those with acute pancreatitis or leaky bowel conditions. In addition, since probiotic products are considered as food supplements and not as drugs, the FDA does not regulate the marketing of these goods. It is therefore up to the consumers to choose a reliable brand of probiotics and to read their labels to determine which ones can benefit them.