The Latest Research on Probiotics and Weight Loss: Learn the Science Behind It
Probiotics have been one of the most talked about topics in the field of health and wellness for years. They are known to have a positive effect on the gut, which is the cornerstone of good health. But did you know that probiotics can also help with weight loss?
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that are introduced to our body to provide health benefits. They are found in various fermented foods, supplements and yoghurts.
How Do Probiotics Work?
Probiotics mostly affect the gut by helping to maintain a healthy balance of good bacteria while reducing the amount of harmful bacteria in the gut. They facilitate digestion and absorption of macronutrients and micronutrients, making it easier for food to pass through the gut. Additionally, they can help with the production of beneficial compounds such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) which help fuel the gut cells and the immune system.
Probiotics and Weight Loss: The Science
The relationship between probiotics and weight loss has been studied in different researches, and it has been found that consuming probiotics can help to reduce weight and body fat by preventing the accumulation of excess fat and improving metabolism.
Preventing the Accumulation of Excess Fat
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods showed that consuming one serving of yoghurt containing probiotics per day for six weeks resulted in a significant reduction in body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and body fat percentage. This effect was attributed to the probiotics’ ability to reduce the absorption of dietary fat and total cholesterol in the gut.
Improving Metabolism
In another study published in the Journal of Nutrition, it was found that probiotics can help increase the body’s metabolism rate. The study found that consuming fermented milk containing Lactobacillus gasseri resulted in a significant reduction in body weight, abdominal fat, waist circumference and BMI after a 12-week intervention compared to the control group.
Best Probiotics for Weight Loss
Probiotics are not all created equal, so it is important to know which strains are most effective for weight loss. Some of the best strains include:
- Lactobacillus Gasseri: this strain has been associated with the reduction of body weight, waist circumference and BMI
- Lactobacillus Rhamnosus: this strain is often used to prevent obesity and has been shown to reduce body weight and BMI in some studies
- Bifidobacterium Lactis: this strain has been shown to have a positive effect on gut microbiome composition, which can lead to weight loss
- Streptococcus Thermophilus: this strain has been found to help improve gut function and metabolism
Conclusion
In conclusion, the latest research on probiotics and weight loss shows that consuming probiotics can have a positive effect on reducing body weight, body mass index, waist circumference and body fat percentage. However, it is important to remember that probiotics alone cannot produce significant weight loss results; it is always recommended to combine probiotic consumption with physical activity and a well-balanced diet for optimal results.
