Probiotics are live microorganisms (bacteria) or yeasts that, when consumed, are purported to help build and maintain a healthy gut.
When it comes to the association between probiotics and weight loss, current research points to the fact that individuals with overweight and obesity appear to have an imbalance of healthy bacteria in their gut, which, over time, may lead to issues such as a slow release of satiary hormones like glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and an increase of triglycerides in fatty tissue. Therefore, an increase of healthy bacteria (probiotics) is theorized to help lead to a better gut balance, less hunger and possibly weight loss.
While research on probiotics’ impact on the body is ongoing, there is some evidence to suggest they may help with weight loss, explains Amber Core, a registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
“The results of a number of systematic reviews of the research indicate that probiotics and synbiotics, whether used as single-strain or multi-strain, could have a favorable effect on weight loss in people who are overweight or obese,” adds Collier. “Specific strains belonging to the genus Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium were the most used and those that showed the best results in reducing body weight,” she continues.
In one 2021 review of 27 studies centered on the relationship between probiotics and weight loss, 23 of those studies found that probiotics had a positive impact, which led researchers to conclude that probiotics do have the potential to help those with overweight or obesity lose weight. [1]Álvarez-Arraño V, Martín-Peláez S. Effects of Probiotics and Synbiotics on Weight Loss in Subjects with Overweight or Obesity: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2021;13(10):3627.
While this research sounds encouraging, Collier warns that “it’s important to note that many of the studies investigating the impact of probiotics on weight also combined probiotic interventions with calorie restriction and/or increased physical activity. In this way, we can’t credit the use of probiotics alone with the weight loss effect.”
FAQs
Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, specifically L. rhamonus, L. gasseri, and B. lactis are the most well-researched strains regarding weight loss.
Do probiotics really work for weight loss? ›
There's little evidence to suggest that taking the probiotic supplements currently available on the market can help with weight loss, but eating probiotic foods such as yogurt is linked to changes in our microbiomes and less belly fat.
What gut bacteria promote weight loss? ›
Gut bacteria and weight loss
People who had more bacteria that belonged to a group called Prevotella compared with those that belonged to the Bacteroides group lost weight and body fat more easily than people who had equal amounts of these bacteria.
What is comparable to Provitalize? ›
Menoquil is a dietary supplement formulated to alleviate the multifaceted symptoms associated with menopause. Menoquil's approach is quite similar to that of Provitalize. The supplement targets the hormonal imbalances that often underlie menopause symptoms.
Is apple cider vinegar a probiotic? ›
Apple cider vinegar contains prebiotics and probiotics. Both of these can support a healthy gut microbiome. The gut microbiome includes all the good bacteria in your gut that help with digestion — and keep the rest of your body running smoothly. First, ACV contains acetic acid that has prebiotic properties.
Is Provitalize FDA approved? ›
Provitalize has not been approved and is not FDA regulated.
Does apple cider vinegar help you lose weight? ›
Does it work? Answer From Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. Apple cider vinegar isn't likely to be effective for weight loss. Proponents of apple cider vinegar claim that it has numerous health benefits and that drinking a small amount or taking a supplement before meals helps curb appetite and burn fat.
What probiotic do gynecologists recommend? ›
Lactobacillus acidophilus is the most-researched strain of probiotic when it comes to establishing and maintaining a healthy vagin*l balance. Two other important strains include lactobacillus rhamnosus and lactobacillus reuteri.
Is Align or Culturelle better? ›
Should you get Culturelle or Align probiotics? Culturelle probiotics tend to be cheaper than Align products and are ideal for those with frequent diarrhea. Additionally, Culturelle probiotics are usually soy-free, dairy-free and vegetarian, making them an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions.
Does Mayo Clinic recommend probiotics? ›
Research is ongoing into the relationship of the gut microflora to disease. The health benefits of currently available probiotics and prebiotics have not been conclusively proved. However, side effects are rare, and most healthy adults can safely add foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics to their diets.
Several strains of probiotics in both the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium family have been shown to reduce weight and belly fat. Lactobacillus gasseri appears to be one of the most effective.
What are the side effects of Lactobacillus Gasseri? ›
An increase in stomach gas or bloating may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: signs of infection (such as cough that doesn't go away, high fever, chills).
What probiotics are good for GLP 1? ›
Certain probiotic strains, such as Akkermansia muciniphila, have been shown to stimulate GLP-1 levels. Akkermansia is a novel, next generation strain that's been associated with a healthy weight, as well as with strengthening the gut lining for optimal gut health.
Does align make you lose weight? ›
While there's some suggestion that Align can aid in weight loss by improving gut health and metabolism, the concrete impact of the product on weight loss is still under investigation and may depend on individual factors such as diet, lifestyle, and specific bacterial strains.
What is the best women's probiotic to take? ›
Ritual Synbiotic+ stands out as the best probiotic for women because its unique formula combines probiotic strains clinically studied to support women's health. Plus, each delayed-release capsule contains prebiotics and postbiotics, whereas other supplements only contain probiotics.
