Effect of Probiotic (VSL#3) and Omega-3 on Lipid Profile, Insulin Sensitivity, Inflammatory Markers, and Gut Colonization in Overweight Adults: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

Abstract

To evaluate the effects of probiotic (VSL#3) and omega-3 fatty acid on insulin sensitivity, blood lipids, and inflammation, we conducted a clinical trial in 60 overweight (BMI > 25), healthy adults, aged 40–60 years. After initial screening the subjects were randomized into four groups with 15 per group. The four groups received, respectively, placebo, omega-3 fatty acid, probiotic VSL#3, or both omega-3 and probiotic, for 6 weeks. Blood and fecal samples were collected at baseline and after 6 weeks. The probiotic (VSL#3) supplemented group had significant reduction in total cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL, and VLDL and had increased HDL (P < 0.05) value. VSL#3 improved insulin sensitivity (P < 0.01), decreased hsCRP, and favorably affected the composition of gut microbiota. Omega-3 had significant effect on insulin sensitivity and hsCRP but had no effect on gut microbiota. Addition of omega-3 fatty acid with VSL#3 had more pronounced effect on HDL, insulin sensitivity and hsCRP. Subjects with low HDL, insulin resistance, and high hsCRP had significantly lower total lactobacilli and bifidobacteria count and higher E. coli and bacteroides count.

Multiple effects of probiotics on different types of diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials

“…An abnormal metabolic profile, including impaired fasting glucose, insulin and HbA 1c , is a strong predictor of diabetes. Recently, it has been found that patients with diabetes showed an alteration in their gut microbial composition [8], which indicated that probiotics may provide a new and promising way for regulating glucose and glycemic factors through modifying gut microflora [9].…”

Effect of Body Mass Index on Lipid Profile of Type 2 Diabetic Patients at An Urban Tertiary Hospital In Nigeria

“…Elevated levels of triglyceride, cholesterol, and LDL are documented as risk factors for atherogenesis. It is noteworthy that CRP plasma levels even slightly higher from the conventional upper limit of normal (1mg/dL) have been associated with a 2-3-fold increase in risk of future myocardial infarction, stroke, and peripheral atherosclerosis among apparently healthy middle-aged men and women [4]. A worldwide epidemic exists with respect to diabetes mellitus, primarily because of increased rates of obesity.…”

Effect of Synbiotic Supplementation on Serum Systemic Inflammatory Marker and Serum Albumin in Patients Admitted to ICU

“…A dissimilar results was reported by Mc Naught et al enteral feeding of Provia, an oatmeal-based drink containing lactobacillus plantarum 299 V to critically ill patients had no significant effect on serum CRP Levels [15]. Similarly, a study on 6 Volunteers for aperiod of 6 weeks showed significant reduction in serum hs-CRP by probiotic VSL#3 treatment compared to placebo group [16]. These Controversial observation may be attributed to factors such as strains of probiotic used in the study or dosage and duration of study.…”