Effects of the probiotic IMC 510® on body composition, biochemical parameters, gut microbiota composition and function, and clinical symptoms of overweight/obese subjects.

BACKGROUND AND AIM

In recent decades, obesity prevalence has reached epidemic proportions and considering the pivotal role of gut microbiota (GM) in the regulation of energy balance, alternative non-pharmacological approaches involving probiotics' administration have been proposed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of IMC 510® supplementation on anthropometric and biochemical parameters, GM composition and functionality, and gastrointestinal and general symptoms of overweight/obese subjects.

METHODS

Forty overweight/obese subjects were randomly assigned to daily consume the probiotic IMC 510® or placebo for 3 months. Before and after the administration period, anthropometric and biochemical parameters, self-administered questionnaires, and plasma and stool samples were obtained from each participant. The GM characterization was performed with 16S rRNA sequencing, while fecal short (SCFAs) and medium (MCFAs) chain fatty acids were analyzed with a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry protocol.

RESULTS

Compared to placebo, probiotic supplementation determined a significant decrease in body weight, BMI, waist circumference, waist-to-height ratio, and blood glucose. Moreover, probiotic administration produced a significant decrease of the genera and and an increase of spp.; conversely, placebo administration resulted in the decrease of Actinomycetaceae and an increase of both spp. and of the levels of pro-inflammatory hexanoic and heptanoic acids.

CONCLUSION

Thanks to its effect in increasing some beneficial gut bacteria and lowering effects on waist circumference, fasting glucose levels and gastrointestinal symptoms of obese subjects, IMC 510® supplementation could represent a future and encouraging strategy for the prevention or treatment of obesity.