Probiotics For Weight Loss: How They Help And Risk Factors

It is widely known that probiotics help in weight loss. More and more people are consuming probiotics due to the health benefits they offer. For example, they are great for digestion as they increase the number of good gut bacteria. You can source probiotics from fermented foods or from supplements. The various health benefits of consuming probiotics also contribute to weight loss.

But, how do probiotics work for weight loss? Are there any side effects? Can you consume probiotics without consulting a doctor? We have all the answers you are looking for. Read on!

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are beneficial microbes present in the gut of the human body. They are taken after an antibiotics course to replenish the bacterial growth in the gut. Fermented foods like yogurt contain these microorganisms. Probiotics are also taken in the form of supplements.

Did You Know?

More than 400 different types of bacteria live in the human digestive tract under physiological conditions and contribute to overall health.

Probiotics may not directly contribute to weight loss. However, they enhance factors that promote weight loss. Scroll down to know how they impact weight loss indirectly.

How Probiotics Help In Weight Loss

1. May Promote Digestive Health

Studies show that probiotics regenerate the digestive system with good microbes that neutralize their harmful counterparts. They ferment food and promote health (1). The beneficial microbes minimize gastrointestinal discomfort and constipation that may otherwise affect digestive health (2).

2. May Help Manage Diabetes

Studies suggest that diabetes and obesity are correlated (3).

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine in 2023 analyzed data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) spanning 2016 to 2021. The data encompassed 128,571 non-pregnant adults aged 18 years and older. Findings revealed that 62% of adults with type 1 diabetes were overweight or had obesity, mirroring rates in the general adult population in which 64% faced similar issues.

Thus, weight loss may reduce diabetes risk (4). Taking probiotics may improve insulin sensitivity and fasting blood glucose levels (results post overnight fasting) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Studies suggest that probiotics help in improving glucose levels in people with diabetes. Hence, akkermansia muciniphila, a type of probiotic bacteria, are used in type 2 diabetes treatment. Taking probiotics containing lactobacillus lactis and bifidobacterium acidophilus may also improve lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes (5 ). The beneficial microbes may also help improve glycemic control (6).

3. May Reduce The Risk Of Obesity By Burning Fat

Probiotic bacterial strains like lactobacillus fermentum and lactobacillus amylovorus may help reduce obesity risk by burning fat. Recent studies show that lactobacillus fermentum can reduce serum lipid. Similarly, lactobacillus amylovorus may reduce cholesterol levels and hydrolyze bile salts. This may effectively reduce obesity risk and indirectly promote weight loss (7). Besides, another probiotic strain called lactobacillus rhamnosus GGMCC was also found to help with weight loss (though certain other strains did not have a similar effect) (8). However, the same effect may not be observed with all the probiotics as it is strain-specific.

4. May Reduce Inflammation

An increase in body weight may lead to an increase in inflammation (9). Studies show that a combination of different probiotic bacteria such as lactobacillus gasseri, lactobacillus casei DN001, and bifidobacterium lactis may help in reducing inflammation (10). Lactobacilli (members of the lactic acid bacteria) are found to boost anti-inflammatory molecule levels. Probiotics like streptococcus thermophilus and bifidobacterium may also help treat inflammatory bowel disease (11).

5. May Promote Sleep

Studies suggest that sleeplessness increases obesity risk (12). Gut microbes play a role in mental health and sleep. Probiotic microorganisms like lactobacillus reuteri and bifidobacterium adolescentis may help improve sleep quality (13). Improved sleep, in turn, may aid weight loss.

Fun Fact

Probiotic bacteria weigh approximately 3.5 pounds in our bodies, which is greater than the weight of the brain.

However, more clear research is warranted in this regard.

Probiotics can be taken in the form of supplements or through foods rich in them. Keep scrolling to see the list of probiotic foods that you can consume.

Natural Probiotic Foods

1.Yogurt

Yogurt

is a fermented food formed by lactic acid bacteria. The probiotic lactic acid bacteria is proven to have a beneficial effect on diarrhea, bloating, and other gastrointestinal tract disorders (14). Anecdotal evidence suggests that yogurt may also aid with weight loss when made a part of a balanced diet. However, more research is warranted in this regard.

2. Soft Cheese

Gut microbiota play a major role in absorbing all nutrients. Changes in the microbiota may cause various types of gut disorders. These may be managed by consuming probiotics. Soft cheese creates a buffer from the acidic environment in the gastrointestinal tract. It generates suitable conditions for the growth of probiotics (15).

3. Sauerkraut

This is a fermented food made with chopped cabbage. This pickle contains probiotic lactic acid bacteria that improve gut microorganisms (16).

4. Kefir

Kefir

is a drink made from fermented milk (any kind). It is known to improve digestion. It may also control plasma glucose levels and act against hypertension and inflammation (17).

5. Kimchi

Kimchi is a traditional Korean side dish made from fermented vegetables, primarily cabbage and radishes, seasoned with gochujang and other spices. The primary probiotics found in kimchi are lactic acid bacteria, including genera like Leuconostoc and Lactobacillus (18). There are many remarkable kimchi benefits; its consumption may decrease the risk of obesity and balance gut microbiota leading to improved digestion, a strengthened immune system, and better skin health (19).

6. Miso

Miso is a Japanese seasoning produced by fermenting soybeans with salt, koji, and other ingredients like rice or barley. It contains various probiotics like Aspergillus oryzae and lactic acid bacteria. Aspergillus is known to have a positive impact on the intestinal bacterial flora, boosting gut health and improving digestion to aid weight loss. Lactic acid bacteria, on the other hand, may boost immune function and improve allergy symptoms (20).

Include all these probiotic foods in your diet in moderation. Avoid them if you are allergic to them. In addition, you should maintain a healthy lifestyle, hydrate your body, and ensure optimum physical activity.

Another term often used along with probiotics is prebiotics. What are prebiotics? How are they related to probiotics?

Probiotics And Prebiotics – How They May Aid Weight loss

Prebiotics are food components that are not digestible by humans but improve the gut microbiota. They stimulate the growth of gut-friendly bacteria and are a source of enrichment for probiotics. Prebiotics contain fibers that have fewer calories (21).

Mary Wirtz, a registered clinical dietitian, says prebiotic foods are rich in dietary fiber and take longer to digest. This makes individuals feel full throughout the day, helping them lose and maintain healthy body weight.

Risks Of Probiotics

Probiotic benefits are highly strain-specific. Animal studies state that streptomyces aureofaciens may instead lead to weight gain (22). Probiotics may cause systemic infections, exert a negative effect on metabolic activities, and cause excess immune stimulation in some individuals (23). Hence, take probiotics only upon medical advice.

Are Probiotic Supplements Safe For Weight loss?

Probiotic supplements for weight loss are safe but should only be consumed upon medical advice. As stated, weight loss with probiotics is strain-specific. Hence, consuming them on your own may not help. A healthy diet coupled with moderate exercise and probiotic intake may yield results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it OK to take a probiotic every day?

Yes, but in moderation. Probiotics help boost gut health and improve overall health.

What happens when you start taking probiotics?

Probiotics help boost digestion. However, you may experience gas or bloating along with it.

Do probiotics make you hungry?

According to anecdotal evidence, maybe. Some individuals may feel hungry as probiotics modulate gut microbiota and influence gut health.

Learn about the scientific basis for the role of probiotics in shedding pounds and how they can complement your weight loss regimen. Find out the proper way to include these beneficial bacteria in your daily diet.

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Raelene SolerPG, RN

 

Raelene Soler is a state registered nutritionist and has over 8 years of experience in the field of nutrition and dietetics. She also has a postgraduate degree in Nursing Studies. She works at a state hospital and the Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Department.

Read full bio of Raelene Soler

Aparna MallampalliHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Aparna is a professor-turned-content writer with over 5 years of experience in life sciences. Her passion for writing and interest in the healthcare and wellness industry pushed her toward a career in content writing. She has a master’s degree in microbiology from Osmania University, Hyderabad, and a diploma in nutrition from Fab Academy.

Read full bio of Aparna Mallampalli

Ravi Teja TadimallaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Ravi Teja Tadimalla is a Co-Editor-in-Chief and a published author. He has been in the digital media field for over a decade. He graduated from SRM University, Chennai, and has a Professional Certificate in Food, Nutrition & Research from Wageningen University.

Read full bio of Ravi Teja Tadimalla

Moksha GandhiHealth & Wellness Writer

Moksha is a health and wellness writer and a certified diet and nutrition coach. Her passion for science and writing has helped her excel in crafting evidence-based articles. Her previous experience in writing science-based research papers ensures that her articles are grounded in research and provide practical tips that are reader-focused.

Read full bio of Moksha Gandhi