Microbiome-Targeted Therapies as an Adjunct to Traditional Weight Loss Interventions: A Systematic Review and...

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Microbiome Research
• Obesity Management

Background:

• Overweight and obesity are significant global health concerns requiring effective management strategies.
• The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in host metabolism and energy balance.
• Microbiome-targeted therapies, including prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics, are emerging as potential adjuncts for weight management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy of microbiome-targeted therapies as adjuncts to traditional weight loss interventions.
• To evaluate the impact of pre-, pro-, and synbiotics on anthropometric outcomes in overweight and obese adults.
• To determine if these supplements enhance weight loss beyond diet and exercise alone.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was conducted across Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register.
• Studies published between 2010 and 2020, combining microbiome supplements with dietary or exercise interventions, were included.
• Meta-analyses using random effects models assessed pooled mean differences in anthropometric outcomes for probiotics and synbiotics.

Main Results:

• Twenty-one RCTs involving 1233 participants were analyzed; prebiotics were excluded due to limited data.
• Probiotics significantly reduced body weight (-0.73 kg), fat mass (-0.61 kg), and waist circumference (-0.53 cm).
• Synbiotics significantly reduced fat mass (-1.53 kg) and waist circumference (-1.31 cm).

Conclusions:

• Microbiome-targeted supplements, particularly probiotics and synbiotics, can effectively augment weight loss and improve obesity-related anthropometric measures.
• These findings support the integration of microbiome-targeted therapies into personalized weight management plans.
• Further research may explore optimal formulations and long-term effects for diverse populations.