The Effect of Prebiotics and Probiotics (Synbiotics) on Weight Loss and Biochemical Parameters in Obese Individuals

This study examined the effects of prebiotic and probiotic (synbiotic) supplementation on weight loss and biochemical parameters in treating obesity. The study was conducted with 110 participants in Eskisehir Anadolu Hospital, Turkiye, between February 15, 2019 and February 15, 2020. Individuals with obesity, who were following a weight loss diet, were randomly assigned to two groups. While one group (the control group) followed the diet only, the other group received synbiotic tablets in the morning and evening, in addition to the diet. Anthropometric values and biochemical parameters of the patients were measured at the beginning of the study and 3 months after. A significant decrease was found in weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference values compared with baseline in both groups (P: .001; P < .05). A significant decrease was found in fasting blood sugar and HOMA-IR values compared with baseline in both groups. Furthermore, there was a significant increase in vitamin B12 and vitamin D values in the group receiving synbiotics compared with their baseline values. As a result of our study, both groups experienced similar weight loss and a decrease in BMI values. The vitamin B12 and vitamin D values of the group that took supplements increased significantly. The HOMA-IR values were significantly lower in both groups, albeit more in the synbiotic group. Changes in vitamin B12, vitamin D, and HOMA-IR values are extremely important for improving the health parameters in the long term.