Effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on gut microbiota in older adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Zhuang K, Luo H, Zeng M
Published in Nutrition Journal
Methodology
Systematic review and meta-analysis of 29 randomized controlled trials of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics in adults aged 60 and over, assessing microbiota composition, short-chain fatty acids and inflammatory markers.
Key Findings
Probiotic and prebiotic supplementation increased Bifidobacterium abundance and microbial diversity in older adults, with inconsistent effects on inflammatory markers.
Conclusions
Microbiome-targeted supplementation reliably shifts gut microbiota in older adults, but inflammatory benefits remain uncertain.
Limitations
Substantial heterogeneity in strains, doses and durations; variable risk of bias; inflammatory markers were secondary outcomes.
Supplements Studied
Probiotic supplementation enhanced microbial diversity (Shannon index: SMD = 0.76).
Outcomes Measured
Probiotic supplementation enhanced microbial diversity (Shannon index: SMD = 0.76).
Study Details
Access Study
Disclosures
Funding
Not reported
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen.