Probiotics and Synbiotics May Help Reduce Body Fat and Improve Metabolic Health

A new human clinical trial published in Nutrients (read the study here) has found that specific probiotic and synbiotic supplements can support fat loss, reduce waist circumference, and improve several key traits of metabolic health — particularly in people with abdominal overweight.

The double-blind, placebo-controlled study followed 180 adults over three months. Participants were randomly divided into three groups:

1. Placebo;
2. Probiotic (containing Lactobacillus fermentum strains K7-Lb1, K8-Lb1, and K11-Lb3), and
3. Synbiotic — the same probiotic blend combined with acacia gum, a natural prebiotic fibre.

What Did the Study Find?

The results were impressive:

• Those in the probiotic group experienced a significant reduction in body fat mass, body weight, and waist circumference compared with placebo.
• The synbiotic group (probiotic + prebiotic) saw further improvements, including lower visceral fat, liver fat, and better bowel regularity.
• These effects were linked to the anti-inflammatory actions of the probiotic strains, which help balance gut bacteria and reduce low-grade inflammation — a known driver of metabolic syndrome.

In short, the combination of beneficial bacteria and prebiotic fibre (a synbiotic) had a measurable positive effect on body composition and metabolic function.

What’s the Difference Between a Probiotic and a Synbiotic?

• Probiotics are live bacteria that provide health benefits when consumed.
• Prebiotics are plant-based fibres that feed these beneficial bacteria.
• Synbiotics combine the two, helping the probiotics survive, thrive, and multiply in the gut.

This synergy can enhance digestion, improve nutrient absorption, reduce bloating, and — as shown in this study — support metabolic balance and fat reduction.

A Real-World Synbiotic Example

If you’re looking for a research-backed synbiotic, Gut Health Plus combines:

• Partially Hydrolysed Guar Gum (PHGG) — a gentle, clinically studied prebiotic fibre that supports gut balance and short-chain fatty acid production.
• Bacillus coagulans (Lactospore®) — a resilient probiotic strain known for improving digestion, immune balance, and overall microbiome health.

Together, they form a powerful synbiotic formula designed to enhance gut function, reduce digestive discomfort, and support whole-body wellness.

The Takeaway

This 2023 clinical trial reinforces what many health professionals already suspect: a balanced gut microbiome can play a major role in weight regulation and metabolic health.

Adding a quality synbiotic supplement to your daily routine — such as Gut Health Plus — may help you take a natural step toward improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and a healthier waistline.

We offer this post for educational purposes only. Please consult your healthcare practitioner for personalised advice before starting any new supplement regimen.