In July 2018 researchers from Iran published the results of their study to assess the effects of probiotics and synbiotics on the metabolic syndrome. 120 adults with prediabetes were divided into three groups and given either a multi-species probiotic or inulin-based synbiotic or placebo. The individuals were assessed at the start of the study, and at 12 and 24 weeks after treatment. Results showed that there were improvements in hyperglycaemia in both the probiotic and synbiotic groups, and in hypertension in the probiotic group. In addition, HDL-cholesterol levels increased in the probiotic group when compared with placebo.
Kassaian N et al. Probiotic and synbiotic supplementation could improve metabolic syndrome in prediabetic adults: A randomized controlled trial. Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2018 Jul 30. [Epub ahead of print]