Are Probiotics Effective For Weight Loss?

KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 (Bernama) -- The consumption of probiotics – supplements that contain live microorganisms or bacteria intended to maintain or improve the "good" bacteria in the body – is gaining attention in weight loss efforts.

But can these supplements, easily available online in capsule or powder form and widely promoted on social media, really help with weight loss?

Dr Deborah Chew Chia Hsin, consultant gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Hospital Canselor Tuanku Muhriz (HCTM) UKM, said while probiotics can influence gut microbiota, which plays a role in metabolism and fat digestion, their effect on weight loss has not been clearly proven.

She said studies show individuals with excess weight, obesity and diabetes often experience a condition known as gut dysbiosis, where there is a lack of healthy gut microbiota. In such cases, there is a higher percentage of harmful bacteria like Firmicutes compared to beneficial bacteria like Bacteroides, which are present at lower levels.

"In general, a healthy gut should have more beneficial bacteria than harmful bacteria.

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“However, the question remains: does this imbalance in microbiota cause obesity, or does obesity itself lead to microbiota imbalance? This is still under discussion among researchers," she said.

Dr Chew said several studies have explored the role of probiotics in managing obesity and weight loss, but the results have been mixed. Some studies found no significant benefits from probiotic supplements, while others reported slight to moderate benefits in helping with weight loss.

She added that probiotics are only effective if they contain the right bacterial strains, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and are stored properly.

"We need to remember that probiotics contain live bacteria and if they are stored at temperatures above 25°C, the bacteria may not survive. If this happens, individuals taking probiotics may not experience the expected benefits," she said, emphasising the importance of consuming the recommended dosage to avoid side effects like bloating.

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Meanwhile, Universiti Putra Malaysia dietitian Jazlina Syahrul said although probiotics have the potential to support metabolism and gut microbiota balance, they are not a primary solution or a shortcut for weight loss.

She said while some studies suggest a link between gut microbiota and metabolism, appetite and fat storage – indicating that maintaining a balance of good bacteria in the gut may support weight loss – more extensive research, however, is needed to confirm probiotics' effectiveness in this area.

"Overall, probiotics may contribute to weight loss, but their effect is minimal and slower compared to lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise. While there is some early evidence, probiotics are not a 'magic pill' for weight loss. They serve as additional support rather than a substitute for a balanced diet and consistent exercise," she said.

Jazlina also advised individuals to evaluate other factors such as calorie intake, eating patterns, exercise optimisation and sufficient sleep if their weight loss efforts have not been successful.

"They might be consuming hidden calories or following an overly restrictive diet... or maybe a lack of sleep," she added.

-- BERNAMA