Elsevier

Microbial Pathogenesis

Volume 53, Issue 2, August 2012, Pages 100-108
Microbial Pathogenesis

Comparative meta-analysis of the effect of Lactobacillus species on weight gain in humans and animals

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.micpath.2012.05.007Get rights and content
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Abstract

Background

Obesity is associated with alteration of the gut microbiota. In order to clarify the effect of Lactobacillus-containing probiotics (LCP) on weight we performed a meta-analysis of clinical studies and experimental models. We intended to assess effects by Lactobacillus species.

Methods

A broad search with no date or language restriction was performed. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and comparative clinical studies in humans and animals or experimental models assessing the effect of Lactobacillus-containing probiotics on weight. We primarily attempted to extract and use change from baseline values. Data were extracted independently by two authors. Results were pooled by host and by Lactobacillus species and are summarized in a meta-analysis of standardized difference in means (SMDs).

Results

We identified and included 17 RCTs in humans, 51 studies on farm animals and 14 experimental models. Lactobacillus acidophilus administration resulted in significant weight gain in humans and in animals (SMD 0.15; 95% confidence intervals 0.05–0.25). Results were consistent in humans and animals. Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus ingluviei were associated with weight gain in animals. Lactobacillus plantarum was associated with weight loss in animals and Lactobacillus gasseri was associated with weight loss both in obese humans and in animals.

Conclusions

Different Lactobacillus species are associated different effects on weight change that are host-specific. Further studies are needed to clarify the role of Lactobacillus species in the human energy harvest and weight regulation. Attention should be drawn to the potential effects of commonly marketed lactobacillus-containing probiotics on weight gain.

Highlights

► We performed a meta-analysis on weight gain effect of Lactobacillus probiotics. ► Comparative animal and human studies were included. ► Specific Lactobacillus species were associated with a weight gain effect. ► Other specific species showed a protective effect against obesity. ► Lactobacillus probiotics impact weight regulation with a species-specific pattern.

Keywords

Probiotics
Lactobacillus
Weight
Obesity
Meta-analysis

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1

These authors contributed equally to this work.