Probiotics are live microorganisms or bacteria that occur naturally in the gut and have several health benefits. Many supplements and foods like yogurt also contain probiotics. While it is proven that probiotics are important for our overall health, researchers are now trying to figure out whether our digestive health affects our weight too.

What science says about probiotics and weight loss
Many studies have found a connection between good gut bacteria and healthy weight, where usually obese patients tend to have more of the unhealthy gut bacteria, whereas thinner people have more of the good bacteria. However, it is still not certain if this bacteria occurs naturally in healthy people’s guts or if it is a result of their diet.

Other studies suggest that probiotics can reduce the number of calories that we absorb from food, They also affect hormones and proteins related to appetite and fat storage. Some strains of the Lactobacillus family have been shown to reduce weight and belly fat. However, it’s important to note that some probiotics can, in fact, make you gain weight instead of losing it, based on other studies. 

Focus on good nutrition
Taking probiotic supplements won’t hurt in your weight loss process, but it shouldn’t be the main area of focus because, at the end of the day, it is not a magic pill that makes you lose weight miraculously.

•Make sure you follow a proper diet plan based on real food in order to lose weight and improve the health of your gut.
•Eat at least one serving of oats a day as they are loaded with soluble fiber and help improve the movement of your bowel.
•Load up on fruits and vegetables, at least 5 servings per day.
•Make sure to eat one serving of yogurt daily to get a good dose of probiotics. 

In conclusion, although evidence is still needed to prove that probiotics have a direct effect on weight loss, there are many other reasons to take a probiotic supplement besides weight loss. They can improve digestive health and cardiovascular risk factors, reduce inflammation, and even help fight depression and anxiety. You can order our probiotic Lactibiane online now.

Christelle Bedrossian
Dietitian-Nutritionist
Beirut, Lebanon