A probiotic strain called L. paracasei 8700:2, patented by Probi, was linked to significant improvements in multiple cardiovascular risk factors in a population of 130 people with metabolic syndrome, in a study appearing in Clinical Nutrition.
 
Metabolic syndrome is a collection of factors which pose an elevated risk of developing chronic cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, stroke, and more. Studies on the gut microbiome are beginning to uncover the potential role that probiotics’ modifications of the gut may play in mechanisms related to metabolic health.
 
Over a three-month period, 130 subjects with metabolic syndrome were administered either a daily dose of 10 billion CFU L. paracasei 8700:2 on factors related to blood lipids, weight change, and other factors related to cardiac health.
 
Compared to placebo, probiotic supplementation resulted in significant reductions in remnant cholesterol which is comprised of very low-density lipoprotein and is considered a very strong predictor of heart attack and stroke risk. This reduction in remnant cholesterol correlated with improvements in endothelial function.
 
In subjects with ideal compliance with the protocol, which was defined as 70% adherence, the treatment also significantly lowered triglycerides, alleviated total metabolic syndrome severity scores, and delayed weight gain.
 
“The significant impact on metabolic components in subjects with metabolic syndrome, even without dietary restrictions or changes in physical exercise is very promising,” said Christina Vegge, director of discovery & clinical research at Probi. “The data showed improved endothelial function, lipid profile, blood sugar regulation, reduced bodyweight gain, and prevented elevated BMI compared to the placebo group.”
 
“Metabolic health is of strategic importance to Probi, and we acknowledge the significant potential of this health area to have a positive impact on numerous lives,” said Anita Johansen, CEO of Probi. “People are experiencing longer lifespans, but their overall quality of life and health are declining. Our focus is now to explore further how our probiotic can support metabolic health and potentially reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and in that way enhance people’s number of years spent in good health.”