Role of probiotics in modulating glucose homeostasis: evidence from animal and human studies

Abstract

Aim: Evidences from several studies suggest that probiotics affect glucose homeostasis. This paper reviews the results of animal and human studies on the role of probiotics in modulating glucose homeostasis. Method: A systematic literature search using multiple databases was conducted without time limitation. Primary outcomes evaluated were parameters related to glucose homeostasis. Secondary outcomes were inflammatory markers, lipid profile, body weight, and energy intake. Results: A total of 17 animal studies and four human studies were identified. Among these, 16 animal studies and three human studies had documented significant improvements in at least one glucose homeostasis related parameter. Inflammatory markers and lipid profile were significantly improved in the animal model, while data from human studies were controversial. Changes in body weight and energy intake that could be due to probiotics supplementation were also inconclusive. Conclusion: Well-designed placebo-controlled clinical trials with validated outcome variables are needed to determine the effect of probiotics on glucose homeostasis.