The impact of three distinct probiotic supplements on the gut microbiota and its metabolites in healthy adults

The effects of probiotics on the gut microbiota and microbial metabolites in healthy individuals are not well understood. Faecal and serum samples were collected at the start and end of a 3-month, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomised study with three different probiotic formulations in free-living, healthy adults. The composition of the faecal microbiota and levels of faecal and/or serum short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and bile acids (BA) were measured and the probiotic formulations were found to impart differing effects including shifts in the composition and structure of the faecal microbiota, enhanced levels of circulating short chain fatty acids such as butyrate and propionate, and elevated levels of sulphated bile acids in faeces. This was in contrast to the outcomes for the placebo population where very little change occurred over the study. These findings demonstrate that probiotic supplementation elicits formulation specific effects and that there are potential benefits for healthy individuals.