Probiotics show promise for improving cognitive function, China meta-analysis
Probiotics could become a key tool in managing cognitive decline, according to a new systematic review and meta-analysis.
This finding could strengthen the case for the gut-brain axis as a therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, the researchers wrote in PLOS One.
The meta-analysis, conducted by Henan University, found a moderate but statistically significant improvement in cognitive function among those taking probiotics compared to placebo.
Early probiotic use in children plays protective role for obesity prevention – study
A Chinese study has highlighted the potential protective role of probiotic supplementation in infants and toddlers for preventing overweight and obesity during the preschool period.
The probiotic product studied contain Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis R0033, Bifidobacterium bifidum R0071, and Lactobacillus helveticus R0052.
Writing in Frontiers in Nutrition, the researchers also reported girls showing a lower risk of obesity compared to boys on probiotics supplementation.
Indonesian researchers identify effective probiotic regimens for bacterial vaginosis treatment
A new systematic review led by researchers at Indonesia’s Universitas Brawijaya has provided clarity on the probiotic strains, dosages, and treatment durations effective for bacterial vaginosis (BV) management and prevention.
After analysing 16 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) conducted between 2014 and 2024, the researchers have identified Lactobacillus rhamnosus TOM 22.8 as the standout strain for BV treatment.
Writing in the journal Narra J, they also reported that higher probiotic doses generally produced better results. For instance, doses of 10 billion CFUs and above led to faster symptom relief and longer-lasting protection against recurrence.
Post-meal blood glucose levels affect sleep quality - Nestle study
Post-meal blood glucose levels can directly affect sleep quality, said a new set of study findings from Nestle.
Writing in the European Journal of Nutrition, the researchers from National University of Singapore, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and Nestle reported that managing post-meal blood glucose spike could be a novel approach to improving sleep.
This is because their findings have shown that a lower post-meal blood glucose spike could significantly shorten the amount of time needed to fall asleep.
Vit D supplementation shown to play key role in post-surgical muscle recovery – review
A study in Singapore has highlighted the role of tailored vitamin D supplementation as a pre- and post-surgery intervention to support muscle recovery and reduce postoperative complications.
Writing in Nutrients, the study found that vitamin D supplementation, particularly high-dose regimens administered preoperatively or early postoperatively, has significantly improved muscle strength and functional outcomes in orthopaedic surgeries.
These include hip and knee replacements, as well as bariatric surgeries.
