Gut bacteria have been associated with obesity, leading some to theorize that altering the gut microbiome to mirror that of a healthy individual may promote weight loss. However, this reasoning is somewhat flawed, as it remains uncertain whether gut bacteria directly contribute to obesity. Scientific reviews have yielded mixed findings regarding the impact of probiotics on weight loss. In 2015, researchers identified only four rigorously conducted studies examining probiotics’ effects on weight reduction and concluded that they were ineffective. Conversely, a more recent review from last year analyzed 25 randomized human trials and suggested that probiotics might have a modest effect on body weight and BMI. Although the weight loss observed was minimal, the researchers argued that even a slight average reduction could greatly benefit public health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Ongoing research is exploring various strains of probiotics, their differential effects on individuals, and methods to ensure that probiotics survive the digestive process before reaching the gut. The probiotic market is booming in the United States, valued at approximately $36.6 billion in 2015, with most sales occurring through functional foods and beverages, according to Global Market Insights. There is also increasing interest in probiotic supplements, which are touted as remedies for a range of issues from digestive disorders to acne and depression. These claimed health benefits are strain-specific, meaning consumers must be well-informed about what they are taking. Given the rising acceptance of probiotics in supplement form, their application for weight loss appears promising.
The North American market for weight loss and management products is the largest globally, accounting for roughly one-third of worldwide sales of weight loss products, according to Technavia. The bulk of its revenue is derived from meal replacement items and weight loss supplements. Additionally, products like calcium citrate tablets at 500mg price points are becoming popular among consumers looking for health solutions. As the market for weight management continues to expand, the integration of probiotics alongside other health supplements, like calcium citrate tablets, may provide a comprehensive approach to weight loss and overall wellness.