Málaga has been the setting for research examining the effect of probiotics on people with multiple sclerosis. A team from IBIMA and the University of Málaga has published their study in the journal Clinical Nutrition.
Results of the study on probiotics
The systematic review and meta-analysis, led by Mario Gutiérrez and Carmen M.ª González, includes data from nearly 300 participants with multiple sclerosis. Their findings suggest that certain strains of probiotics could moderate fatigue and pain, as well as inflammation in patients.
This review focuses on clinical trials in humans, disregarding previous studies in animals and other methods that did not meet methodological criteria. The research aims to provide a clear insight into the potential benefits of probiotics in this neurodegenerative disease.
Importance and next phases of research
Multiple sclerosis affects the nervous system and can cause a variety of symptoms, with fatigue and pain being two of the most significant. Those who consumed probiotics showed improvements compared to the control group that received a placebo.
The intervention included different preparations, mainly with strains from the genera Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, and the researchers consider the results promising. However, they insist on the need for more studies to confirm these benefits.
The study provides evidence for the gut-brain axis, exploring how gut microbiota can influence the health of patients. Although a reduction in inflammatory markers was verified, no improvement was observed in neurological disability or overall mental health of the participants.
The study leaders point out that while probiotics may be a useful supplement, they are not a substitute for current pharmacological treatments. They also call for further research in diverse populations to validate these results, considering that many factors can affect gut microbiota and its interaction with the disease.
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