GMA
The postbiotic group showed greater bowel regularity, fewer diarrhoeal episodes and less laxative use, alongside changes in inflammatory markers, red-blood-cell parameters and microbiota.
The randomised, double-blind study enrolled 48 institutionalised older adults. For eight weeks, participants received either a preparation of inactivated bacterial cells or placebo, with daily monitoring of bowel movements, gastrointestinal manifestations and laxative use.
The authors report greater regularity, fewer episodes of diarrhoea and lower reliance on laxatives in the postbiotic group. These signals were accompanied by reductions in systemic inflammatory markers, changes in red-blood-cell parameters and a microbiota profile described as more favourable.
The result is informative for the preparation that was studied, not for the category in the abstract. Sample size, care setting and duration limit transferability, and larger independent studies are needed before conclusions can be extended to other products or populations.
The study builds preparation-specific clinical evidence and highlights stability, formulation and shelf life as potential development advantages of postbiotics.
The sample was small and institutionalised. Results cannot be generalised to all older adults or other postbiotics and require independent replication.
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Read the original source · Molecular Nutrition & Food Research ↗