Probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics in childhood diarrhea.

Acute diarrhea is the second leading cause of morbidity and mortality attributed to infections in children under five years of age worldwide, with 1.7 million annual estimated cases and more than 500,000 deaths. Although hydroelectrolytic replacement is the gold standard in treating diarrhea, it does not interfere with the restoration of the intestinal microbiota. Several studies have searched for an adequate alternative in restructuring intestinal homeostasis, finding that treatments based on probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics are effective, which made such treatments increasingly present in clinical practice by reducing illness duration with minimal side effects. However, there are still controversies regarding some unwanted reactions in patients. The diversity of strains and the peculiarities of the pathogens that cause diarrhea require further studies to develop effective protocols for prevention and treatment. Here, we provide a descriptive review of childhood diarrhea, emphasizing treatment with probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics.

Evaluation of the efficacy of probiotic VSL#3 and synbiotic VSL#3 and yacon-based product in reducing oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in mice induced to colorectal carcinogenesis.

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 isolated or associated with a yacon-based product (synbiotic) on oxidative stress modulation and intestinal permeability in an experimental model of colorectal carcinogenesis. Forty-five C57BL/6J mice were divided into three groups: control (standard diet AIN-93 M); probiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M and multispecies probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU), and synbiotic (standard diet AIN-93 M with yacon-based product, 6% fructooligosaccharides and inulin, and probiotic VSL#3, 2.25 × 109 CFU). The experimental diets were provided for 13 weeks. The probiotic and the yacon-based product showed antioxidant activity, with the percentage of DPPH radical scavenging equal to 69.7 ± 0.4% and 74.3 ± 0.1%, respectively. These findings contributed to reduce hepatic oxidative stress: the control group showed higher concentration of malondialdehyde (1.8-fold, p = 0.007 and 1.5-fold, p = 0.035) and carbonylated protein (2-fold, p = 0.008 and 5.6-fold, p = 0.000) compared to the probiotic and synbiotic groups, respectively. Catalase enzyme activity increased 1.43-fold (p = 0.014) in synbiotic group. The crypt depth increased 1.2-fold and 1.4-fold with the use of probiotic and synbiotic, respectively, compared to the control diet (p = 0.000). These findings corroborate the reduction in intestinal permeability in the probiotic and synbiotic groups, as measured by the percentage of urinary lactulose excretion (CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × PRO: 0.44 ± 0.05%, p = 0.048; and CON: 0.93 ± 0.62% × SYN: 0.41 ± 0.12%, p = 0.043). In conclusion, the probiotic and synbiotic showed antioxidant activity, which contributed to the reduction of oxidative stress markers. In addition, they protected the mucosa from damage caused by chemical carcinogen and reduced intestinal permeability. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The relationship between intestinal health and the occurrence of various organic disorders has been demonstrated in many studies. The use of probiotics and prebiotics is currently one of the main targets for modulation of intestinal health. We demonstrated that the use of a commercial mix of probiotic bacteria (VSL#3) isolated or associated with a yacon-based prebiotic, rich in fructooligosaccharides and inulin, is able to reduce the oxidative stress and intestinal permeability in a colorectal carcinogenesis model. These compounds have great potential to be used as a food supplement, or as ingredients in the development of food products.

The effect of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics on metabolic outcomes in individuals with diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

AIMS/HYPOTHESIS: The aim was to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled clinical trials assessing the effect of probiotic, prebiotic or synbiotic supplementation on gut microbiota and glucose control and lipid levels in individuals with diabetes. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library were searched. The eligibility criteria for the studies was involvement of participants with a diagnosis of type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Metabolic outcomes (glucose control, insulinaemia, and lipid profile) of any probiotic, prebiotic or synbiotic supplementation related to modification of gut microbiota (prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics) were analysed. We provided a narrative synthesis and meta-analysis of the findings on metabolic outcomes from the studies. Metabolic outcomes were extracted post-intervention and expressed as mean differences (MDs) and 95% CIs between treatment and comparator groups. We pooled the results using a random-effects meta-analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted using Review Manager (RevMan) software. RESULTS: After the removal of duplicates and ineligible studies, 5219 studies were retained for review of titles and abstracts. The number of articles was reduced to 130 by review, for which the full-text articles were obtained and reassessed, 38 of which were included in the final meta-analysis. Overall, the use of prebiotics, probiotics or synbiotics reduced HbA1c levels, but did not reach the threshold for significance (-2.17 mmol/mol, 95% CI -4.37, 0.03; p = 0.05, [-0.20%, 95% CI -0.40 to 0.00; p = 0.05, I2 = 66%]) and had no effect on LDL-cholesterol levels (-0.05 mmol/l; 95% CI -0.14, 0.05, p = 0.35, I2 = 37%). However, their consumption decreased levels of fasting blood glucose (-0.58 mmol/l; 95% CI -0.86, -0.30; p < 0.01, I2 = 60%), total cholesterol (-0.14 mmol/l; 95% CI -0.26, -0.02, p = 0.02, I2 = 39%), triacylglycerols (-0.11 mmol/l; 95% CI -0.20, -0.02, p = 0.01, I2= 21%) and insulinaemia (-10.51 pmol/l; 95% CI -16.68,-4.33, p < 0.01, I2 = 74%), and increased HDL-cholesterol levels (0.04 mmol/l; 95% CI 0.01, 0.07, p < 0.01, I2= 24%). CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION: In individuals with diabetes mellitus, supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics improved metabolic variables, although the magnitude of this effect is low. Our results suggest that consumption of probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics may be a potential adjuvant treatment for improving metabolic outcomes. REGISTRATION: PROSPERO ID CRD42017080071. Graphical abstract.

Microbiota and Diabetes Mellitus: Role of Lipid Mediators.

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is an inflammatory clinical entity with different mechanisms involved in its physiopathology. Among these, the dysfunction of the gut microbiota stands out. Currently, it is understood that lipid products derived from the gut microbiota are capable of interacting with cells from the immune system and have an immunomodulatory effect. In the presence of dysbiosis, the concentration of lipopolysaccharides (LPS) increases, favoring damage to the intestinal barrier. Furthermore, a pro-inflammatory environment prevails, and a state of insulin resistance and hyperglycemia is present. Conversely, during eubiosis, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) is fundamental for the maintenance of the integrity of the intestinal barrier as well as for immunogenic tolerance and appetite/satiety perception, leading to a protective effect. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that alterations or dysregulation of the gut microbiota can be reversed by modifying the eating habits of the patients or with the administration of prebiotics, probiotics, and symbiotics. Similarly, different studies have demonstrated that drugs like Metformin are capable of modifying the composition of the gut microbiota, promoting changes in the biosynthesis of LPS, and the metabolism of SCFA.

Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and Agave Inulin in Children with Cerebral Palsy and Chronic Constipation: A Double-Blind Randomized Placebo Controlled Clinical Trial.

The main objective was to assess the efficacy of a probiotic (Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938), a prebiotic (agave inulin), and a synbiotic on the stool characteristics in children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation. Thirty-seven children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation were included. The probiotic group received 1 × 108 colony forming unit (cfu) of L. reuteri DSM 17938 plus placebo, the prebiotic group received 4 g of agave inulin plus placebo, the synbiotic group received L. reuteri DSM 17938 plus agave inulin, and the placebo group received two placebos for 28 days. The probiotic group showed a significant decrease in stool pH (p = 0.014). Stool consistency improved in the prebiotic group (p = 0.008). The probiotic, prebiotic, and synbiotic groups showed a significant improvement in the history of excessive stool retention, the presence of fecal mass in the rectum, and the history of painful defecation. L. reuteri concentration in feces was higher in the probiotic group than in the placebo group (p = 0.001) and showed an inverse correlation with stool pH in the probiotic group (r = -0.762, p = 0.028). This study showed that the use of L. reuteri DSM 17938 and/or agave inulin improved the stool characteristics such as the history of painful defecation and the presence of fecal mass in the rectum against placebo in children with cerebral palsy and chronic constipation.

Synbiotics administration leads to attenuated mucosal inflammatory neutrophil infiltration and increased hematocrit in experimental ulcerative colitis.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to estimate the effects of synbiotics on laboratory, macroscopic, and histopathologic features in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) experimental colitis. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 40 Wistar rats received 5% of DSS in their drinking water for 8 days to induce ulcerative colitis (UC). Eight rats were sacrificed to confirm the presence of UC. The remaining rats were randomly assigned to two groups: the synbiotics group, which received synbiotics once per day and the control group, which received tap water for another 8 days. RESULTS: On the 8th day of DSS administration animals developed UC with bloody diarrhea. In the majority of the hematologic variables studied (hemoglobin [HB], red blood cells, platelets, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular HB), in bodyweight and histopathologic colitis score there was no significant difference between groups. However, the synbiotics group, compared to control, presented a significantly greater colon length on the 4th day, significantly increased hematocrit (HT) on the 8th day, and a significantly decreased number of myeloperoxidase positive cells on the 8th day. Furthermore, there was a trend toward histopathological and clinical improvement. CONCLUSIONS: Administration of synbiotics in the experimental UC results in an attenuation of mucosal inflammatory neutrophil infiltration and an increase in HT.

OBJETIVO: Estimar los efectos de los simbióticos en la colitis experimental causada por dextrano sulfato de sodio (DSS). MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Cuarenta ratas Wistar recibieron DSS al 5% en su agua de beber por 8 días para inducir colitis ulcerosa (CU). Ocho ratas fueron sacrificadas para confirmar la presencia de CU. Las ratas restantes fueron asignadas aleatoriamente a dos grupos: un grupo que recibió simbióticos una vez al día y un grupo control que recibió agua del grifo por 8 días. RESULTADOS: En el octavo día de la administración de DSS los animales desarrollaron CU con diarrea sanguinolenta. En la mayoría de las variables hematológicas estudiadas (hemoglobina, glóbulos rojos, plaquetas, volumen corpuscular medio, hemoglobina corpuscular media), en el peso corporal y en la clasificación histopatológica de la CU no hubo diferencias significativas entre los grupos. Sin embargo, el grupo con simbióticos, en comparación con el grupo control, presentó una longitud del colon más larga en el cuarto día, un hematocrito muy aumentado en el octavo día y un número de células mieloperoxidasa positivas significativamente reducido en el octavo día. Además, hubo una tendencia hacia un mejoramiento histopatológico y clínico. CONCLUSIONES: La administración de simbióticos en la CU experimental tiene como resultado una atenuación de la infiltración inflamatoria de neutrófilos de la mucosa y un aumento del hematocrito.

EFFECTS OF SYNBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION ON GUT FUNCTIONING AND SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION OF COMMUNITY-DWELLING ELDERS - SECONDARY ANALYSES FROM A RANDOMIZED CLINICAL TRIAL.

BACKGROUND: Aging is a complex process marked by alterations on gut functioning and physiology, accompanied by an increase on the inflammatory status, leading to a scenario called "inflammaging". OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a synbiotic substance on systemic inflammation, gut functioning of community-dwelling elders. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis from a randomized clinical trial, lasting 24 weeks, including 49 elders, distributed into two groups: SYN (n=25), which received a synbiotic substance (Frutooligossacaride 6g, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC-31 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM 109 to 108 UFC e Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 109 to 108 UFC), or PLA (n=24), receiving placebo. The evaluations consisted of serum IL-10 e TNF-α (after overnight fasting), evaluation of chronic constipation (by Rome III Criteria) and faeces types (by Bristol Stool Form Scale). Data were compared before and after the supplementation time, and between groups. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between baseline and final values of serum inflammatory markers. Some subtle beneficial changes were observed in SYN, concerning both gut functioning and faeces types. CONCLUSION: From our data, synbiotic supplementation showed a subtle benefit in gut functioning in apparently healthy community-dwelling elders. Our findings can suggest that the benefits in healthy individuals were less expressive than the ones presented in studies with individuals previously diagnosed as dysbiosis. Future studies, comparing elders with and without gut dysbiosis can confirm our findings.

Efeitos da suplementação com simbióticos sobre a função intestinal e a inflamação sistêmica de idosos inseridos na comunidade - análises secundárias de um estudo clínico-randomizado / Effects of synbiotic supplementation on gut functioning and systemic inflammation of community-dwelling elders - secondary analyses from a randomized clinical trial

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Aging is a complex process marked by alterations on gut functioning and physiology, accompanied by an increase on the inflammatory status, leading to a scenario called "inflammaging". OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a synbiotic substance on systemic inflammation, gut functioning of community-dwelling elders. METHODS: This is a secondary analysis from a randomized clinical trial, lasting 24 weeks, including 49 elders, distributed into two groups: SYN (n=25), which received a synbiotic substance (Frutooligossacaride 6g, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC-31 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM 109 to 108 UFC e Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 109 to 108 UFC), or PLA (n=24), receiving placebo. The evaluations consisted of serum IL-10 e TNF-α (after overnight fasting), evaluation of chronic constipation (by Rome III Criteria) and faeces types (by Bristol Stool Form Scale). Data were compared before and after the supplementation time, and between groups. RESULTS: No significant differences were found between baseline and final values of serum inflammatory markers. Some subtle beneficial changes were observed in SYN, concerning both gut functioning and faeces types. CONCLUSION: From our data, synbiotic supplementation showed a subtle benefit in gut functioning in apparently healthy community-dwelling elders. Our findings can suggest that the benefits in healthy individuals were less expressive than the ones presented in studies with individuals previously diagnosed as dysbiosis. Future studies, comparing elders with and without gut dysbiosis can confirm our findings.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: O envelhecimento é um processo complexo marcado por alterações no funcionamento e fisiologia intestinais, acompanhado de alterações no estado inflamatório, o que leva ao quadro denominado inflammaging. OBJETIVO: Avaliar os efeitos de uma substância simbiótica sobre o funcionamento intestinal e a inflamação sistêmica de idosos inseridos na comunidade. MÉTODOS: Trata-se de uma análise secundária de um estudo clínico randomizado, com 24 meses de duração, que incluiu 49 idosos, distribuídos em dois grupos: SIM (n=25), que receberam uma substância simbiótica (Frutooligossacaride 6g, Lactobacillus paracasei LPC-31 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001 109 to 108 UFC, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM 109 to 108 UFC e Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 109 to 108 UFC), ou PLA (n=24), que receberam placebo. As avaliações foram realizadas antes e após o período de suplementação, e incluíram: concentrações de IL-10 e TNF-α no soro (após uma noite de jejum); investigação de constipação crônica (pelo Critério de Roma III) e dos tipos de fezes (pela Escala de Bristol). Os dados foram comparados entre antes e após a suplementação, e entre os grupos. RESULTADOS: Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas entre valores iniciais e finais nos marcadores de inflamação; alguns benefícios sutis foram observados no grupo SIM, no funcionamento intestinal e nos tipos de fezes. CONCLUSÃO: A suplementação com simbióticos mostrou um benefício sutil nessa população. Nossos resultados apontam que idosos aparentemente saudáveis não se beneficiam tanto da suplementação de simbióticos quanto pessoas previamente identificadas com disbiose. Estudos futuros, comparando idosos com e sem disbiose poderão confirmar esses achados.

Respuesta de las citocinas a la combinación de simbióticos y lactoferrina en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer: ensayo controlado aleatorizado / Cytokine responses to symbiotic and lactoferrin combination in very low birth weight neonates: a randomized control trial

Introducción. Los probióticos y prebióticos presentan beneficios potenciales en la inflamacióncrónica de las mucosas, incluida la prevención de la enterocolitis necrosante. No obstante, los mecanismos y resultados de estos efectos inmunomoduladores son confusos. El objetivo fue investigar la respuesta de las citocinas a Lactobacillus y Bifidobacterium asociados con fructo- y galactooligosacáridos (simbióticos) y lactoferrina en recién nacidos de muy bajo peso al nacer.Población y métodos. Se asignó aleatoriamente a lactantes con ≤32 semanas de gestación y ≤1500 g de peso para recibir simbióticos o 1 ml de agua destilada como placebo desde la primera alimentación hasta el alta. Se obtuvieron muestras de sangre los días posnatales 0 ± 2, 14 ± 2 y 28 ± 2, y se midieron interferón-γ, interleucina (IL)-5, IL-10 e IL-17A.Resultados. En el grupo del estudio (n = 25), la concentración de IL-10 disminuyó a lo largo del estudio (p = 0,011), pero no cambió en el grupo de referencia. La concentración de IL-5 se mantuvo constante los primeros 14 días y luego disminuyó significativamente (p= 0,042) en el grupo del estudio, mientras que aumentó en los primeros 14 días (p = 0,019) y luego disminuyó en 28 días (p = 0,011) en el grupo de referencia (n = 25).La concentración de otras citocinas no cambió a lo largo del estudio.Conclusión. El uso combinado de probióticos con oligosacáridos y lactoferrina estuvo asociado con una disminución en la concentración de IL-10, pero no se observó un cambio en las otras citocinas.

Introduction. Probiotics and prebiotics, which are multifunctional agents, have potential benefits in chronic mucosal inflammation, including the prevention of necrotizing enterocolitis. However, the mechanisms and the results of these immunomodulatory effects are not clear. This study aimed to investigate the cytokine response to the combination of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium together with fructo- and galacto-oligosaccharides (symbiotic) and lactoferrin in very low birth weight neonates.Population and Methods. Infants ≤ 32 GWs and ≤ 1,500 g were randomly assigned to receive a symbiotic combination or 1 ml distilled water as placebo starting with the first feed until discharge. Blood samples were obtained at postnatal 0 ± 2, 14 ± 2, and 28 ± 2 days, and the serum levels of interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-5, IL-10, and IL-17A were measured.Results. In the study group (n = 25), the IL-10 levels decreased throughout the study period (p = 0.011) but did not change in the control group. The IL-5 levels remained steady in the first 14 days and decreased significantly thereafter (p = 0.042) in the study group, whereas they increased in the first 14 days (p = 0.019), and then decreased in 28 days (p = 0.011) in the control group (n = 25). The levels of the other cytokines did not change throughout the study period.Conclusion.The combined use of probiotics with oligosaccharides and lactoferrin was associated with a decrease in IL-10 levels, but no change was observed in the other cytokines.

Synbiotic supplementation, systemic inflammation, and symptoms of brain disorders in elders: A secondary study from a randomized clinical trial.

Objectives: We aimed to investigate the effect of a symbiotic substance on symptoms of brain disorders and inflammation in the elderly.Methods: Forty-nine elders, both genders, assigned into two groups: S-group (synbiotic) and P-group (placebo). Evaluations at the beginning and at the end of the experiment: geriatric depressive symptoms scale-15 (GDS-15); mini-mental status examination (MMSE); % of body fat (%fat); serum IL-6, TNF-α and IL-10; serum diamine-oxidase (DAO), intestinal fatty-acid binding protein (IFABP), and lipopolysaccharide (LPS).Results: Both groups had reduced their %Fat, TNF-α, and DAO. The IL-6, GDS-15, and MMSE were increased in both groups. IL-10 was significantly increased only in the S-group, and LPS was significantly reduced only in the P-group. The GDS-15final was negatively explained by DAO, IL-10, TNF-α, %Fat, being woman, and being allocated in the P-group. The variables that positively explained the GDS-15final were the IL-6, the IFABP, and the LPS. MMSEfinal was positively associated with the IL-10, DAO, being woman, and being allocated in the P-group; and negatively associated with IL-6, TNF-α, %Fat, IFABP, and LPS.Conclusions: We found weak effects of symbiotic on depressive symptoms and more optimistic effects on cognition in apparently healthy elderly. Other studies, with individuals diagnosed with depressive morbidity or cognitive decline, are needed.Registration of Clinical Studies - REBEC (RBR-6qr9xx)].

Efficacy of Synbiotics to Reduce Symptoms and Rectal Inflammatory Response in Acute Radiation Proctitis: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial.

Purpose: Evaluate whether the daily intake of synbiotics improves symptoms and rectal/systemic inflammatory response in patients with radiation-induced acute proctitis.Methods and Materials: Twenty patients who underwent three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for prostate cancer were randomized to intake either a synbiotic powder containing Lactobacillus reuteri (108 CFU) and soluble fiber (4.3 g) or placebo. EORTC QLQ-PRT23 questionnaire was applied before the beginning of radiotherapy and after the fifth, sixth, and seventh weeks of treatment, and the sum of both the complete (proctitis symptoms plus quality of life) and partial (proctitis symptoms) scores were compared. Fecal calprotectin was measured at Day 0 and in the fourth week of treatment, and serum C-reactive protein/albumin ratio were measured in the fourth week of treatment.Results: Both the complete and partial questionnaire score (median and range) were higher in the fifth and sixth weeks in the placebo group; there was a higher increase in fecal calprotectin in the placebo group and no difference comparing CRP/albumin ratio.Conclusions: Synbiotics reduce proctitis symptoms and improve quality of life by preventing rectal inflammation during radiotherapy for prostate cancer.

Suplementação para controle de diarreia em idosos hospitalizados com nutrição enteral / Supplementation for diarrhea control in hospitalized geriatric patients on enteral nutrition

OBJETIVO: Comparar resultados da suplementação com prebiótico, probiótico e simbiótico para o controle da diarreia em pacientes idosos recebendo terapia nutricional enteral durante o internamento em um hospital escola de Curitiba, Paraná. MÉTODOS: O estudo foi retrospectivo, por análise de prontuários correspondentes aos atendimentos realizados entre 2014 e 2018. RESULTADOS: Obteve-se um total de 75 pacientes. O tempo de ocorrência de diarreia variou de 1 a 16 dias, sendo a média de 2,69 dias após a instituição de terapêutica para restabelecimento da microbiota intestinal. Quanto às terapias instituídas, foram encontradas oito possíveis prescrições de suplementos isolados e/ou combinados, como primeira escolha. Dos pacientes analisados, 52% trocaram de suplementação ao longo da ocorrência da diarreia; alguns chegando a utilizar até cinco diferentes produtos. Dos 48% de pacientes que utilizaram um único produto/combinação do início ao fim da diarreia, de modo geral iniciaram com uma dose maior e foram diminuindo ao longo do tempo, sendo que os que começaram com uma dose menor tiveram que aumentá-la para interromper a diarreia. Além disso, houve significância estatística quando comparado o tempo de diarreia entre pacientes que receberam um único produto/combinação e os que fizeram trocas de suplemento ao longo do tratamento. CONCLUSÃO: Estabelecer uma prescrição única, seja de produtos isolados ou combinados, e permanecer com ela, além de iniciar com uma dose maior, parece mais efetivo no controle da diarreia em idosos hospitalizados, reforçando a importância de se estabelecer um protocolo para prescrição.

OBJECTIVE: To compare results of prebiotic, probiotic and synbiotic supplementation for the control of diarrhea in older patients receiving enteral nutritional therapy during hospitalization at a school hospital in Curitiba, state of Paraná. METHODS: The study was retrospective, by analysis of medical records corresponding to the visits performed between 2014 and 2018. RESULTS: A total of 75 patients were analyzed. The time of occurrence of diarrhea ranged from 1 to 16 days, with a mean of 2.69 days after the onset of therapy for reestablishment of the intestinal microbiota. As for the therapies introduced, 8 possible prescriptions of isolated and / or combined supplements were found as the first choice. Of the patients analyzed, 52% switched from supplementation during the occurrence of diarrhea; some using up to 5 different products. Of the 48% of patients who used a single product / combination from the beginning to the end of diarrhea, they generally started with a higher dose and decreased over time, with those starting at a lower dose having to increase it to stop diarrhea. In addition, there was statistical significance when comparing the time of diarrhea between patients who received a single product / combination and those who did supplemental exchanges throughout the treatment. CONCLUSION: Establishing a single prescription, whether of isolated or combined products and sticking to it, besides starting with a higher dose, seems more effective in controlling diarrhea in hospitalized geriatric patients, reinforcing the importance of establishing a protocol for prescription.

Mineral composition, histomorphometry, and bone biomechanical properties are improved with probiotic, prebiotic, and symbiotic supplementation in rats chronically exposed to passive smoking: a randomized pre-clinical study / Composição mineral, histomorfometria e propriedades biomecânicas óssea são melhoradas com a suplementação de probióticos, prebióticos e simbióticos em ratos expostos cronicamente ao tabagismo passivo: estudo pré-clínico randomizado

Cigarette smoke in large centers is one of the most important causes of chronic inflammatory diseases in public health and is associated with a decrease in bone mass, consolidation process, and bone remodeling. Due to their ability to improve intestinal absorption and compete with pathogenic microorganisms, dietary supplementation with functional foods may contribute to improvement in bone quality. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of functional, probiotic, prebiotic, or symbiotic food supplementation on mineral composition, histomorphometry, and bone biomechanical properties of rats in the growth phase, chronically exposed to cigarette smoke (T).Sixty-four young male rats were randomly assigned to eight groups (n=8): control (C) [standard diet (SD)]; probiotic (Pro) [SD + probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterococcus faecium, Bifidobacterium thermophilum and Bifidobacterium longum) (2-5 109 UFC each)]; prebiotic (Pre) [SD+ prebiotic (mannan oligosaccharide)]; symbiotic (Sym) (SD + probiotic + prebiotic); control smoking (SC) [(SD + exposure protocol to passive smoking (PS)]; probiotic smoking (ProS) (SD + probiotic + PS); prebiotic smoking (PreS) (SD + prebiotic + PS), and symbiotic smoking (SymS)(SD + prebiotic + probiotic + PS). The animals were euthanized after 189 days of the experimental protocol. Results showed that supplementation with probiotics, prebiotics, and symbiotics significantly improved (P<0.05) the parameters: P, Ca, Mg, BMD, BMC, strength, resilience, and size of area of the femoral diaphysis of the animals chronically exposed or not cigarette smoke. We concluded that functional food supplementation improved the bone health of rats chronically exposed or not to cigarette smoke.(AU)

A fumaça de cigarro em grandes centros é uma das causas mais importantes de doenças inflamatórias crônicas em saúde pública e esta associada à diminuição de massa óssea, processo de consolidação e remodelação óssea. Os alimentos funcionais suplementados na dieta, devido sua capacidade de melhorar a absorção intestinal e competir com microrganismos patógenos, podem contribuir para a melhora da qualidade óssea. Portanto, o objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da suplementação de alimentos funcionais, probiótico, prebiótico ou simbiótico, na composição mineral, histomorfometria e nas propriedades biomecânicas ósseas de ratos em fase de crescimento expostos cronicamente a fumaça do cigarro (T). Sessenta e quatro ratos machos jovens foram randomicamente distribuídos em oito grupos (n=8): controle (C) [dieta basal (DB)]; probiótico (Pro) [DB + probiótico (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Enterecoccusfaecium, Bifidobacterium thermophilumandBifidobacterium longum (2-5 109 UFC cada)]; prebiótico (Pre) [DB + prebiótico (mananoligossacarídeo)]; simbiótico (Sym) (DB + probiótico + prebiótico); controle fumante (CS) [(DB + protocolo de exposição ao tabagismo passivo(PT)]; probiótico fumante (ProS) (DB + probiótico + PT); prebiótico fumante (PreS) (DB + prebiótico + PT); e simbiótico fumante (SymS) (DB + prebiótico + probiótico + PT). Os animais foram mortos após 189 dias de período experimental.Os resultados revelaram que a suplementação com probióticos, prebióticos e simbióticos melhoraram significativamente (P<0,05) os parâmetros: P, Ca, Mg, DMO, CMO, resistência, resiliência e tamanho da área das diáfises dos fêmures dos animais expostos, cronicamente ou não, a fumaça do cigarro. Os resultados permitem concluir que a suplementação dos alimentos funcionais melhorou a saúde óssea de ratos expostos cronicamente ou não a fumaça do cigarro.(AU)

Effects of oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics in overweight and obese adults: a systematic review and meta-analyses of randomized trials.

CONTEXT: Recent evidence suggests that modulation of the gut microbiota may contribute to body weight control. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to assess the effects of oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics on body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference in overweight and obese adults (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). DATA SOURCES: Five electronic databases-PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library/CENTRAL, LILACS, and Web of Science-were searched from inception to August 2017. No language restrictions were applied. STUDY SELECTION: Randomized and quasi-randomized parallel trials that assessed the effects of oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics vs any other intervention but bariatric surgery or fecal transplantation in overweight or obese adults were selected. DATA EXTRACTION: Three teams of 2 authors independently assessed risk of bias and extracted data from the included trials. Data were pooled using inverse-variance random-effects meta-analyses. The quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system. RESULTS: Nineteen randomized trials (28 publications, 1412 participants) were included. There were no differences in mean body weight change [mean difference (MD), -0.54 kg; 95%CI, -1.09 to 0.01; I2 = 0%; moderate quality of evidence) or mean BMI change (MD, -0.19 kg/m2; 95%CI, -0.43 to 0.04; I2 = 51%; low quality of evidence) between groups who received probiotics or synbiotics and control groups. Oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics reduced mean waist circumference compared with control (MD, -0.82 cm; 95%CI, -1.43 to -0.21; I2 = 46%; low quality of evidence). CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that oral supplementation with probiotics or synbiotics has a small effect to reduce waist circumference but no effect on body weight or BMI, although the quality of evidence is low to moderate. Therefore, the current evidence is not definitive. Large-scale trials are needed and may help to better inform clinical practice. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number CRD42018075126.

Uso de simbióticos na dieta dos equinos

Somos constantemente procurados por colegas e proprietári- os questionando o que há de, efetivamente, mais moderno na suplementação dietética de equinos. Muito se tem observado e diversos produtos estão à disposição no mercado para atender a demanda nutricional dos cavalos. Entretanto, para quem é adep- to de saúde do animal acima de tudo, pouca coisa efetivamente traz resultados e novidades para a fisiologia do cavalo.

Uso de simbióticos na dieta dos equinos

Somos constantemente procurados por colegas e proprietári- os questionando o que há de, efetivamente, mais moderno na suplementação dietética de equinos. Muito se tem observado e diversos produtos estão à disposição no mercado para atender a demanda nutricional dos cavalos. Entretanto, para quem é adep- to de saúde do animal acima de tudo, pouca coisa efetivamente traz resultados e novidades para a fisiologia do cavalo.(AU)

Oral administration of Simbioflora® (synbiotic) attenuates intestinal damage in a mouse model of 5-fluorouracil-induced mucositis.

The use of probiotics to prevent or treat mucosal inflammation has been studied; however, the combined effect of probiotics and prebiotics is unclear. The aim of this study was to test whether oral administration of a synbiotic (Simbioflora®) preparation containing Lactobacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis plus fructooligosaccharide could help control mucosal inflammation in experimental mucositis induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU). Male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into six groups: control (CTL), control + prebiotic (CTL+P), control + synbiotic (CTL+S), mucositis (MUC), mucositis + prebiotic (MUC+P), and mucositis + synbiotic (MUC+S). Mice from the CTL+S, MUC+S, CTL+P, and MUC+P groups received synbiotic or prebiotic daily by oral gavage for 13 days. Mice in the CTL and MUC groups received the same volume of saline. On day 11, mice in the MUC, MUC+P, and MUC+S groups received an intraperitoneal injection of 300 mg/kg 5-FU to induce mucositis. After 72 h, all mice were euthanised. Intestinal permeability, intestinal histology, and biochemical parameters were analysed. Group MUC showed a greater weight loss and increased intestinal permeability (0.020 counts per min [cpm]/g) compared to the CTL group (0.01 cpm/g) P<0.05. Both treatments attenuated weight loss compared to the MUC group. Nonetheless, the synbiotic caused a greater reduction in intestinal permeability (0.012 cpm/g) compared to the MUC (0.020 cpm/g) and MUC+P (0.016 cpm/g) groups P<0.05. Mice in groups MUC+P and MUC+S displayed significant recovery of lesions and maintenance of the mucus layer. There were no differences in the short-chain fatty acid concentrations in the faeces between the MUC and CTL groups (P>0.05). Increased acetate and propionate concentrations were evidenced in the faeces of the MUC+P and MUC+S groups. Only the synbiotic treatment increased the butyrate concentration (P<0.05). The results indicate that administration of synbiotic can decrease mucosal damage caused by mucositis.

Effect of synbiotic supplementation in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is characterized by excessive activation of immune processes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of synbiotic supplementation on the inflammatory response in children/adolescents with CF. SUBJECTS/METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, clinical-trial was conducted with control group (CG, n = 17), placebo-CF-group (PCFG, n = 19), synbiotic CF-group (SCFG, n = 22), PCFG negative (n = 8) and positive (n = 11) bacteriology, and SCFG negative (n = 12) and positive (n = 10) bacteriology. Markers of lung function (FEV1), nutritional status [body mass index-for age (BMI/A), height-for-age (H/A), weight-for-age (W/A), upper-arm fat area (UFA), upper-arm muscle area (UMA), body fat (%BF)], and inflammation [interleukin (IL)-12, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), IL-10, IL-6, IL-1ß, IL-8, myeloperoxidase (MPO), nitric oxide metabolites (NOx)] were evaluated before and after 90-day of supplementation with a synbiotic. RESULTS: No significance difference was found between the baseline and end evaluations of FEV1 and nutricional status markers. A significant interaction (time vs. group) was found for IL-12 (p = 0.010) and myeloperoxidase (p = 0.036) between PCFG and SCFG, however, the difference was not maintained after assessing the groups individually. NOx diminished significantly after supplementation in the SCFG (p = 0.030). In the SCFG with positive bacteriology, reductions were found in IL-6 (p = 0.033) and IL-8 (p = 0.009) after supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: Synbiotic supplementation shown promise at diminishing the pro-inflammatory markers IL-6, IL-8 in the SCFG with positive bacteriology and NOx in the SCFG in children/adolescents with CF.

Impact of dietary fat on gut microbiota and low-grade systemic inflammation: mechanisms and clinical implications on obesity.

Dietary fat strongly affects human health by modulating gut microbiota composition and low-grade systemic inflammation. High-fat diets have been implicated in reduced gut microbiota richness, increased Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio, and several changes at family, genus and species levels. Saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), polyunsaturated (PUFA) and conjugated linolenic fatty acids share important pathways of immune system activation/inhibition with gut microbes, modulating obesogenic and proinflammatory profiles. Mechanisms that link dietary fat, gut microbiota and obesity are mediated by increased intestinal permeability, systemic endotoxemia, and the activity of the endocannabinoid system. Although the probiotic therapy could be a complementary strategy to improve gut microbiota composition, it did not show permanent effects to treat fat-induced dysbiosis. Based upon evidence to date, we believe that high-fat diets and SFA consumption should be avoided, and MUFA and omega-3 PUFA intake should be encouraged in order to regulate gut microbiota and inflammation, promoting body weight/fat control.