Effect of fiber-modified kombucha tea on gut microbiota in healthy population: A randomized controlled trial (RCT)
Background: The development of functional foods with health-promoting properties is a priority in addressing chronic diseases. Studying the effect of these foods on gut microbiota provides critical insights into the interplay between microorganisms, health, and disease. Objective: This study aimed t...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Elsevier
2025-01-01
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| Series: | Current Research in Food Science |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2665927125001613 |
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| Summary: | Background: The development of functional foods with health-promoting properties is a priority in addressing chronic diseases. Studying the effect of these foods on gut microbiota provides critical insights into the interplay between microorganisms, health, and disease. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fiber-enriched kombucha tea on biochemical parameters and gut microbiota composition in a healthy population. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, parallel nutritional intervention trial was conducted with 60 participants (58 completed: 42 women and 16 men; mean ± SD age: 39.79 ± 14.58 years). Participants were randomized into two groups consuming either 250 mL/day of a control beverage (unfermented tea) or the fiber-enriched kombucha tea for six weeks. Lifestyle and biochemical data were collected, and gut microbiota composition and diversity were assessed using 16S rDNA sequencing. Results: Significant biochemical and microbiota-related improvements were observed in the study group compared to the control. The treatment significantly affected triglyceride levels (p-value = 0.031). In particular, the study group exhibited a reduction in triglyceride levels very close to significance (baseline mean ± SEM: 69.59 ± 6.98 mg/dL; post-intervention: 62.80 ± 5.14 mg/dL; p = 0.053), while the control group did not experience a significant variation. Additionally, fiber-enriched kombucha consumption led to a notable increase in Bifidobacterium abundance, recognized for its intestinal health benefits and immunomodulatory effects. A reduction in Ruminococcus torques, linked to inflammatory bowel diseases, was also observed. Conclusions: The studied fiber-enriched kombucha drink demonstrated potential health benefits, including triglyceride modulation and positive alterations in gut microbiota composition. These findings suggest its promise as a functional beverage for improving metabolic and gut health in healthy individuals. However, further randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm these benefits. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT06626997. |
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| ISSN: | 2665-9271 |