Impact of probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum GKM3 on gastrointestinal health in overweight and obese individuals

Background & aims: Overweight and obesity, usually resulting from excess calorie intake, pose significant health challenges in modern societies and contribute to the development of chronic metabolic disorders. Gut microbes have been recognized as key regulators of energy utilization and gastrointestinal health. In this study, we investigated the effects of probiotics Lactobacillus plantarum strain GKM3 on overweight and obese subjects in a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Methods: Participants, aged 20–40 with body mass index between 25.0 and 29.9 and body fat percentages over 25 % for males and 30 % for females, were divided into a placebo group (n = 19) and a probioitcs group (n = 40), receiving capsules containing either a placebo or the probiotics GKM3 for four weeks. Results: Our findings demonstrated that supplementation with strain GKM3 at 1 g per day over the 4-week period significantly increased bowel movement frequency and alleviated symptoms such as gastroesophageal reflux, nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation. Fecal lipid analysis revealed elevated levels of triglycerides and total cholesterol compared to the placebo group. Microbiota analysis showed a significant reduction in obesity-associated taxa (Alcaligenaceae, Fusobacteriaceae, Acidaminococcus, Fusobacterium, and Megamonas) and an increase in beneficial genera (Akkermansia and Lactobacillus) following probiotic intervention. Conclusion: Our study suggests that the strain GKM3 modulates gut flora, leading to reduced fat absorption and improved gastrointestinal functions in overweight and obese individuals.