Efficacy of microbiome-targeted interventions in obesity management- A comprehensive systematic review

Abstract

Background

Obesity is a global health crisis linked to numerous chronic diseases. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in human metabolism, and emerging evidence suggests that modulating the microbiome may offer novel therapeutic avenues for obesity management.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of microbiome-targeted interventions, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, in improving body composition, metabolic parameters, and inflammatory markers in overweight and obese adults.

Methods

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect was conducted to identify relevant studies published between 2005 and 2023. Included studies were assessed for methodological quality and risk of bias using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

Results

Body composition: Most studies demonstrated significant reductions in body weight, Body mass index, and body fat percentage.

Metabolic parameters

Improvements were observed in lipid profiles (reduced cholesterol, triglycerides) and glucose metabolism (improved insulin sensitivity).

Inflammatory markers

Significant reductions were observed in inflammatory markers such as Interleukins (IL-6, IL-8) and C-reactive protein.

Microbial composition

Interventions generally led to shifts in microbial composition, with increases in beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus.

Adverse events

Adverse events were generally minimal and limited.

Conclusion

This review provides strong evidence that microbiome-targeted interventions can effectively improve body composition, metabolic parameters, and inflammatory markers in individuals with obesity. Further research is needed to optimize intervention strategies, identify specific microbial targets, and translate these findings into effective clinical applications.