Prospective evaluation of probiotic and prebiotic supplementation on diabetic health associated with gut microbiota

Gut microbiota are critical for proper metabolic functions. Gut health can often be improved with dietary modulation, especially with probiotic and prebiotic. These supplements can stimulate immune system responses and prevent colonization by pathogen. Many diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, heart diseases, obesity, and cancers, benefit from proper function of intestinal microflora. Diabetes is an endocrine disease typically controlled, at least in part, with dietary intervention. The current study main aim was to study the potential health benefits of probiotic and prebiotic supplements on the treatment of diabetes. Male rats were divided into negative and positive control groups. Additional groups were fed 5% of yogurt, gum Arabic or a combination. Total colonic microbiota, Bifidobacterium spp., Lactobacillus spp., and Clostridium spp., were counted. Blood glucose, lipid profiles, and kidney function, with histology, were analyzed. Gut microflora was significantly improved, especially in rats fed with pro/prebiotics. Serum lipid profiles significantly improved (p ≤ 0.05) after feeding yogurt and gum Arabic in combination; HDL levels were significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05). Kidney function was also significantly enhanced (p ≤ 0.05) after feeding with this mixture. Yogurt and gum Arabic are highly recommended (level of 5%) for controlling diabetes and improvement of lipid, glucose, and kidney profiles; however, human trials are needed.