Probiotics Improve Insulin Sensitivity and Health by Balancing Gut Bacteria

Jenn Hoskins
3rd July, 2024

Probiotics Improve Insulin Sensitivity and Health by Balancing Gut Bacteria

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study by Sichuan Agricultural University found that supplementing sows with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) during late gestation and lactation improved insulin sensitivity
  • LGG supplementation led to increased milk production and higher survival rates among piglets
  • The probiotic altered the gut microbiota composition in sows, which was linked to improved metabolic health and reduced inflammation
Sows often face insulin resistance during late gestation and lactation, leading to reduced feed intake and milk production. This can result in higher mortality rates among newborn piglets. A recent study by Sichuan Agricultural University explored whether supplementing sows with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) during these critical periods could improve insulin sensitivity, lactation performance, and offspring survival[1]. Insulin resistance is a condition where the body's cells become less responsive to insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. This condition is not unique to sows; it also affects humans and other animals. Previous studies have shown that insulin resistance in sows can lead to metabolic and inflammatory changes, particularly during early lactation[2]. These changes can exacerbate metabolic disorders and inflammation, as evidenced by increased gut permeability and altered gut microbiota[2]. The study by Sichuan Agricultural University involved 20 sows, randomly divided into an LGG group and a control group. The LGG group received the probiotic supplement during late gestation and lactation, while the control group did not. The researchers aimed to measure the effects of LGG on insulin sensitivity, lactation performance, and offspring survival. Previous research has shown that dietary factors can influence insulin resistance in sows. For instance, a study found that varying levels of tryptophan (Trp) in the diet did not significantly affect feed intake or body weight, but did influence insulin sensitivity during lactation[3]. This suggests that dietary interventions could potentially modulate insulin resistance, although the exact mechanisms remain unclear. The current study found that sows supplemented with LGG showed improved insulin sensitivity compared to the control group. This improvement was evident through various metabolic tests, including glucose tolerance tests and insulin sensitivity assays. The findings align with earlier research indicating that the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in metabolic regulation[2]. In addition to improved insulin sensitivity, the LGG-supplemented sows also exhibited enhanced lactation performance. This was measured by increased milk production and higher survival rates among the offspring. These results are significant because they suggest that probiotics like LGG can positively influence both maternal and neonatal health. Previous studies have shown that high feed intake and body reserve mobilization are essential for high milk production in sows[4]. The current study adds to this by demonstrating that probiotics can further enhance these outcomes. The mechanisms behind these improvements are likely multifaceted. One possible explanation is that LGG alters the gut microbiota in a way that reduces inflammation and improves metabolic function. Previous research has shown that gut microbiota composition changes dramatically during different reproductive stages, affecting metabolic and inflammatory status[2]. By modulating the gut microbiota, LGG could help mitigate these adverse changes, thereby improving insulin sensitivity and lactation performance. Furthermore, the study found that LGG supplementation led to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are signaling molecules that promote inflammation. This reduction in inflammation could also contribute to improved metabolic health and better lactation outcomes. Earlier studies have highlighted the link between inflammation and metabolic disorders, emphasizing the role of cytokines in this process[2]. In conclusion, the study by Sichuan Agricultural University provides compelling evidence that supplementing sows with the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG during late gestation and lactation can improve insulin sensitivity, enhance lactation performance, and increase offspring survival. These findings build on previous research by demonstrating that dietary and microbial interventions can significantly impact metabolic health and reproductive outcomes in sows.

HealthBiochemAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG improves insulin sensitivity and offspring survival via modulation of gut microbiota and serum metabolite in a sow model

Published 2nd July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s40104-024-01046-z

Related Studies

2) Metabolic Syndrome During Perinatal Period in Sows and the Link With Gut Microbiota and Metabolites.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2018.01989

3) Reduced feed intake of lactating primiparous sows is associated with increased insulin resistance during the peripartum period and is not modified through supplementation with dietary tryptophan.

https://doi.org/10.2527/jas.2008-1768

4) Sows with high milk production had both a high feed intake and high body mobilization.

https://doi.org/10.1017/S1751731117000155


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