An Exploratory Study on a Multispecies Probiotic Formulation and Markers of Intestinal Health in Healthy People

This study aimed to explore the efficacy of oral supplementation with 11 probiotic strains, combined in the strain mix Probatech™ (Centro Sperimentale del Latte S.r.l Strada Provinciale per Merlino, 326839 Zelo Buon Persico (LO), Italy) and delivered through the food supplement PROBAFLOR and how it plays a positive role in maintaining normal intestinal function, providing benefits in healthy adult subjects. A 16-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study was conducted starting with 60 participants. Participants were randomly assigned to either the probiotic or placebo group. Participants were asked to provide one faecal sample at the beginning of the study, another one after 12 weeks of supplementation and the final one after 16 weeks. Amplicon 16S rRNA gene sequencing and GC-MS Short-Chain Fatty Acid (SCFA) profiling were performed on the faecal samples. Participants filled out questionnaires to assess their gastrointestinal health and psychological well-being. The overall mean GIQLI scores increased in both groups over time. The increases were significant within both groups but not between groups. Following the administration of PROBAFLOR, Shannon and Simpson diversity indices showed a significant increase at day 90 (week 12) (p < 0.05), demonstrating that the intervention effectively enhanced gut microbiota diversity. A shift in the intestinal microbiota towards SCFA-producing families and genera was observed. Moreover, the change in total and single SCFAs was significantly different between probiotic and placebo groups at the end of the supplementation period. Once-daily consumption of the PROBAFLOR probiotics formula regulated gut microbiota balance by modulating SCFA production. It may be beneficial for gut health, improving defecation habits and satisfaction, normalizing stool frequency, and promoting bacterial metabolism.