Effects of pro-/synbiotic supplementation on anthropometric and metabolic indices in overweight or obese children and adolescents: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background & aims: Existing evidence on the possible effects of pro-/synbiotics on overweight or obese children and adolescents has not been fully established. Therefore, the present review was undertaken to evaluate the overall effects of pro-/synbiotics supplementation on anthropometric indices and metabolic indices in overweight or obese children and adolescents. Methods: A systematic computerized literature search of PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of science and Google Scholar databases was conducted up to November 2018. All RCTs using pro-/synbiotics supplements in overweight or obese children and adolescents included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Results: Overall 9 randomized trials including 410 subjects were identified for the present meta analysis. Pooled analysis did not illustrate any significant changes in BMI z-score, waist circumference, weight, body fat, fasting blood sugar and lipid profiles (triglyceride, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) after supplementation with pro-/synbiotics for 4-16 weeks. However, subgroup analysis by intervention type revealed a significant reduction of BMI z-score in synbiotic subgroups. Conclusion: Based on our findings, modulation of gut microbiota composition through pro-/synbiotic supplements did not have favorable effects to manage overweight or obese children and adolescents. Further large-scale studies are warranted to confirm present findings.