Probiotic Supplementation and Illness Symptoms in Athletes
Author Information
Author(s): West Nicholas P, Pyne David B, Cripps Allan W, Hopkins William G, Eskesen Dorte C, Jairath Ashok, Christophersen Claus T, Conlon Michael A, Fricker Peter A
Primary Institution: Australian Institute of Sport
Hypothesis
Does Lactobacillus fermentum (PCC®) supplementation reduce gastrointestinal and respiratory illness symptoms in athletes?
Conclusion
L. fermentum may help reduce the severity of gastrointestinal and lower respiratory illness symptoms in male athletes, but effects in females are unclear.
Supporting Evidence
- Probiotic supplementation increased Lactobacillus counts significantly in males.
- Males reported lower severity of gastrointestinal symptoms with probiotic use.
- Females showed an increase in mild gastrointestinal symptoms with probiotic use.
- Probiotic use reduced the load of lower respiratory illness symptoms in males.
- Self-reported symptoms of illness were recorded daily by participants.
Takeaway
Taking a probiotic called L. fermentum might help male athletes feel less sick in their stomachs and with colds, but it didn't work the same way for female athletes.
Methodology
The study was a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial with 99 competitive cyclists and triathletes, who were given either a probiotic or placebo for 11 weeks.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from self-reported illness symptoms and dietary compliance.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size for subgroup analyses, particularly for females, and the effects on upper respiratory tract illness were uncertain.
Participant Demographics
64 males and 35 females, aged approximately 35-36 years.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
90% confidence limits 2.1- to 28-fold increase in Lactobacillus counts in males.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website