Effects of Synbiotic Gaz Consumption on Lipid Profile in Pregnant Women: A Double-blind Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Background & Objectives: Although several attempts have been made to decrease lipid profile through consumption of probiotic-containing products among pregnant women, limited data are available assessing the effects of synbiotic foods. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of daily consumption of a synbiotic Gaz on blood lipid profile and biomarkers of oxidative stress including plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total glutathione (GSH) in pregnant women. Materials and Methods: This randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial was performed on 52 primigravida pregnant women, aged 18-35 year old at their third trimester. After a 2 week run-in period, subjects were randomly assigned to consume either a synbiotic (n=26) or control food (n=26) for 9 weeks. The synbiotic Gaz consisted of a probiotic viable and heat-resistant Lactobacillus sporogenes (1×107 CFU) and 0.04 g inulin /g as the prebiotic. Patients were asked to consume the synbiotic and control Gaz twice a day. Biochemical measurements including blood lipid profile, plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total glutathione (GSH) were conducted before and after 9 weeks of intervention. Results: Consumption of synbiotic Gaz for 9 weeks resulted in a significant reduction in serum TAG (P=0.04), VLDL (P=0.04) and a significant rise in plasma GSH levels (P=0.004) compared to the control Gaz. No significant effect of the synbiotic Gaz consumption on serum TC, LDL, HDL or plasma TAC levels were observed. Conclusion: Consumption of synbiotic Gaz for 9 weeks resulted in decreased serum triglycerides, VLDL-cholesterol and increased plasma total GSH levels compared with the control Gaz among pregnant women.