Effects of Probiotic-Phytonutrient Blends on Defecation, Intestinal Barrier Function, and Gut Microbiota: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial
Two probiotic-phytonutrient formulations improved stool consistency and increased fecal SCFAs compared to placebo over 8 weeks.
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What the study showed
Both PBP1 and PBP2 significantly increased the proportion of normal stool types (Bristol types 3–5) versus placebo. Fecal acetate, propionate, and butyrate levels were significantly elevated in both active groups, with butyrate showing notable increases. Fecal tryptophan decreased while indole metabolites showed an upward trend, with an inverse correlation between the two.
How it was done
Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in which participants received PBP1, PBP2, or placebo for 8 weeks; outcomes included a 7-day Bristol Stool Form Scale diary, fecal SCFAs, tryptophan metabolites, zonulin, and gut microbiota assessed at baseline and week 8.
Risk of bias
Sample size is not reported in the abstract, precluding assessment of statistical power. Absence of the full text limits evaluation of baseline characteristics, dropout rates, and clinical magnitude of observed differences.
What this study does NOT prove
This study does not prove that either formulation restores intestinal barrier integrity or prevents gastrointestinal disease.
In clinical practice
Findings are preliminary; improved stool pattern and SCFA levels represent signals rather than established therapeutic indications.
Limitations
Sample size is not reported in the abstract, precluding assessment of statistical power. Absence of the full text limits evaluation of baseline characteristics, dropout rates, and clinical magnitude of observed differences.
Technical appendix
Version history
- 1.0 · 2026-07-17 — Auto-generated under Evidence Standard v1.0
Paid access: structured summary from public metadata; consult the original study at the source.