Effects of probiotic supplementation on gut barrier function in combat athletes during pre-competition weight loss
A 4-week complex probiotic supplementation reduced gut permeability markers and systemic inflammation in combat athletes undergoing rapid weight loss.
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What the study showed
The abstract reports significant reductions in zonulin, IFABP, and D-lactate in the probiotic group versus placebo. SIgA levels increased and systemic inflammation was attenuated. Microbiota shifts included enrichment of butyrate-producing bacteria and suppression of Streptococcus.
How it was done
RCT with 24 elite male athletes randomized to a complex probiotic (1.5 × 10¹⁰ CFU, twice daily) or placebo for 4 weeks during pre-competition weight loss.
Risk of bias
Sample size of 24 exclusively elite male athletes severely limits generalizability. Abstract-only access prevents evaluation of randomization quality, blinding, statistical rigor, and dietary control.
What this study does NOT prove
The study does not prove efficacy in recreational athletes, women, or weight-loss contexts unrelated to combat sports.
In clinical practice
Findings are preliminary and context-specific. They do not support broad clinical recommendations without replication in larger and more diverse populations.
Limitations
Sample size of 24 exclusively elite male athletes severely limits generalizability. Abstract-only access prevents evaluation of randomization quality, blinding, statistical rigor, and dietary control.
Technical appendix
Version history
- 1.0 · 2026-08-01 — Auto-generated under Evidence Standard v1.0
Paid access: structured summary from public metadata; consult the original study at the source.