Cardiovascular benefits of probiotics: a review of experimental and clinical studies
2016
The microbiota inhabiting the human gastro-intestinal tract is reported to have a significant impact on the health of an individual. Recent findings suggest that the microbial imbalance of the gut may play a role in pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Therefore, several studies have delved into the aspect of altering gut microbiota with
probioticsas an approach to prevent and/or treat CVD. The World Health Organization defines
probioticsas live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, have a positive influence on the individual's health. The present review focuses on strategies of human dietary intervention with
probioticstrains and their impact on cardiovascular risk factors like hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, obesity and type-2 diabetes. Accumulating evidence shows
probioticsto lower low density lipoproteins (LDL)-cholesterol and improve the LDL/high density lipoproteins (HDL) ratio, as well as
lower blood pressure, inflammatory mediators, blood glucose levels and body mass index. Thus,
probioticshave the scope to be developed as dietary supplements with potential cardiovascular health benefits. However, there is not only ambiguity regarding the exact strains and dosages of the
probioticsthat will bring about positive health effects, but also factors like immunity and genetics of the individual that might influence the efficacy of
probiotics. Therefore, further studies are required not only to understand the mechanisms by which
probioticsmay beneficially affect the cardiovascular system, but also to rule out any of their probable negative effects on health. The present review aims to
critically appraisethe complexity of the available data with regard to the cardiovascular benefits of
probiotics.
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