A recent study indicates that a combination of kefir and prebiotic fiber may be more effective in reducing inflammation than omega-3 supplements alone, highlighting the importance of gut health.
A new study from the University of Nottingham has revealed that a simple dietary combination could provide greater immune benefits than omega-3 supplements on their own. Researchers found that pairing kefir, a fermented milk drink, with a mix of prebiotic fibers led to more significant reductions in inflammation markers compared to omega-3 supplements or fiber alone.
The findings, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, underscore the potential role of gut bacteria in supporting immune and metabolic functions. Kefir, which is similar to yogurt and contains live bacteria and yeast, appears to enhance the effects of prebiotic fiber. This type of fiber nourishes healthy gut bacteria, enabling them to grow and function more effectively.
As these beneficial bacteria flourish, they produce natural substances that help to alleviate inflammation in the body. In a six-week study, participants who consumed the kefir and fiber combination experienced the most significant decrease in markers associated with whole-body inflammation. While those taking omega-3 supplements or fiber alone also saw improvements, the results were not as pronounced.
“Our study shows that while all three dietary approaches reduced inflammation, the synbiotic — combining fermented kefir with a diverse prebiotic fiber mix — had the most powerful and wide-ranging effects,” said Amrita Vijay, a gut microbiome scientist who led the research.
The researchers focused on measuring systemic inflammatory markers, which indicate inflammation occurring throughout the body. While inflammation is a normal immune response, chronic low-level inflammation that persists over time has been linked to various health issues, including heart disease and metabolic disorders, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
The study’s findings suggest that combining probiotics and prebiotics may offer broader support for health than relying on a single supplement. “This suggests that the interaction between gut microbes and dietary fiber may be key to supporting immune balance and metabolic health,” Vijay noted.
Looking ahead, the research team plans to further investigate how synbiotic supplementation could impact individuals with chronic inflammatory disorders, potentially paving the way for new dietary strategies in managing inflammation.
These insights into the benefits of kefir and prebiotic fiber highlight the importance of gut health in overall well-being, suggesting that dietary choices can play a crucial role in managing inflammation and supporting immune function.
According to Fox News, the implications of this research could lead to more effective dietary recommendations for those seeking to reduce inflammation and improve their health.