Menu

Here’s How Probiotics Can Help You Lose Weight & Belly Fat

woman flat stomach

Having difficulty shedding excess weight? Probiotics may be one (very important) missing piece of the puzzle. With a wide array of benefits, it’s no surprise that current research would point to probiotics for faster, lasting results.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that have health benefits when eaten. These are found in both supplements and fermented foods like yogurt, pickles and some kinds of cheese (gouda, mozzarella, cheddar and cottage cheese).

Featured on BlackDoctor

How do probiotics boost weight loss?

According to research, certain bacteria (Lactobacillus family) combat dietary fat absorption, increasing the amount of fat expelled daily. That’s right, say bye, bye to belly fat – a reduction of 3–4% over a 6-week period, one study published in the Journal of Functional Foods says.

Meanwhile, metabolic nutrients found in probiotics increase energy, allowing users to burn more, faster. These obesity battling bacteria include:

GLP-1: An appetite-reducing hormone which may help you burn calories and fat.

ANGPTL4: Increases levels of the protein – the most important macronutrient when it comes to losing weight — which can decrease fat storage.

Other ways probiotics prevent weight problems.

While shedding unsightly weight is definitely a battle, the war is arguably maintaining loss and preventing further gain.

Fortunately for us, prevention is as easy as implementing one of the popular strains — Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus fermentum or Lactobacillus amylovorus — into your diet. According to a 2013 study, 210 participants with a rather large gut, experience reduced body weight, fat around organs, BMI, a slimmer waist and hip circumference. Even more, patients reduced belly fat by 8.5 percent. It’s important to note that while many bacteria strains reduce weight gain, studies show others may increase weight gain.

Bottom line?

Some strains have proven successful for weight loss. Still don’t know where to start? Experts suggest the following foods:

Fermented veggies: Kimchi, cabbage, collards, kale and celery

Lassi: A popular Indian yogurt drink

Tempeh: Like veggie burgers, this delicacy is created from soybeans

Natto: A powerful Japanese treat, rich in “good” gut bacteria

Kefir (or yogurt): Always go with organic options, rich in live cultures

You can also try a quality probiotic supplement. 

It’s important to note that the power of probiotics also impacts the following ailments:

  • Cancer
  • Asthma
  • Allergies
  • Diabetes
  • Autoimmune Diseases
  • Depression
  • ADHD
  • Autism

SHARE
Related Stories
Answer the question below

Gout Survey

People with gout often have sudden, painful flares of joint swelling and redness. How many gout flares have you experienced in the last 12 months?
Have you ever received intravenous medicine for your gout?

Get our Weekly Newsletter

Stay informed on the latest breakthroughs in family health and wellness. Sign up today!

By subscribing, you consent to receive emails from BlackDoctor.com. You may unsubscribe at any time. Privacy Policy & Terms of Service.

More from BlackDoctor

Where Culture Meets Care

BlackDoctor is the world’s largest and most comprehensive online health resource specifically for the Black community. BlackDoctor understands that the uniqueness of Black culture - our heritage and our traditions - plays a role in our health. BlackDoctor gives you access to innovative new approaches to the health information you need in everyday language so you can break through the disparities, gain control and live your life to its fullest.
✦ AI Search Disclaimer
This AI-powered search tool helps you find relevant health articles from the BlackDoctor.org archive. Please keep the following in mind:
✦ For Informational Purposes Only
The information provided through this AI search is for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
✦ Always Consult a Healthcare Provider
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read through this search tool. If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
✦ AI Limitations
This search tool uses artificial intelligence to help match your queries with articles in our archive. While we strive for accuracy, AI-generated results may occasionally be incomplete, outdated, or not fully relevant to your specific situation.
✦ No Doctor-Patient Relationship
Using this search tool does not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and BlackDoctor.org or any healthcare provider.
Explore over 35,000 articles and videos across black health, wellness, lifestyle and culture
Full AI Search Experience >
×

Download PDF

Enter your name and email to receive the download link.

BlackDoctor AI Search