Discussion
At the turn of the 20th century, Nobel Prize laureate Ilya Metchnikov introduced the concept that bacteria in yogurt can help neutralize gut pathogens, which may, in turn, support longevity. Since then, the role of beneficial bacteria in human health has become well established in scientific literature and continues to evolve.
In 2002, a working group of experts from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the World Health Organization (WHO) defined probiotics as “live strains of strictly selected microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.” Clinical studies have suggested that supplemental probiotics may positively affect a wide range of health concerns, including gastrointestinal issues, allergies, immune support, and weight management.* [1–7] Epithelial integrity is key to the function of the gastrointestinal tract. According to in vitro and animal research, disturbances to this integrity appear to be linked to metabolic disorders. To investigate whether specific probiotic bacteria can protect epithelial cells from the damaging effects of pathogenic bacteria, Caco-2 cells (a model for intestinal epithelial cells) were treated with cell-free supernatants (CFSs) from four probiotic strains—Bifidobacterium lactis 420 (B420), Bifidobacterium lactis HN019, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, and Lactobacillus salivarius Ls-33—as well as a CFS from the pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli (EHEC) O157:H7.
Measurements of tight junction integrity and cyclooxygenase expression showed that the B420 CFS counteracted the damage induced by the EHEC CFS. While it cannot be certain that B420 CFS would prevent junction damage caused by live EHEC bacteria, the findings suggest that probiotic bacteria produce soluble metabolites that protect epithelial cells and positively influence cytokine balance.This awareness of soluble bacterial metabolites in vitro leads to speculation that similar metabolites might be produced in the intestine in vivo, exerting comparable effects. The evidence presented supports the idea that oral consumption of the B420 probiotic may benefit epithelial integrity.
Building on the data reported for B420 thus far, investigators examined whether changes in the gut microbiota were associated with clinical benefits and obesity-related issues. Fecal and plasma samples from a subset of participants (n = 134) in the aforementioned clinical trial were assessed at baseline, 2, 4, and 6 months, as well as 1 month post-intervention.
Consumption of B420 resulted in alterations in specific gut microbiota, including Lactobacillus and Akkermansia muciniphila. Notably, Akkermansia muciniphila—which is often found in lower amounts in obese individuals with metabolic dysfunction—is associated with improved metabolic health. This strain supports gut barrier function and improves obesity-related markers, reinforcing the probiotic benefits of B420.* [10]
More clinical trials are warranted to confirm these effects in larger participant populations and to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Total NutriCare packages MegaFlora Lean capsules in sealed, nitrogen-purged blister packs to protect against factors known to compromise probiotic stability, such as heat, moisture, and oxygen. Additionally, to support resistance to low pH and optimize delivery of microorganisms to the small intestine, MegaFlora Lean uses DRcaps™ gastro-resistant capsules. These specially designed, innovative capsules slow exposure of active ingredients to stomach acid, promoting a more targeted release.*
DIRECTIONS
Take one capsule with water daily, or as directed by your healthcare professional.
Consult your healthcare professional prior to use. Individuals taking medication should discuss potential interactions with their healthcare professional. STORAGE: Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place. Keep out of reach of children.
FORMULATED TO EXCLUDE:
Wheat, gluten, soy, animal and dairy products, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, egg, ingredients derived from genetically modified organisms (GMOs), artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, and artificial preservatives.
ClinicalApplications
»SupportsHealthyWeightManagement*
»Promotes Gut Barrier Function*
»Promotes Intake of Less Calories*
»SupportsReduction of Body Fat Mass*
 
MegaFlora Lean features a vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free formula containing the patented HOWARU® Shape Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis B420 probiotic strain. This probiotic has been proven to be safe, effective, and well-tolerated. It supports healthy body composition by enhancing gut barrier function, aiding in the reduction of body fat mass, and promoting reduced calorie consumption.
In animal research, the potential benefits of B420 in reducing high-fat, diet-induced body weight gain and diabetes were studied. The results showed a reduction in fat mass and improved glucose tolerance in both obese and diabetic mice. Additionally, reduced intestinal mucosal adherence and decreased levels of plasma lipopolysaccharide suggested a mechanism involving reduced translocation of gut microbes.
References
 
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Report of a Joint FAO/WHO Working Group on Drafting Guidelines for the Evaluation of Probiotics in Food. FAO; London, ON, Canada. April 30 – May 1, 2002.
https://www.who.int/foodsafety/fs_management/en/probiotic_guidelines.pdf
Accessed December 11, 2018.
Wilkins T, Sequoia J. Probiotics for gastrointestinal conditions: a summary of the evidence. Am Fam Physician. 2017 Aug 1;96(3):170-178. [PMID: 28762696]
Markowiak P, Śliżewska K. Effects of probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics on human health. Nutrients. 2017 Sep 15;9(9):E1021. [PMID: 28914794]
Sanders M, Merenstein C, Merrifield C, et al. Probiotics for human use. Nutrition Bulletin. 2018 Sept;43(3):212-225. doi:10.1111/nbu.12334
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/nbu.12334
Accessed December 11, 2018.
Kadooka Y, Sato M, Imaizumi K, et al. Regulation of abdominal adiposity by probiotics (Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055) in adults with obese tendencies in a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2010 Jun;64(6):636-43. [PMID: 20216555]
Stenman LK, Lehtinen MJ, Meland N, et al. Probiotic with or without fiber controls body fat mass, associated with serum zonulin, in overweight and obese adults - randomized controlled trial. EBioMedicine. 2016 Nov;13:190-200. [PMID: 27810310]
Putaala H, Salusjärvi T, Nordström M, et al. Effect of four probiotic strains and Escherichia coli O157:H7 on tight junction integrity and cyclo-oxygenase expression. Res Microbiol. 2008 Nov-Dec;159(9-10):692-8. [PMID: 18783733]
Stenman LK, Waget A, Garret C, et al. Potential probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis 420 prevents weight gain and glucose intolerance in diet-induced obese mice. Benef Microbes. 2014 Dec;5(4):437-45. [PMID: 25062610]
Hibberd AA, Yde CC, Ziegler ML, et al. Probiotic or synbiotic alters the gut microbiota and metabolism in a randomised controlled trial of weight management in overweight adults. Benef Microbes. 2018 Dec 10:1-16. [PMID: 30525950]