{"id":58078,"date":"2023-04-20T09:30:22","date_gmt":"2023-04-20T13:30:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/?p=58078"},"modified":"2025-04-10T09:52:41","modified_gmt":"2025-04-10T13:52:41","slug":"diabetes-and-probiotics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.singlecare.com\/blog\/diabetes-and-probiotics\/","title":{"rendered":"Can probiotics help treat diabetes?"},"content":{"rendered":"

As the interest in natural alternatives continues to rise, many patients may be considering probiotics for potential health benefits. Patients with diabetes, in particular, may be curious about whether they can take probiotics and how probiotics may affect their blood sugar levels. As it turns out, research has shown several potential benefits of probiotics for diabetes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

For patients who have questions about probiotic use for diabetes, it\u2019s important for pharmacy professionals to stay up-to-date and guide patients on the effectiveness and safety of probiotics. This post will address questions such as: Can a diabetic take probiotics, do probiotics help diabetes, and what types of probiotics are best for diabetes management?<\/span><\/p>\n

Probiotics and how they work for diabetes<\/span><\/h2>\n

Probiotics<\/span><\/a> are live microorganisms that are believed to provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are typically found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut\u2014as well as in <\/span>dietary supplements<\/span><\/a>. Probiotic supplements are typically taken with or without food daily, although it\u2019s important for patients to read the supplement labels to determine the best way to use a specific product.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Various strains of bacteria in probiotics may help support a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gut. Different strains may be recommended depending on the intended use. They may work through different mechanisms for Type 2 diabetes, such as improved glucose metabolism and decreased insulin resistance. They may also help support the gut lining, reduce inflammatory markers, and regulate the digestion of carbohydrates.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Research on probiotics for diabetes management<\/span><\/h2>\n

Several clinical studies have investigated the potential benefits of probiotics for diabetes management. These studies have assessed the effects of various species and strains of probiotics. The main genera of bacteria studied were Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.<\/span><\/p>\n

One study published in <\/span>Advances in Nutrition<\/span><\/i><\/a> found that probiotics can contribute to glycemic control in patients with Type 2 diabetes. The study showed that probiotics could improve glycemic control by reducing fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c levels. The study found that probiotics reduced fasting blood glucose (FBG) more than the placebo group by an average of around 13 mg\/dL over the short term and around 3 mg\/dL over the long-term. However, the effect of probiotics on glucose levels was more pronounced in patients with poorly controlled diabetes or those not on insulin therapy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Another meta-analysis published in <\/span>Translational Medicine<\/span><\/i><\/a> found that probiotic treatment may reduce HbA1c, fasting blood glucose levels, and insulin resistance levels in Type 2 diabetes patients. The study assessed 15 randomized controlled trials with almost 1,000 participants and found that probiotics significantly improve metrics used to monitor Type 2 diabetes. The researchers concluded that probiotics could be a safe and effective adjunct therapy for managing Type 2 diabetes.<\/span><\/p>\n

A recent study published in <\/span>Diabetes<\/span><\/i><\/a> evaluated the use of a specific bacteria known for generating a fatty acid called butyrate. The study found that the genus Coprococcus was associated with increased insulin sensitivity and decreased dysglycemia. Supplementation with this bacteria may be considered a potential treatment pathway for Type 2 diabetes patients. On the other hand, Flavonifractor and Anaerostipes were found in higher levels in people with poorly controlled diabetes and linked to decreased insulin sensitivity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Types of probiotics used for diabetes management<\/span><\/h2>\n

The types of probiotics used in research studies varied, but some of the most commonly used strains include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, and Streptococcus thermophilus. These strains have been shown to improve glucose homeostasis, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity in patients with diabetes.<\/span><\/p>\n

Other types of bacteria that may be beneficial as probiotics for diabetes include:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n