NEW research indicates genetics may significantly influence probiotic efficacy.
Published in the ISME Journal, the study by Dr Steven Taylor and Prof Geraint Rogers from SAHMRI and Flinders University examined how probiotics interact with individual genetic traits.
The findings suggest personalised probiotic treatments could enhance gut microbiome regeneration and health benefits.
The study revealed that secretor status, a genetic trait affecting gut sugar presentation, influences probiotic effectiveness.
Non-secretors, about 20% of the population, may benefit less from probiotics post-antibiotics but more so in their absence.
"This work highlights how genetic differences impact probiotic persistence, informing better use of probiotics," said Dr Taylor.
For non-secretors, specific prebiotics or dietary supplements, like certain sugars from human milk, may enhance probiotic effectiveness.
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