Efficacy of an Anthocyanin and Prebiotic Blend on Intestinal Environment in Obese Male and Female Subjects.

Background: Anthocyanins and prebiotics impact overall health and wellness, likely through modulation of the microbiota and the intestinal ecosystem.

Objectives: An 8-week open-label study in male and female volunteers with uncomplicated obesity was designed to study the efficacy of an anthocyanin and prebiotic blend in modulating intestinal microbiota and intestinal inflammation.

Results: After 8 weeks of daily supplementation, participants had a significant decrease in Firmicutes ( p < 0.001) and Actinobacteria ( p < 0.001) and a significant increase in Bacteroidetes ( p < 0.001). Bowel habits were improved as evidenced by reductions in the severity of bloating ( p < 0.05), gas ( p =0.035), and abdominal pain ( p =0.015) as well as significant improvements in stool consistency ( p < 0.05). Finally, a nonsignificant decrease in the inflammatory marker fecal calprotectin was seen ( p =0.107). The supplement was safe and well tolerated.

Conclusions: The results suggest that regular consumption of the anthocyanin-prebiotic blend positively modulated the intestinal ecosystem and provided insights into the mechanisms of action and its impact on health benefits.