EFFECT OF PROBIOTIC SUPPLEMENTATION ON BMI Z-SCORE IN OBESE CHILDREN AGED 6–12 YEARS: A DOUBLE-BLIND RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

Abstract

Background:Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern, associated with increased risk of metabolic disorders. Recent interest has emerged around the gut microbiota and its potential role in modulating body weight through probiotic supplementation.

Objective:To evaluate the effect of daily probiotic supplementation on BMI z-score and waist circumference in obese children aged 6–12 years compared to placebo over a 12-week period.

Methods:In this double-blind randomized controlled trial conducted at the Department of Pediatrics, Saveetha Medical College and Hospital, 172 obese children (BMI >95th percentile) were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a multi-strain probiotic (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, 10⁹ CFU) or a placebo for 12 weeks. Primary outcome was change in BMI z-score. Secondary outcomes included changes in waist circumference and body fat percentage.

Results:A significant reduction in BMI z-score was observed in the probiotic group (-0.22 ± 0.08) compared to placebo (-0.02 ± 0.05, p<0.001). The probiotic group also showed significant reductions in waist circumference (-3.1 ± 1.2 cm) and body fat percentage (-1.8 ± 0.9%) compared to the placebo group.

Conclusion:Probiotic supplementation significantly improved anthropometric outcomes in obese children, suggesting a potential adjunctive role in pediatric obesity management through modulation of gut microflora.