Study of Daily Original Kefir or Milk Drinks on Gut Health, Sleep Quality, and Heart-Related Markers in Adults with Poor Sleep

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effects of kefir on gut health, sleep quality, and biochemical markers in adults who have sleep problems. The study also looks at cognitive function, blood vessel stiffness, and blood pressure. The aim is to understand how daily kefir consumption may influence the gut microbiome and various health aspects related to sleep and heart health. This research follows a randomized, double-blind, crossover design in adults aged 40 to 70 with poor sleep and specific body weight ranges. Participants will consume 250 ml of either kefir or milk daily for 4 weeks each, with a 4-week break between study periods. Kefir contains live cultures to support gut health, while the milk does not. The order of drinks is randomized and counterbalanced to reduce bias. Participants will switch between the two drinks during the study to assess differences in outcomes. During the study, participants will attend four laboratory visits and provide blood and saliva samples. Researchers will measure LDL cholesterol, gut microbiome changes, sleep quality and duration, cognitive function, blood pressure, pulse wave analysis, and immune markers. Adherence to daily drink consumption will be monitored, and safety is ensured through regular assessments. The total study duration includes two 4-week treatment periods and a 4-week washout phase.

Effects of Milk-based Drinks on Gut Microbiome, Sleep and Cardiometabolic Markers