Castelo Branco

Researchers are exploring the effects of kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, on individuals who are overweight or have class 1 obesity. This study aims to understand how kombucha, including its live microbiota, influences metabolic factors like glucose, insulin, and lipid levels, as well as gut microbiota diversity and liver function. The trial is a randomized controlled pilot study assessing these impacts through clinical and biological measures. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups one group drinks 33 cl of live kombucha daily, another drinks 33 cl of pasteurized kombucha daily, and a third group drinks 33 cl of sparkling water as a control. Each intervention lasts for 4 weeks, and the study includes dietary supplementation with the assigned beverage. The trial involves a triple-blind design to reduce bias. During the study, participants undergo assessments of their gut microbiota through fecal samples, fasting glucose and insulin levels, insulin resistance, lipid profiles, liver enzymes, and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Questionnaires about gastrointestinal symptoms and stool consistency are also completed. The trial aims to measure changes over the 4-week period to evaluate kombuchas potential effects on metabolism, microbiota, and liver health.