Synbiotic vs Probiotic for Hypertension
(GUTRCT Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests how different supplements affect heart health, weight, and gut health. Participants will take either a synbiotic (a mix of probiotics and prebiotics), a probiotic, or a placebo for 30 days. The study aims to determine which of these options, if any, can improve health markers in individuals without major chronic illnesses. Those who are healthy, have stable weight, and have one or no heart disease risk factors might be suitable candidates. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to the scientific understanding of supplements and their potential health benefits.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are being treated for hypothyroidism with levothyroxine, you will be excluded from the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has examined synbiotic treatments for safety and effectiveness. Studies have shown that synbiotics can lower the systolic blood pressure by an average of 3.02 mmHg, suggesting potential heart health benefits without major safety concerns.
For probiotics, strong evidence supports their safety. Research indicates they can reduce high blood pressure symptoms without significant side effects. Probiotics improve gut health and ease stress in blood vessels. Overall, both synbiotic and probiotic treatments are well-tolerated.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for hypertension because they explore innovative ways to manage blood pressure using gut health. The Synbiotic treatment combines probiotics with prebiotics and micronutrients like magnesium and vitamin C, aiming to improve gut health and potentially lower blood pressure through a holistic approach. On the other hand, the Probiotic treatment focuses on the beneficial effects of probiotics alone, using collagen and placebo drink mixes to support the body's natural balance. Unlike standard hypertension treatments that often rely on medications affecting the heart or blood vessels, these treatments target the gut microbiome, offering a novel and potentially more natural means to manage hypertension.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for hypertension?
This trial will compare the effects of synbiotics and probiotics on hypertension. Research has shown that synbiotics, which participants in this trial may receive, can help lower blood pressure. One study found that people who took synbiotics had lower blood pressure readings than those who did not. Another study combined results from four different trials and found that synbiotics led to a noticeable drop in blood pressure.
For probiotics, another treatment option in this trial, the evidence on their ability to lower blood pressure remains less clear. While probiotics benefit gut health, there is little direct proof that they reduce blood pressure. Overall, synbiotics appear more promising for managing blood pressure based on current research.678910Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephen J Ives, PhD
Principal Investigator
Skidmore College
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy individuals who want to see if taking a Synbiotic (Plexus® Triplex), Probiotic, or placebo can affect their gut bacteria and heart health over 30 days. Specific eligibility criteria are not provided.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either synbiotic, probiotic, or placebo control over 30 days to evaluate effects on gut microbiome and cardiometabolic health
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Placebo
- Probiotic
- Synbiotic
Probiotic is already approved in European Union, United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Supports gut health
- Reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Supports immune system
- Supports gut health
- Reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Supports immune system
- Supports gut health
- Reduces symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Supports immune system
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Skidmore College
Lead Sponsor