Gut bacteria may hold key to weight loss — trial puts probiotic to the test

NCT ID NCT06140641

First seen Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 23, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates whether a daily probiotic supplement called Bifidobacterium longum BL21 can help overweight or obese adults lower their body mass index (BMI) and improve metabolic health. Over 8 weeks, participants take either the probiotic or a placebo, and researchers track changes in gut bacteria, BMI, and other health markers through blood, urine, and stool samples. The goal is to see if this specific probiotic can positively influence weight and metabolism.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
a probiotic supplement called Bifidobacterium longum BL21
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a simple, natural way to support weight management and metabolic health in people who are overweight or obese.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage trial with only 72 participants. The probiotic may have little to no effect on weight or metabolism, and results may not apply to everyone.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Qilu hospital

    Jinnan, Shandong, 250012, China