Yakult for stronger muscles? study tests probiotic against sarcopenia
NCT ID NCT04985877
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether a fermented milk drink containing Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (sold as Yakult) could improve gut health and slow muscle loss in 132 elderly Taiwanese adults with sarcopenia. Participants drank two bottles daily for 12 weeks. Researchers measured changes in gut bacteria, muscle mass, and strength. The goal was to see if the probiotic could reduce inflammation and support muscle function through the gut-muscle axis.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- fermented milk containing Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (probiotic)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a simple dietary supplement to help slow muscle loss and improve strength in older adults with sarcopenia.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, completed study (132 people) with no blinding or placebo control, so results may be due to chance or other factors. The benefits seen may not apply to other populations.
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
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Locations
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Taipei Medical University
Taipei, 110, Taiwan
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Taipei Medical University Hospital
Taipei, 110, Taiwan
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Wanfang Hospital
Taipei, Taiwan
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