Effects of synbiotic consumption on lipid profile in diabetic patients

One of the most worldwide chronic diseases is diabetes which has affected a large population worldwide and it is predicted that 649 million adults will be diabetic by 2040. Many foods and ingredients were tested to combat diabetes. Both probiotics and prebiotics which are known as synbiotic have shown beneficial effects on many diseases including diabetes. Although several studies have evaluated the effect of synbiotic consumption on lipid profile in patients with diabetes, findings are inconsistent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of synbiotics on lipid profile in diabetic patients. A systematic literature search of online databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Magiran, SID, and Cochrane’s library was conducted up to January 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of synbiotics on lipid profile in diabetic patients were included. A total of 11 RCTs with 662 participants were included. Synbiotic consumption resulted in a decrease in plasma concentrations of TC, TG, LDL, and an increase in plasma HDL levels compared to the control group (placebo supplements/control foods/conventional products). Synbiotic supplements may be profitable to ameliorate lipid profile in patients with diabetes and it should be suggested by both dietitians and healthcare clinics to diabetic patients.