Researchers from the University of Nottingham found that the combination of kefir and prebiotic fiber can reduce systemic inflammation levels more effectively than omega-3 fatty acids or fiber alone. The results of the study were published in the Journal of Translational Medicine (JTM).
As part of the study, researchers compared three popular approaches to maintaining immune and metabolic health: omega-3 fatty acids, prebiotic fiber, and synbiotics—a combination of fermented kefir with various dietary fibers. The most pronounced effect was shown by the synbiotics.
Kefir contains live probiotic bacteria and yeasts that are formed during the fermentation of milk with the participation of kefir grains. When combined with prebiotic fiber, the so-called synbiotic effect occurs: the fiber serves as a nutrient medium for beneficial microorganisms, stimulating their growth and activity.
As a result, the production of metabolites is enhanced, including butyrate—a substance with pronounced anti-inflammatory properties capable of regulating the body's immune responses.
The six-week study involved healthy volunteers who took one of three types of supplements. The most noticeable decrease in levels of inflammatory markers in the blood was recorded in participants receiving the synbiotics.
According to the authors of the study, this may indicate a more effective maintenance of immune balance and a potential reduction in the risk of chronic diseases associated with inflammatory processes, including cardiovascular and metabolic disorders.
The lead researcher, Dr. Amrita Vijay from the University of Nottingham Medical School, noted that all three approaches had a positive impact; however, it was the combination of kefir and fiber that demonstrated the strongest and most comprehensive effect.
According to her, the results underscore the important role of the interaction between gut microbiota and dietary fibers in maintaining health and the normal functioning of the immune system.
