Hertfordshire Study
An Exploratory Investigation of Endotoxin Levels in Novice Long Distance Triathletes, and the Effects of a Multi-Strain Probiotic/Prebiotic, Antioxidant Intervention
Aim
This randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled study aimed to assess the effect of a 12-week Lab4 probiotic/prebiotic/antioxidant intervention on gut symptoms, endotoxin levels, intestinal permeability and race time in recreational athletes.
Method
- Group 1 – took a daily placebo
- Group 2 – took 30 billion Lab4 probiotics with prebiotic fibre daily
- Group 3 – took 30 billion Lab4 probiotics with prebiotic fibre and antioxidants daily
Results
Gut disturbance
Endotoxin
- Endotoxin levels were significantly reduced in group 2 who took Lab4 probiotics six days post-race compared to the start levels (*P<0.05). This represented an overall 43.9% reduction in endotoxin levels.
- Endotoxin levels were significantly reduced in group 3 who took Lab4 probiotics plus antioxidants for both pre-race and six days post-race compared to the start levels (*P<0.05). This represented an overall 36.8% reduction in endotoxin levels.
- No changes in endotoxin levels were observed in the placebo group.
Plasma endotoxin levels 1.
Plasma endotoxin levels 2.
Intestinal permeability
Placebo group L:M ratio
Lactulose: mannitol ratio
Race times
- Faster race times were observed with Lab4 probiotics (10.0% reduction, P= 0.058) and Lab4 probiotics plus antioxidants (6.5% reduction) compared to placebo group.
- A significantly faster time was reported for Lab4 probiotics group during the cycle stage of the triathlon (*P = 0.046).
- Both Lab4 probiotics and Lab4 probiotics plus antioxidants groups completed the marathon faster than the placebo group.
Overall race time (min)
Race time (min)
Conclusion
Lab4 probiotics with fibre alone or in combination with antioxidants protect athletes from gut disturbances during endurance training and improve their race finishing times.
Reference
Roberts JD et al 2016. An Exploratory Investigation of Endotoxin Levels in Novice Long Distance Triathletes, and the Effects of a Multi-Strain Probiotic/Prebiotic, Antioxidant Intervention.
Nutrients 8:733.