Effects of a Sugar-Based Synbiotic Product on Cardiometabolic and Intestinal Health (SUGAR-SYN BC3O)

This randomized, double-blind, controlled, crossover study investigates the effects of a sugar-based synbiotic product containing inulin and Bacillus coagulans BC30™ spores in healthy overweight individuals. Twenty participants complete a 2-week run-in period and two 4-week intervention periods separated by a 4-week washout. During each intervention period, participants consume two sachets per day of either the synbiotic sugar product, providing 1 × 10⁹ CFU/day of Bacillus coagulans BC30™, or a matched control sugar product containing inulin without probiotic spores. The primary outcome is the change in fasting markers of subclinical inflammation, including high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-10 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Secondary outcomes include fasting glucose and insulin, fasting lipids, intestinal permeability, short-chain fatty acids, body composition, gastrointestinal symptoms, stool frequency and consistency, and gut microbiota composition. Participants maintain their usual diet and lifestyle throughout the study.