Encapsulated Probiotics & Gut Microbiota

The aim of this study is to determine whether encapsulation of probiotic bacteria using natural plant protein can enhance bacterial colonisation. Lactobacillus rhamnosus is an ideal strain for the intervention, as it has been shown to affect overall gut health, gut-brain axis, and brain function. Twenty-five participants aged 25 to 65 years will be recruited and assessed on four occasions to compare the blood and faecal effects of a 28-day ingestion of a yoghurt beverage with and without the probiotic strain of interest. The study window will be 70+/13 days. The current study will provide important information on the physiological function of probiotics in the small bowel. Understanding the underlying physiological effects of targeted probiotic delivery to the intestine and the impact on the microbiome is important for health outcomes.