Metabolic Effects of Lactobacillus Reuteri DSM 17938 in Type 2 Diabetes

Recent data suggest that the trillions of bacteria in gastrointestinal tracts (gut microbiota) can function as an environmental factor that modulates the amount of body fat. Obese individuals have an altered gut microbiota and germ-free mice are resistant to developing diet-induced obesity and have lower fasting insulin and glucose concentrations and shows an improved glucose tolerance. Administration of the probiotic bacterium Lactobacillus Gasseri SBT2055 in fermented milk for 12 weeks reduced adiposity and body weight in obese adults possibly by reducing lipid absorption and inflammatory status. However, there are no controlled studies to the investigators knowledge that address whether probiotic supplementation affects glucose metabolism. The investigators hypothesis is that supplementation of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 may improve metabolic control in type 2 diabetes patients. In addition, the investigators will explore possible mechanisms behind the antihyperglycemic action of Lactobacillus Reuteri.