A novel study published in Beneficial Microbes has found that a unique multi-strain probiotic — available as Probiotical’s Bifizen — may improve multiple indicators of sleep quality.
The study was led by Chad Kerksick, PhD, of Lindenwood University in St. Charles, MO.
Investigators pointed out that the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is estimated to have more than 10 times more microorganisms than there are cells in the human body.
“Disruptions within the GIT can easily occur, inhibiting the gut-brain axis … Probiotics have been investigated as a significant focal point for GIT microbiota interventions.”
In previous published research with the same cohort, Bifizen was shown to have a significant effect on measures of minor depression, anxiety, and mood.
For this study, researchers investigated its ability to improve sleep quality and quantity. It is noteworthy to mention that this study began in early 2020, just before the global pandemic announcement of COVID-19, and then restarted in September 2020.
The influence of this background phenomenon on the anxiety and sleep physiology of the subjects is unknown, yet likely not inconsequential.
The trial was randomised, double-blind and placebo-controlled. Researchers had 70 healthy men and women complete a nine-week protocol: six weeks of supplementation with Bifizen or a matched placebo, followed by a three-week “washout” period.
Participants were evaluated subjectively using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PQSI) while objective objectives were collected via a wearable device that measured total hours of sleep per day.
The Bifizen group reported a significant reduction in time to fall asleep after 6 and 9 weeks of supplementation, compared to baseline.
At nine weeks, the Bifizen subjects displayed a greater improvement in PQSI global score compared to placebo. Data from the wearables indicated strong trends toward greater sleep duration and total time in bed.
Researchers speculated that Bifizen altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, which in turn impacted various biomarkers affecting sleep.
“Lack of quality sleep affects health, mood, and overall well-being,” observes Probiotical SpA CEO Vera Mogna. “These results represent an encouraging solution and represent an exciting direction for the probiotics industry.”