The Effect of Bacillus Coagulans and Galactomannans on the Quality of Life of Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Abstract

Aim/Background: The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of probiotics and prebiotics (LactoWise®) on the quality of life (QOL) of morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Index (GIQLI). Methods: Study was made of 60 consecutive patients undergoing LSG, who were randomized into two groups, one of which took LactoWise® and the other a placebo. The LactoWise® group received 4.5 billion live cells of Bacillus coagulans and galactomannans (300 mg) in capsule form, and the placebo group received 600 mg of calcium citrate yielding 126 mg of elemental calcium, in identical capsules, daily for 3 months post-surgery. The participants completed the GIQLI prior to surgery at their pre-operation consultation and 3 times post-surgery, at 2 and 6 weeks and at 3 months. Results: A total of 40 patients, with a mean age of 48.0±12.7 years and body mass index (BMI) of 46.2 ±8.0 kg/m 2 completed the study. In both the group taking LactoWise® and the placebo group, following surgery a significant improvement in QOL, according to the median scores on GIQLI was recorded over time (p<0.001). Pairwise comparison showed a significant difference between the baseline and each time point (weeks 2 and 6 and month 3). No difference in GIQLI score was detected between the two groups. Conclusions: Bariatric surgery has a positive impact on the QOL of morbidly obese patients, as assessed by their scores on the GIQLI. No difference in GIQLI scores was demonstrated with the use of probiotics and prebiotics.