A recent randomized controlled trial has shed light on the positive effects of administering the prebiotic yeast mannan (YM) on both gut health and sleep quality in healthy adults. This groundbreaking study highlights the potential benefits of YM in enhancing certain aspects of overall well-being.
The research underscores the crucial role of the gut microbiome in various health aspects, such as host immunity, vitamin synthesis, and the breakdown of dietary fibers. Imbalances in the gut microbiome can have significant impacts on physical and mental health. Recent studies have also pointed to a connection between gut health and sleep quality, emphasizing the need for interventions to maintain a healthy gut environment.
The study, a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, involved 40 healthy participants aged between 20 and 64 years, experiencing discomfort in defecation. The participants were randomly assigned to either the YM group or the placebo group for a four-week administration period. The study included self-reported defecation habits, sleep electroencephalogram (EEG) recordings, and the analysis of faecal samples.
The YM group exhibited a significant increase in defecation frequency and stool volumes compared to the placebo group. Moreover, after the four-week treatment period, the YM group showed a notable increase in both the duration of non-REM sleep stage 3 (deep sleep) and total time spent in bed.
Metabolomics analysis revealed distinct differences in 20 metabolites between the YM and placebo groups, particularly in faecal propionate and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels. These findings suggest a potential link between elevated faecal propionate and GABA levels and the observed improvements in gut health and sleep quality.
The study proposes that YM intake may offer benefits in enhancing gut health and specific parameters of sleep quality. However, the researchers advocate for further investigation to validate the demonstrated effects of YM supplementation and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms responsible for these positive outcomes. This research opens the door to a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome, prebiotics, and overall well-being.
