Yakult is a fermented milk drink that contains a specific strain of probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus casei Shirota. Recent research has shown that this strain may positively impact glucose metabolism, which is how the body converts sugar into energy. However, some individuals may experience a hyperglycemic response after consuming Yakult, which could have negative effects on glucose control. This is because Yakult has sugar and dextrin, which will give a spike.
Optimising Yakult intake for glucose metabolism improvement
• Try choosing Yakult variants with less added sugar or switch to a sugar-free probiotic supplement to reduce overall sugar intake.
• Consider incorporating other fermented foods such as kombucha, pickled vegetables, and curd/ Greek yoghurt into your diet. This will enhance gut health and potentially improve glucose metabolism.
• You may want to consume Yakult or other probiotic foods with high-carbohydrate meals to reduce post-meal glucose spikes potentially.
• Experiment with different timing and frequency of Yakult consumption to find what works best for your body. It will potentially enhance its beneficial effects on glucose metabolism.
The probiotic strain found in Yakult, Lactobacillus casei Shirota, has been found to produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the gut. These SCFAs can stimulate the release of certain hormones and improve insulin sensitivity, leading to better glucose regulation. Additionally, probiotics may help reduce inflammation, a risk factor for type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
