The Effect of Synbiotic and Diet Modification Among Overweight or Obese Hong Kong Chinese

Synbiotic is a nutritional supplement that contains both prebiotic and probiotic. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, while prebiotics are foods that help the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the gut. In the study, dietary intervention with fruits and vegetables and/or synbiotic supplementation with be administered to Hong Kong Chinese subjects for eight weeks. Changes in the composition and diversity of intestinal microbiota, and markers indicative of obesity, chronic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction will be assessed throughout the whole period. This study will further provide a scientific basis for the intake of synbiotics for reducing the risk of overweight and obesity among Hong Kong Chinese. Furthermore, the results will bridge to further research into the most desirable gut microbiome profile, hence facilitating personalised nutrition for optimal health.

Inclusion Criteria: * Waist circumference ≥90cm in men and ≥80cm in women * BMI \>23.0kg/m2 Exclusion Criteria: * Practicing dietary restrictions * Using cholesterol-lowering, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory drugs or Chinese medicines * Consuming laxatives, any gastrointestinal medication, probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics or antibiotics * Smokers * Alcohol abuser * Currently pregnant or lactating