Dietary probiotic intervention for childhood obesity management: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Childhood and adolescent obesity are a global health concern, with unclear efficacy of probiotics as an intervention. Objectives: This meta-analysis evaluates probiotics’ effects on obesity-related metrics (body mass index (BMI), weight, lipid profiles) in children/adolescents (2–18 years) compared to placebo or no intervention. Methods: We searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases for randomized trials up to October 2024. Data extraction and analysis were conducted employing weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) via fixed/random-effects models. Study quality, publication bias, and sensitivity were assessed. Results: Nine studies were included. Probiotics significantly reduced BMI (WMD: –1.57; 95% CI: –2.55 to –0.58; P = 0.002) but showed no significant impact on weight, waist circumference, lipid parameters, or other anthropometric measures. No publication bias was detected, and sensitivity analysis confirmed robustness. Conclusions: Probiotics effectively reduce BMI in obese children and adolescents, supporting their potential role in obesity management. This meta-analysis has been registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024610790).