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The Role of Nutraceuticals and Probiotics in Addition to Lifestyle Intervention in the Management of Childhood Obesity—Part 1: Metabolic Changes

Summary

This review examines how natural compounds and beneficial bacteria can help obese children improve their metabolic health when combined with diet and exercise changes. Key findings show that supplements like white mulberry leaf extract and special fiber products can help reduce weight, improve blood sugar control, and lower cholesterol. The evidence suggests these natural interventions are promising but need more large-scale studies in children to confirm their effectiveness and optimal dosing.

Background

Childhood obesity is a growing global health challenge linked to genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Obese children face increased risk of metabolic disorders including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. First-line treatment involves lifestyle modifications, but adherence is poor, creating interest in alternative treatments such as nutraceuticals.

Objective

This narrative review examines the role of nutraceutical compounds and probiotics as complements to lifestyle interventions in managing childhood obesity and its metabolic comorbidities. The review synthesizes evidence on mechanisms of action and efficacy of various nutraceuticals in improving metabolic health outcomes in obese children and adolescents.

Results

Evidence demonstrates that nutraceutical compounds including Policaptil Gel Retard, white mulberry leaf extract, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics positively influence BMI, glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and inflammation markers. Specific findings include improved insulin sensitivity, reduced postprandial glucose and triglyceride levels, and favorable modifications to gut microbiota composition.

Conclusion

Integration of nutraceuticals into treatment regimens alongside lifestyle modifications may improve metabolic health and reduce obesity-related complications in children. However, most evidence requires validation through larger, longer-term pediatric clinical trials with standardized dosages and formulations before widespread clinical implementation.
  • Published in:Nutrients,
  • Study Type:Narrative Review,
  • Source: PMID: 40431370, DOI: 10.3390/nu17101630
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