Role of Probiotics in Enhancing the Effects of Physiotherapy in Patients with Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) refers to a constellation of metabolic disturbances such as central obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and hypertension that together heighten the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Physiotherapy, particularly exercise-based interventions, is pivotal in improving metabolic health and physical function in MetS patients. Recent evidence suggests that gut microbiota modulation through probiotics may complement physiotherapeutic approaches by improving metabolic control, inflammation, and muscle function. Probiotic bacteria are live microorganisms incorporated into foods that confer health benefits to the host. They are commonly present in fermented products such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and soybean-based foods like miso and natto. Probiotics exert a wide range of beneficial effects, including the modulation of gastrointestinal function and related disorders, enhancement of immune responses, and improvement of conditions such as hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and allergies. This article reviews the mechanisms through which probiotics enhance the outcomes of physiotherapy in metabolic syndrome, emphasizing their role in systemic inflammation reduction, insulin sensitivity improvement, and overall success of the interventions.