Researchers have discovered that a combination of probiotics and prebiotics, known as synbiotics, may be more effective at reducing chronic inflammation than fish oil. The findings, published in the Journal of Translational Medicine, suggest synbiotics could offer a novel approach to managing conditions linked to inflammation.
Chronic, low-grade inflammation is increasingly recognized as a key factor in the development of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and immune dysfunction. Understanding how to effectively address inflammation is therefore crucial for public health.
The study compared the effects of synbiotics (fermented kefir plus 10g of prebiotic fiber), 500mg of omega-3 fatty acid fish oil, and 20g of inulin fiber over a six-week period. Although all three interventions reduced inflammatory markers, the synbiotic group demonstrated the most comprehensive and significant improvements.
“In addition to a decrease in TNF-α, levels of IL-6 and IFN-γ, among other inflammation-related proteins, were also significantly reduced,” explained a health expert. The research also indicated a correlation between increased levels of butyrate – a metabolite produced by gut bacteria – and decreased levels of IL-6, suggesting the gut microbiome plays a critical role in this process.
The expert emphasized that chronic inflammation underlies many chronic diseases, and the synergistic effect of probiotics and prebiotic fiber in combating inflammation is highly effective, even surpassing the well-known benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. This highlights the importance of the gut not just as a digestive organ, but as a key regulator of immunity and metabolism.
These findings suggest that focusing on gut health through synbiotic supplementation could be a promising strategy for reducing inflammation and improving overall health. Further research is ongoing to explore the full potential of synbiotics in preventing and managing inflammatory conditions.
The study also builds on existing research regarding the benefits of fish oil. Nutritional experts have previously highlighted the anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic properties of omega-3 fatty acids, specifically EPA and DHA.
Another recent study, published on February 15, 2026, confirmed that synbiotics are the strongest anti-inflammatory supplement, with noticeable improvements within six weeks. The research compared synbiotics to fish oil and inulin fiber.
