Impact of Probiotic Supplementation and High-Intensity Interval Training on Primary Dysmenorrhea Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read MoreI am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.
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Divine Aleru
Read More
Researched by:
-
Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Read More
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This randomized, double-blind, controlled trial investigated the effects of probiotic supplementation and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on primary dysmenorrhea (PD). Researchers aimed to understand how these interventions influenced menstrual distress, pain severity, inflammation, hormonal modulation, and physical fitness in women. Participants were divided into different treatment groups receiving either HIIT, probiotics, both, or a placebo, with pre- and post-intervention assessments of various biochemical markers, hormone levels, menstrual pain, and overall physical health.
Who was studied?
The study included 65 female participants aged 18–40 years, diagnosed with primary dysmenorrhea, from a Taiwanese university. Participants were randomly assigned to control or intervention groups. Exclusion criteria included the use of hormone therapy, gastrointestinal disorders, and other medical conditions. Data on menstrual health and physical fitness were gathered before and after the 10-week intervention.
Most important findings
The study found significant improvements in menstrual distress, pain severity, and physical fitness among those who participated in HIIT, particularly in the groups that combined HIIT with probiotics. Pain levels, as measured by the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) and Visual Analog Scale (VAS), significantly decreased in the HIIT groups compared to those receiving only probiotics or placebo. Hormonal changes were also observed, with the HIIT groups experiencing a decrease in estradiol and prolactin, and an increase in progesterone and cortisol, indicating a hormonal modulation effect. However, probiotics alone did not significantly impact physical fitness or hormone levels.
Key implications
This study suggests that combining probiotic supplementation with HIIT may offer a promising complementary approach for managing primary dysmenorrhea by reducing pain and improving physical fitness. While probiotics showed some benefit in alleviating premenstrual symptoms, the lack of hormonal and inflammatory modulation calls for further research to explore the mechanisms through which probiotics interact with other treatments. The results support the integration of exercise and probiotics in holistic care strategies for women suffering from dysmenorrhea.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer significant health benefits when administered in adequate amounts. They primarily work by modulating the gut microbiome, supporting a balanced microbial ecosystem. Probiotics have been shown to improve gut health, modulate immune responses, and even influence metabolic and mental health disorders. With growing evidence supporting their therapeutic potential, probiotics are increasingly recognized for their role in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and even mental health conditions like depression and anxiety through their impact on the gut-brain axis.
Primary Dysmenorrhea
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is painful menstrual cramps without underlying pelvic pathology, predominantly caused by elevated prostaglandins inducing uterine contractions and ischemia. Managing primary dysmenorrhea (PD) requires understanding its complex mechanisms involving prostaglandins, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Treatments include NSAIDs, hormonal therapies, and promising complementary options like probiotics, vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, exercise, yoga, acupuncture, and massage, significantly improving women's quality of life.