Investigating the effect of ethanol consumption and postbiotics obtained from Saccharomyces boulardii yeast on changes in weight and blood cholesterol in rats: An animal study

Articles in Press

Document Type : Pharmacology & Toxicology

Authors

1 Department of Comparative Bioscience, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

2 Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Ethanol consumption as a metabolic stressor can lead to increased blood cholesterol levels and weight changes. On the other hand, postbiotics, metabolic products obtained from the fermentation process by microorganisms such as the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii, have attracted attention due to their immune and metabolic modulating properties. Today, one of the newest solutions to reduce the toxic and side effects of chemicals and some drugs is the use of probiotics and postbiotics.
OBJECTIVES: This study was designed to investigate the effects of ethanol consumption and postbiotics obtained from Saccharomyces boulardii on weight changes and blood cholesterol levels in rats.
METHODS: 24 male rats were divided into four groups of six: control group, postbiotic group, ethanol group, and combined group (ethanol and postbiotic). In this study, weight and blood cholesterol changes were measured and recorded over 40 days, and rats were kept in the four groups every week. An enzymatic colorimetric method was used to measure blood cholesterol levels.
RESULTS: The results showed that ethanol consumption significantly increased blood cholesterol levels (P=0.002), while postbiotic consumption alone or in combination with ethanol decreased cholesterol levels. Also, significant weight loss was observed in the postbiotic receiving groups compared with the control group (P<0.001).
CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, these findings indicate that postbiotics, in addition to reducing blood cholesterol and weight loss, can also modulate the negative effects of ethanol consumption on weight and blood cholesterol levels. However, to prove the definitive effects of postbiotics on weight loss and blood cholesterol reduction, as well as their ability to modulate the negative effects of ethanol, additional studies and clinical trials are needed.

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Journal of Veterinary Research

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 July 2025

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