Sugar is a siren song to many people. But some friendly gut bacteria might help you resist its lure. At least that’s what ads for some probiotics claim.
For years consumers have been bombarded with supposed health benefits of taking probiotics: improve gut health, get more energy and “feel lighter.” Some also claim to reduce sugar cravings.
But can a daily dose of bacteria really calm cravings for candy and cookies?
The idea is not totally out there. Studies with mice have found that missing some bacteria, Lactobacillus salivarius, L. gasseri, L. johnsonii and Muribaculaceae, can send the animals on sugar benders. And it’s not just sweets; mice missing