The effect of 8 weeks probiotic supplementation on sleep quality in adults aged 18 years and over
This study is exploring a link between our gut health and how well we sleep. Scientists believe that different substances made by the bacteria in our gut might play a part in regulating sleep. The aim is to find out if taking a probiotic supplement every day for eight weeks can help adults aged 18 and over who aren't satisfied with their current sleep. Participants will either receive the probiotic or a placebo (a dummy pill), and neither they nor the researchers will know which until the study ends. Sleep quality will be measured using questionnaires and a special activity watch.
At a glance
What is this study about?
You know how important a good night's sleep is, and sometimes getting it can be a real challenge. This study is all about trying to understand if there's a connection between the helpful bacteria in our gut and how well we sleep. Researchers think that some things these gut bacteria produce might affect our body's systems that control sleep.
The main goal of this study is to see if taking a probiotic — a supplement containing live helpful bacteria — for eight weeks can make a difference to sleep quality. They're particularly interested in adults who feel their sleep isn't as good as it could be. To figure this out fairly, half of the participants will receive the active probiotic, and the other half will receive a 'dummy' pill, called a placebo. Nobody involved will know who is getting what until the study is over, which helps make the results more reliable.
Taking part would involve wearing an activity watch to track your sleep patterns and completing some questionnaires. You'd also provide a few saliva and stool samples. Everything will be explained clearly, and the researchers hope this study can shed more light on practical ways to improve sleep for many people.
Key takeaways
- Study examines if probiotics improve sleep for adults unhappy with their sleep.
- Participants will take either a probiotic or a dummy pill for eight weeks.
- Sleep quality tracked with an activity watch and questionnaires.
- Study involves home-based activities: taking supplements, completing surveys, and collecting samples.
- Compensation includes a £100 voucher and keeping the activity watch.
- Several conditions prevent participation, including taking sleep aids or having certain health issues.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 to 65 who aren't happy with their current sleep. However, not everyone can take part, as the researchers need a very specific group to make sure the results are clear and accurate.
You can't join if you already take any supplements or medicines to help you sleep, or if you have allergies to foods or supplements. Also, if you're pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, this study isn't suitable. People with stomach or gut conditions, or who have used antibiotics or certain pain medications recently, also can't participate.
Finally, if you have a medical condition that affects sleep, a diagnosed sleep problem, or your sleep is regularly disturbed by your environment (like a noisy home or caring for young children) or if you work night shifts, you won't be able to join. These rules help ensure the study focuses purely on the effect of the probiotic on general sleep dissatisfaction.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 65 years old?
- Are you unhappy with your current sleep?
- Do you currently NOT take any sleep-related supplements or medicines?
- Are you NOT pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding?
- Do you NOT have any ongoing stomach or gut diseases?
- Have you NOT used antibiotics in the last month?
What does participation involve?
If you're interested and found to be eligible (they'll check this with a questionnaire), a research pack will be sent to your home. This pack will include an activity watch, kits for saliva and stool samples, instructions, and the study supplement.
The study lasts for nine weeks in total. First, there's an 'observation week' where you'll wear the activity watch constantly and collect some saliva and stool samples. Then, for eight weeks, you'll take one supplement every morning. Throughout the study, you'll use a special app to complete questionnaires about your sleep, diet, gut health, mood, and general wellbeing. Female participants will also answer questions about their menstrual cycle. At the very end, you'll provide more saliva and stool samples. You won't need to visit any clinics; everything is done from home.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Newcastle UniversityApproximateNewcastle Upon Tyne, England
Common questions
What is a 'probiotic'?
Probiotics are live, healthy bacteria and yeasts that are good for your digestive system. They are often found in fermented foods or supplements.
What is a 'placebo'?
A placebo is a 'dummy' pill that looks just like the real supplement but doesn't contain any active ingredients. It's used to compare against the real treatment fairly.
How long will I need to be in the study?
The study lasts for a total of nine weeks: one week of observation, followed by eight weeks of taking the supplement.
Will I know if I'm taking the probiotic or the placebo?
No, neither you nor the researchers will know whether you are taking the probiotic or the placebo until the study is completely finished. This ensures the results are unbiased.
How do I get my £100 voucher?
You will receive a £100 Amazon voucher once you have fully completed all parts of the study, including the final samples and questionnaires.
How to find out more
Anthony Watson
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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