Effect of Multi-strain Probiotic Formulation on Students Facing Examination Stress: a Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

In this placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial, we have investigated the effect of multi-strain probiotic (Bacillus coagulansUnique IS2,Lactobacillus rhamnosusUBLR58,Bifidobacterium lactisUBBLa70,Lactobacillus plantarumUBLP40 (each of 2 billion CFU);Bifidobacterium breveUBBr01,Bifidobacterium infantisUBBI01 (each of 1 billion CFU)) capsule with glutamine (250 mg) on students facing examination stress. A total of 80 students (18-24 years) were enrolled and randomised to receive multi-strain probiotic or placebo capsules twice a day for 28 days (i.e. pre- and during examination). The stress was analysed at the baseline and the end of the treatment by using the perceived stress scale (PSS), depression anxiety stress scale (DASS), and state-trait anxiety inventory (STAI) questionnaire. The serum cortisol levels were also determined. As a result, at the end of the trial, a total of 74 students completed the study, and those who consumed probiotic capsules showed a significant reduction in PSS, DASS, and STAI scores, and serum cortisol levels from the baseline as compared with placebo. No adverse events were reported during the study. In conclusion, the multi-strain probiotic is effective in reducing stress associated with examination. CTRI/2019/03/018178.