CompletedNot Applicable

Kefir, Gut Microbiota, and Athletic Performance in Soccer Players

Turkey (Türkiye)21 participantsStarted 2024-05-01

Plain-language summary

This research work is a clinical trial that will assess the impact of kefir consumption on the gut microbiota profile and athletic performance of female soccer players of age 18-29 years. The participants were divided into two groups namely the kefir intervention group and the control group. The primary end points are the modifications in the alpha diversity of the gut microbiome and the beta diversity of the gut microbiome and also the athletic performance outcomes like VO2 max and finishing speed which will be measured using the 30-15 Intermittent Fitness Test. The other outcomes of the study are the changes in the body composition (measured through BIA and skinfold), the changes in the dietary intake and the variations in certain microbial genera such as Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii. The study will be the first to evaluate whether kefir intake can increase the microbial diversity, increase the VO2max and improve the body composition of professional athletes. The anticipated outcomes of this study are enhanced gut microbial diversity, enhanced VO2max and finishing speed, and positive alteration in the body composition parameters.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years

Sex

FEMALE

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion criteria: * Professional female soccer player * Aged between 18 and 35 years * Regular participation in a structured training program * No allergy or intolerance to kefir or dairy products * Willingness to voluntarily participate in the study * Signed informed consent form Exclusion criteria: * History of allergy or intolerance to kefir or dairy products * Presence of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, kidney failure) * Use of antibiotics or probiotic supplements within the last 3 months * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Inability to comply with the study protocol

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

Gut Microbiota Composition Change

Timeframe: At baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention (Week 5)

Athletic Performance Improvement

Timeframe: At baseline and after 4 weeks of intervention (Week 5)

Trial details

NCT IDNCT06753422

SponsorAcibadem University

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2024-06-05

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Gut Microbiota Diversity and Composition trials