Effects of Probiotics on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and in Family Members of Persons With MS
Effects of Probiotics on Inflammatory Biomarkers in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and in Family Members of Persons With MS
The goal of this study is to assess the effects of probiotics on persons with multiple sclerosis (MS), persons at higher genetic risk for MS (first degree family members of persons with MS), and healthy controls. Participants will be asked to consume probiotic containing chocolates (Bouchard Belgian Dark Chocolate Probiotic Napolitains containing 10 billion CFUs of bifidobacterium longum per day) for 6 weeks. Participants will undergo blood draws before and after the 6 weeks of probiotic containing chocolate and microbial metabolites and immune markers will be compared before and after the probiotics, as well as between groups.
The goal of this study is to assess the effects of probiotics in persons with MS (PwMS), persons at high genetic risk for MS (first degree family members of PwMS), and healthy controls. PwMS. Subjects undergo blood draws and will complete surveys on neurological symptoms (as relevant). Subjects are given a supply of individually wrapped probiotic containing chocolates (Bouchard Belgian Dark Chocolate Probiotic Napolitains) along with instructions on proper storage, dosage, and a diary to complete regarding supplement adherence. After a "ramp up" period of 3 days during which participants will consume take 2 chocolates per day, participants consume 5 chocolates per day (10 billion CFUs of bifidobacterium longum per day) for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks participants return the adherence diaries and answer questions about probiotic tolerance. They also repeat similar surveys and again undergo blood draws. Serum levels of microbial metabolites and peripheral blood immune profiles are assessed before and after supplementation.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: