Research synthesisModerate evidenceModerate effect6 studies · 6 beneficial · 0 neutral · 0 harmful
Across 6 studies, all 6 reported beneficial effects of Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 on insulin sensitivity, with 4 reaching statistical significance. The predominant effect size was moderate. The evidence primarily comes from meta-analyses and reviews focused on pregnant women, including those with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), suggesting benefits for improving insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and related glucose markers.
- Studied populations: pregnant women, especially those with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)
Caveats: Available evidence is overwhelmingly positive — clinical literature in this area is subject to publication bias (null-result studies are less likely to be published or indexed). All 6 studies are meta-analyses or reviews, but many lack specific dose and form data, and study durations were not consistently reported, limiting the ability to pinpoint optimal protocols. Most included studies are in pregnant or GDM populations—benefit in other groups is not well-established.
Generated Jul 11, 2026