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The Link between Lactobacillus, Motivation, and Exercise in Middle-Aged Women: a Pilot Series of N-of-1 Studies

Feasibility of administering an oral probiotic (Lactobacillus) to Middle-Aged Women and the effect on motivation and exercise: a Pilot Series of N-of-1 Studies

Status
Completed
Phases
Unknown
Study type
Interventional
Source
ANZCTR
Registry ID
ACTRN12625001251415
Enrollment
2
Registered
2025-11-11
Start date
2025-08-25
Completion date
2025-08-25
Last updated
2025-11-17

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

None listed

Brief summary

The Menopausal transition is linked with reduced physical activity and mood disturbances. Microbiome-targeted therapies such as oral Lactobacillus may influence motivation and exercise via the gut-brain axis.

Interventions

Intervention: Lactobacillus. paracasei Lpc-37®, 8.75 billion CFU twice daily Lactobacillus plantarum (299v) 10 billion CFU twice daily Duration: 6 weeks Administration: Oral capsule Monitor adhereance: daily surveys collecting self-reported data for motivation (IMI, SRQ-E), Gastrointestinal sx (GSRS), psychological well-being (GHQ-12), muscle soreness(VAS), menopause sx, exercise activity. Baseline 25/8/25 to 5/9/25 Intervention 6/9/25 to 17/10/25

Sponsors

Southern Cross University
Lead SponsorUniversity

Study design

Allocation
Non-randomised trial
Intervention model
Other
Primary purpose
Treatment
Masking
Open (masking not used)

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
All
Age
40 Years to 54 Years
Healthy volunteers
Yes

Inclusion criteria

Female aged 40 to 54. Lives in Adelaide, South Australia, Australia. Has access to the internet and email, with availability to complete a daily 3-5-minute online survey for the duration of the 8-week trial period. Currently engaging in resistance exercise or brisk walking, at least twice per week. Experiencing at least one, or a combination of, peri/menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain and stiffness, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and urinary incontinence (e.g., during laughter or exercise). Participants’ average daily diet must include at least three meals per day, with no highly restrictive diet regimes (e.g., Keto, carnivore, or low-fibre).

Exclusion criteria

Currently taking antibiotics or hormone replacement therapy. Has existing or active medically diagnosed gastrointestinal disease such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or diverticulitis. Medically diagnosed with hypertension. History of anaphylactic episodes, or severe allergic reactions.

Outcome results

None listed

Source: ANZCTR · Data processed: Feb 4, 2026