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The Association Between Body Mass Index and Probiotics Supplementation With Hospital Stay Duration and Symptoms Among Covid-19 Iranian Patients Publisher

Summary: Could probiotics change COVID-19 symptoms? An observational study linked use to less lethargy, while higher BMI tracked with more inflammation; larger trials are needed. #COVID19 #Microbiome

Mirzababaei A ; Shiraseb F ; Zarrinvafa Z ; Mohamadi A ; Noori S ; Habibi S ; Sadid M ; Khosravinia D ; Zandvakili A ; Mirzaei K
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Source: International Journal of Nutrition Sciences Published:2026


Abstract

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) can cause a severe respiratory disease and systemic complications. The gut microbiota plays an important role in immune regulation, while obesity may worsen COVID-19 outcomes. This study investigated the interaction between body mass index (BMI) and probiotic supplementation on COVID-19 symptoms and length of hospital stay. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 107 Iranian adults aged 20-60 years hospitalized with COVID-19 at Amir Alam Hospital, Tehran, Iran. Demographic characteristics, body composition, probiotic supplementation history, and COVID-19 symptoms were assessed using questionnaires and hospital records. Linear and binary logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations and interactions. Results: Probiotic consumption was negatively associated with lethargy (β=−3.09; 95%CI: −4.85, −1.32; p<0.01). BMI was positively associated with C-reactive protein (CRP) level (β=47.46; 95%CI: 5.24, 89.69; p=0.02). A correlation was observed between probiotic intake and lower BMI for duration of hospitalization (β=−3.28; 95%CI: −7.28, 0.00; p=0.05) and D-dimer level (β=−3.57; 95%CI: −31.35, 24.20; p=0.07). This association was also observed for diarrhea (OR=0.32; 95%CI: 0.01, 1.00; p=0.05) and stomachache (OR=0.43; 95%CI: 0.00, 1.45; p=0.09). Conclusion: Probiotic consumption was associated with lower lethargy, while higher BMI was correlated with an increased CRP level. The observed interactions between probiotic intake and BMI for hospitalization duration, D-dimer, and gastrointestinal symptoms warrant further investigation in larger longitudinal and randomized controlled studies. © International Journal of Nutrition Sciences.
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