Simple food combo may outperform omega-3 supplements for reducing inflammation

When kefir was combined with prebiotic fiber, researchers observed a stronger effect. Prebiotic fiber feeds healthy bacteria in the gut, helping them grow and function more effectively, the study explained.

As those beneficial bacteria thrive, they produce natural substances that help calm inflammation in the body.

Those who took omega-3 supplements or fiber alone also improved, but not to the same degree, the study suggested.

"Our study shows that while all three dietary approaches reduced inflammation, the synbiotic - combining fermented kefir with a diverse prebiotic fiber mix - had the most powerful and wide-ranging effects," said Amrita Vijay, a gut microbiome scientist who led the research.

The findings suggest that combining probiotics and prebiotics may provide broader support than relying on a single supplement.

"This suggests that the interaction between gut microbes and dietary fiber may be key to supporting immune balance and metabolic health," Vijay said.

The team plans to further investigate how synbiotic supplementation may affect individuals with chronic inflammatory disorders.