In 2018 the Demographic and Health Survey estimated that 68% of women and 31% of men are overweight or obese in South Africa and that South Africa is the most obese country in sub-Saharan Africa with the highest prevalence of diabetes on the continent. A person is considered overweight if they have a BMI (body mass index ) of 25 or above, but lower than 30, whereas a person is considered obese when they have a BMI of 30 or higher. By losing weight you can achieve your optimal body mass index which will lower your risk for chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

The flora in your gut has a huge impact on your body weight and your body mass index. Even if you are on a calorie-restricted diet , exercise regularly and follow a healthy lifestyle programme your ability to lose weight could be impaired if your gut still contains high levels of the wrong type of bacteria.  Probiotics have always been associated primarily with gastrointestinal health but new research shows that the right balance of gut microflora can benefit other systems of the body including speeding up metabolism and supporting the brain and heart. 

Bifidobacterium lactis, also known as B. Lactis, is a specific type of bacteria that is being hailed as the superstar for gut health. Clinical studies show that Bifidobacterium lactis helps control body fat mass, trunk fat mass, waist circumference and decreased energy intake. Bifidobacterium lactis has also been shown to increase lean body mass, improve gastrointestinal symptoms and well-being and even improve blood sugar balance and reduce inflammation in the body.

A human clinical trial to support weight loss in Finland showed that 224 obese adults took a Bifidobacteriumprobiotic once a day for 6 months and the results were that they all had increased weight loss and improved energy levels. MiBiotix SP Shape combined with a healthy lifestyle and controlled diet, supports weight loss and an optimal body mass index, controls body fat mass, controls waist size, helps cut down calories and speeds up metabolism.