2.6.1. Placebo
The main component of the placebo was microcrystalline cellulose (MC). MC is refined wood pulp, a connective agent added to prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements. It is a white, free-flowing powder. Chemically, it is an inert substance, is not degraded during digestion and has no appreciable absorption. In large quantities, it provides dietary bulk and may lead to a laxative effect. The MC used for the placebo in this study was provided by NUTRILINEA S.r.l., Italy, a company certified for the design and production of food supplements. The placebo contained the same amount of the components maltodextrin, sucralose and cream flavour as the probiotic and synbiotic test products (