Conclusion
In summary, using a metagenomics approach, this study demonstrated changes in abundance of functional genes following 8 weeks of multi-strain probiotic consumption. No significant changes were observed in stool form or frequency, fecal biochemistry, or methane and hydrogen breath tests. This lack of change was expected and attributed to the study being carried out in a healthy population. Results from this study have the potential to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of action of the 14 strain probiotic blend in healthy adults. This to our knowledge has never been done before and this open label study is a stepping stone many future research to come. Understanding how functional alterations in microbial genes and subsequent metabolic pathway alteration can contribute to improve our knowledge in this rapidly evolving area of research.