New research presented at the Multiple Sclerosis Trust Annual Conference 2025 is adding to growing scientific interest in the relationship between the gut microbiome and neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Increasing evidence suggests the gut-brain axis may play a role in the pathogenesis of MS, with previous research linking the condition to alterations in the gut microbiome and increased intestinal permeability.
The feasibility trial, conducted by researchers at Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, explored the safety, acceptability and potential efficacy of a 12-week probiotic intervention using Symprove, the liquid, multi-strain gut supplement, in people living with MS. Symprove was chosen for this study as it has shown promise in other neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s Disease.
Participants were recruited remotely through online MS groups, with data collected before and after the intervention period. Primary outcomes focused on recruitment, retention, adherence, acceptability and safety, while secondary outcomes included quality-of-life and symptom measures.
A total of 29 participants were recruited into the study, with 90% adherence over 12 weeks, suggesting the intervention was both feasible and acceptable for people living with MS. Mild gastrointestinal symptoms reported during the intervention were transient and expected. Researchers also reported high acceptability across all seven domains assessed.
Alongside these findings, self-reported questionnaire data demonstrated significant improvements in overall quality-of-life and cognitive function scores at 12 weeks (p=0.007). Participants specifically reported big improvements in bloating, bowel habit, energy and brain fog.
Dr Anouska Carter, Study Principal Investigator, Sheffield Hallam University, says: “Our results suggest that Symprove is well accepted and tolerated by people with MS, with initial findings demonstrating a positive impact on quality of life and cognitive function.”
While further research is needed to confirm and extend these findings, the study adds to emerging evidence exploring the role of the gut microbiome in neurological conditions such as MS.
The poster presented at the MS Trust conference can be viewed here.
About Symprove:
Symprove is the UK's No.1 live and active bacteria supplement*.
Founded in 1986, Symprove has spent decades investing in independent scientific research to help build a better understanding of the gut microbiome and the role it plays in overall health.
Unlike many supplements, Symprove's unique water-based formula is designed to deliver live and active bacteria to the gut, where they can have the greatest impact. It contains four strains of live and active bacteria, is suitable for everyday use and is free from dairy, gluten and artificial additives.
Today, Symprove is available on subscription from symprove.com and at leading UK retailers including Tesco, Boots, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Superdrug, and Holland & Barrett.
For more information, visit www.symprove.com.
For samples or more information, please get in touch with press@symprove.com or call 01252 413 600.
* Source Euromonitor International Ltd; Consumer Health 2026ed., Symprove retail value sales, UK 2025 data
