What is the Impact of Probiotics on Weight Loss Maintenance in Individuals With Obesity?

Inclusion Criteria: * class I or II obesity (30 kg/m2 \< BMI \> 40 kg/m2) * weight stable (\<2 kg variation in weight within the last 3 months) * not currently dieting to lose weight * dietary intervention of 1000 kcal energy restriction for 8 weeks using a powder based low energy diet product, followed by 4 week weight stabilization phase (re-introduction of food) * women who are either post-menopausal, taking oral contraceptives or with a normal cycle (28 ± 2 days) Exclusion Criteria: * consumption of probiotics 6 months before taking part in the study * pregnant * breast-feeding * drug or alcohol abuse within the last two years * currently taking medication known to affect appetite or induce weight loss * enrolled in another obesity treatment program * history of psychological disorders * having had bariatric surgery * metabolic diseases (such as hypo/hyperthyroidism and diabetes type 1 or 2) * eating disorders * lactose intolerance * gastrointestinal (particularly cholelithiasis), kidney, liver, lung, cardiovascular disease * malignancies