An Evaluation of Experimental Design for Probiotic and Synbiotic Use in the Treatment and Management of Type II Diabetes: A Scoping Review of the Literature

Purpose: The purpose of this systematic review is to critically analyze the published literature in order to summarize the general findings of the use of probiotics and synbiotics in the management of Type II Diabetes. The primary goal is to evaluate the quality and design of the articles to identify trends in the selected measurable outcomes across studies. The purpose of comparing outcomes and selected independent and dependent variables across studies is to identify commonalities and differences among experimental designs. By analyzing what has been done in this field so far, potential recommendations and/or protocols can be put forward for scientific debate and consideration. Formal recommendations and/or protocols for future studies would help make results more generalizable and, therefore, transferable, thereby advancing this research field efficiently and effectively.