Obesity is a complex and multifactorial disorder that has become one of most prevalent health issues of the 21st century. Recent evidence suggests that an altered composition and functionality of the gut microbiota plays a key role in the increased prevalence of obesity. In this regard, gut microbiota modulation through the diet emerges as an efficient approach for the management of obesity. We provide an overview of the current evidence regarding the potential benefits of functional foods containing probiotics and prebiotics on reduction of weight and body fat and the use of these nutritional ingredients for the development of tailor-made solutions to fight against the epidemic of obesity. ; Peer reviewed