Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL
Also known as: Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL, L. plantarum, probiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Overview
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, specifically the LPLDL strain, is a well-researched probiotic bacterium naturally found in fermented foods and the human gastrointestinal tract. It is widely utilized in dietary supplements for its diverse health benefits, primarily focusing on gastrointestinal health, immune system modulation, and support for cardiovascular and oral health. Extensive research, including numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, supports its efficacy. This probiotic is recognized for its ability to improve gut microbiota composition, reduce systemic inflammation, alleviate digestive symptoms, and positively influence lipid profiles. Its robust evidence base makes it a prominent choice for individuals seeking to enhance their overall health through probiotic supplementation.
Benefits
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL offers a range of evidence-based benefits. It significantly improves periodontal health, evidenced by reduced pocket depth and bleeding on probing (p < 0.001), and provides substantial gastrointestinal relief, decreasing abdominal pain and improving digestive symptoms (p < 0.001). Cardiovascular benefits include a notable reduction in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (p < 0.05). Furthermore, it effectively reduces systemic inflammation markers like C-reactive protein (p < 0.001) and exhibits immunomodulatory effects by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 (−0.48 pg/mL, p < 0.05). Secondary benefits include potential neuroprotective effects in managing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases and enhancing overall host immunity by balancing cytokine levels. These benefits are particularly relevant for individuals with periodontal disease, gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular risk factors, and those prone to inflammation or with compromised immunity. Benefits typically manifest within weeks to a few months of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL exerts its effects through several key mechanisms. It modulates the gut microbiota by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and producing antimicrobial substances that inhibit pathogens. A crucial aspect of its action is its ability to regulate the host immune response; it decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4 and TNF-α while increasing anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10. This immunomodulation contributes to reduced systemic inflammation. Additionally, LPLDL influences lipid metabolism pathways, which helps in reducing cholesterol levels. As a live probiotic, it transiently colonizes the gut, with its benefits stemming from local interactions within the gastrointestinal tract and subsequent systemic immune modulation, rather than direct absorption into the bloodstream.
Side effects
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL is generally considered safe, with a long history of use in both food and supplements. High-quality clinical trials and meta-analyses have reported no significant adverse effects. The most common side effects, occurring in less than 5% of individuals, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. Rare cases of infection have been reported in severely immunocompromised patients, but this is not a concern for the general population. There are no significant documented drug interactions, and probiotics are generally safe to use alongside most medications. Contraindications include severe immunocompromise or critical illness, where caution is advised. While generally safe for adults, data in pregnant women and children are limited, though the risk is considered low.
Dosage
The effective dosage of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL typically ranges from 1 billion to 10 billion CFU (colony-forming units) daily, based on clinical studies. Most clinical trials demonstrating measurable benefits utilize an optimal dosage of 5–10 billion CFU per day. Doses up to 20 billion CFU per day have been used without any reported safety concerns, indicating a wide safety margin. This probiotic can be taken with or without food, but consistency in daily intake is crucial for optimal results. It is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and fermented food products. Formulations often include protective coatings to ensure the survival of the bacteria through gastric acid. While not strictly required, cofactors such as prebiotics (e.g., inulin) may enhance colonization and overall efficacy.
FAQs
Is Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL safe for long-term use?
Yes, long-term use of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LPLDL is generally considered safe, with minimal side effects reported in clinical studies and a long history of use.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Some benefits, particularly gastrointestinal symptom relief, may be noticed within a few weeks. Immunomodulatory and lipid-lowering effects may take longer, typically a few months, to become apparent.
Can it be used with antibiotics?
Yes, it can be used with antibiotics. However, it is recommended to take LPLDL at a different time of day than antibiotics to help preserve the viability of the probiotic bacteria.
Does it help with all digestive issues?
While effective for certain gastrointestinal conditions, its benefits are strain- and condition-specific. It is not a universal remedy for all digestive issues, but it has shown efficacy for specific symptoms like abdominal pain and general digestive discomfort.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38816672/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 RCTs found that L. plantarum supplementation significantly improved periodontal health, gastrointestinal symptoms, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles. Despite some heterogeneity in strains and dosages, the results were statistically robust, highlighting its broad therapeutic potential.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38474254/ – This systematic review explored the role of L. plantarum in managing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases. It indicated potential symptomatic benefits, suggesting an emerging therapeutic application beyond traditional gut health, though it emphasized the need for more high-quality randomized controlled trials.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.643420/full – This meta-analysis focused on the immunomodulatory effects of L. plantarum, analyzing cytokine changes across multiple RCTs. It demonstrated significant reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4, supporting the probiotic's role in balancing host immunity and reducing inflammation.
