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Lactobacillus Extract

Also known as: Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Probiotic bacteria, Probiotic supplements, Lactobacillus

Overview

Lactobacillus is a genus of gram-positive, facultative anaerobic or microaerophilic bacteria. They are a major part of the lactic acid bacteria group, converting lactose and other sugars to lactic acid. These bacteria are naturally found in various environments, including the human gastrointestinal tract, fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, and are also available as dietary supplements. Lactobacillus species are widely used as probiotics to support gut health, enhance immune function, and manage gastrointestinal disorders. They are known for their ability to survive passage through the stomach and adhere to the intestinal epithelium, where they exert beneficial effects by interacting with the gut microbiota, enhancing barrier function, modulating the immune system, and producing antimicrobial substances. Research on Lactobacillus is extensive, with numerous clinical trials and meta-analyses supporting their efficacy in various health conditions.

Benefits

Lactobacillus species offer several evidence-based health benefits. They are effective in improving gastrointestinal health, particularly in reducing the duration and frequency of acute infectious diarrhea in children. A meta-analysis showed that Lactobacillus reduces diarrhea duration by approximately 0.7 days and decreases stool frequency by 1.6 stools on day 2. Lactobacillus supplementation also significantly reduces total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, making it beneficial for improving lipid profiles. Furthermore, Lactobacillus has a positive effect on immune cells and cytokines, modulating the immune system. These benefits are particularly notable in children, the elderly, and overweight/obese adults. The effects on diarrhea and lipid profiles are statistically significant and clinically relevant, with benefits observed within days for gastrointestinal issues and weeks for metabolic improvements.

How it works

Lactobacillus species exert their beneficial effects through several mechanisms of action. Primarily, they interact with the gut microbiota, enhancing the gut barrier function and preventing the translocation of harmful substances. They also modulate the immune system by influencing cytokine production, such as TNF-α and IL-10, and affecting immune cell activity, including B cells and NK cells. Additionally, Lactobacillus produces antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria in the gut. While Lactobacillus is not absorbed systemically, it exerts local effects in the gastrointestinal tract, contributing to overall gut health and immune modulation.

Side effects

Lactobacillus is generally considered safe for most populations, but some side effects can occur. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas, which occur in more than 5% of users. Uncommon side effects are not consistently reported. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include the potential for systemic infections in severely immunocompromised individuals. There are no significant drug interactions reported, but caution is advised in critically ill patients or those with compromised immune systems. Lactobacillus is contraindicated in severe immunocompromised states. Overall, Lactobacillus is safe when used as directed, but individuals with underlying health conditions should consult with a healthcare provider before use.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Lactobacillus is typically ≥1 × 10^9 CFU per day. Optimal dosage ranges from 1 × 10^9 to 1 × 10^10 CFU per day. While the maximum safe dose is not well-defined, doses up to 1 × 10^11 CFU have been used without adverse effects. It is best taken with food to enhance survival through the stomach. Lactobacillus is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and tablets. Since Lactobacillus exerts local effects in the gut and is not absorbed systemically, there are no required cofactors. Adhering to these dosage guidelines ensures the safe and effective use of Lactobacillus supplements.

FAQs

How should I store Lactobacillus supplements?

Store Lactobacillus supplements as directed on the product label, typically in a cool, dry place. Proper storage helps maintain the viability of the live bacteria.

Is Lactobacillus safe for everyone?

Lactobacillus is generally safe, but caution is advised for immunocompromised individuals. Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions.

When is the best time to take Lactobacillus?

It is best to take Lactobacillus with meals to enhance the survival of the bacteria through the stomach's acidic environment.

How long does it take to see results from Lactobacillus?

The time to see results varies depending on the condition being addressed. Gastrointestinal issues may improve within days, while metabolic improvements may take weeks.

Are all Lactobacillus strains equally effective?

No, not all Lactobacillus strains are equally effective for all conditions. Different strains have different properties and may be more effective for specific health issues.

Research Sources

https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/109/4/678/64108/Lactobacillus-Therapy-for-Acute-Infectious – This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined the efficacy of Lactobacillus therapy for acute infectious diarrhea in children. The study found that Lactobacillus reduced the duration of diarrhea by 0.7 days and decreased stool frequency by 1.6 stools on day 2, supporting its use as a beneficial intervention for managing acute diarrhea in pediatric populations.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38940492/ – This study investigates the impact of probiotics on the gut-brain axis and mental health. It highlights the potential of probiotics, including Lactobacillus strains, to modulate the gut microbiota and influence brain function, suggesting a promising avenue for managing mental health conditions through gut-targeted interventions.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/gastroenterology/articles/10.3389/fgstr.2022.983075/full – This review discusses the role of probiotics in preventing and treating gastrointestinal diseases. It emphasizes the importance of strain-specific effects and highlights the potential of Lactobacillus and other probiotics to improve gut health by modulating the gut microbiota and enhancing the intestinal barrier function.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35820261/ – This study investigates the impact of probiotics on the gut-brain axis and mental health. It highlights the potential of probiotics, including Lactobacillus strains, to modulate the gut microbiota and influence brain function, suggesting a promising avenue for managing mental health conditions through gut-targeted interventions.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0178868 – This meta-analysis of RCTs assessed the effects of Lactobacillus supplementation on lipid profiles. The study found that Lactobacillus significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels, indicating its potential as a therapeutic intervention for improving lipid profiles and reducing cardiovascular risk.