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Lactobacillus jensenii

Q: Is Lactobacillus jensenii safe?

L. jensenii is generally safe, but rare cases of bacteremia or endocarditis can occur in vulnerable populations. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Q: When should I take Lactobacillus jensenii?

It is best taken with meals to enhance survival through the stomach, which improves its ability to colonize the gut or vaginal tract.

Q: How long before I see results?

Improvements in vaginal microbiota and reduction in gastrointestinal symptoms can be expected within a few weeks to months of consistent use.

Q: Is Lactobacillus jensenii a cure-all?

No, it is not a cure-all for all microbiota-related issues and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially in special populations.

Also known as: Lactobacillus jensenii, L. jensenii

Overview

Lactobacillus jensenii is a species of lactic acid bacteria naturally found in the human urogenital and gastrointestinal tracts. As a probiotic, it's primarily used to maintain or restore the balance of vaginal and gastrointestinal microbiota. Oral administration is common for improving vaginal dysbiosis and reducing gastrointestinal side effects. L. jensenii efficiently catabolizes carbohydrates like maltose, trehalose, and glucose. Research on L. jensenii is moderately mature, supported by several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses. The available evidence is generally of high quality, with well-designed RCTs and systematic reviews meeting proper methodology, adequate sample sizes, and statistical significance criteria. It is known for producing lactic acid, which helps maintain a healthy pH balance and inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria.

Benefits

Lactobacillus jensenii offers several evidence-based benefits. A meta-analysis of RCTs showed that oral administration of Lactobacillus strains, including L. jensenii, significantly reduced the Nugent score in women with vaginal dysbiosis (SMD -0.561, 95% CI: -0.935 to -0.186, P = 0.004), indicating improved vaginal microbiota. Additionally, in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy, probiotics including L. jensenii reduced the risk of diarrhea (RR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.52 to 0.99). Secondary effects may include reducing other gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating, although these effects are less quantified. Women with vaginal dysbiosis and patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy may particularly benefit from L. jensenii supplementation. Benefits can be observed within a few weeks to months.

How it works

Lactobacillus jensenii primarily works by colonizing the vaginal or gastrointestinal tract and producing lactic acid, which helps maintain a healthy pH balance and inhibits the growth of pathogenic bacteria. It interacts with the host immune system, enhancing the barrier function of the epithelial lining and modulating immune responses. L. jensenii interacts with the urogenital and gastrointestinal systems, influencing the local microbiota and immune environment. The bacteria utilize specific genes and metabolic pathways, such as those involved in carbohydrate utilization, to exert their effects. Administered orally, it colonizes the target areas without needing to be absorbed into the bloodstream, resulting in high bioavailability in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina.

Side effects

Lactobacillus jensenii is generally considered safe when used as directed. Common side effects (occurring in >5% of individuals) may include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are limited but could include allergic reactions or exacerbation of underlying conditions. Rare side effects (<1%) such as bacteremia or endocarditis have been reported, especially in immunocompromised individuals or those with underlying health conditions. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when using probiotics in patients with compromised immune systems or severe illnesses. It is contraindicated in patients with severe immunodeficiency or those who are critically ill. Pregnant women, postmenopausal women, and patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy should consult their healthcare provider before using L. jensenii supplements.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of Lactobacillus jensenii is not well-defined, but typical probiotic formulations contain 1-10 billion CFU (Colony-Forming Units) per serving. For vaginal health, doses ranging from 1-5 billion CFU per day have been used in clinical trials. For gastrointestinal health, doses can range from 1-10 billion CFU per day. There is no established maximum safe dose, but high doses above 10 billion CFU per day are not typically recommended without medical supervision. It is best taken with meals to enhance the survival of the bacteria through the stomach. Available in capsule, tablet, or powder form, the choice of which depends on individual preference and the specific health condition being addressed.

FAQs

Is Lactobacillus jensenii safe?

L. jensenii is generally safe, but rare cases of bacteremia or endocarditis can occur in vulnerable populations. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

When should I take Lactobacillus jensenii?

It is best taken with meals to enhance survival through the stomach, which improves its ability to colonize the gut or vaginal tract.

How long before I see results?

Improvements in vaginal microbiota and reduction in gastrointestinal symptoms can be expected within a few weeks to months of consistent use.

Is Lactobacillus jensenii a cure-all?

No, it is not a cure-all for all microbiota-related issues and should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, especially in special populations.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31012733/ – This meta-analysis of RCTs involving 178 women with vaginal dysbiosis found a significant reduction in Nugent score (SMD -0.561; 95% CI: -0.935 to -0.186; P = 0.004) after oral administration of Lactobacillus strains, including L. jensenii. The study indicates improved vaginal microbiota with probiotic use.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38064222/ – A systematic review and meta-analysis of 23 RCTs involving 1919 patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy showed a reduced risk of diarrhea (RR = 0.71; 95% CI: 0.52 to 0.99) with probiotic use, including L. jensenii. This suggests that probiotics can help mitigate gastrointestinal side effects during radiotherapy.
https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/msphere.00562-22 – A comparative genomic analysis of 61 strains of L. jensenii and L. mulieris revealed distinct genotypic and phenotypic differences, including unique carbohydrate utilization traits. This study highlights the genetic diversity and functional specialization within the Lactobacillus species.
https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.08.21.20178814v2.full – This study investigated the impact of probiotics on gastrointestinal side effects in patients undergoing pelvic radiotherapy. The results indicated a reduced risk of diarrhea and other gastrointestinal symptoms with probiotic use, supporting their role in managing radiotherapy-induced side effects.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2607/11/4/896 – This review provides an overview of the potential health benefits of Lactobacillus jensenii, focusing on its role in maintaining vaginal health and reducing gastrointestinal symptoms. It highlights the mechanisms of action and clinical evidence supporting its use as a probiotic supplement.