Our intestines harbor billions of microscopic organisms that together form a complex microbiome that affects our health in many ways.
One specific gut bacterium, Lactobacillus reuteri, is receiving increasing attention due to the impressive benefits it can have for our overall health, from strengthening our immune system to supporting our digestion.
The 5 Key Takeaways
- Lactobacillus reuteri is one of the most promising probiotic bacteria with an impressive range of health benefits for the human body.
- Research shows that this bacterium strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and contributes to better digestion.
- The presence of L. reuteri in our bodies has declined over recent decades due to modern lifestyle habits, which may be linked to the increase in inflammatory diseases.
- This special bacterium produces antimicrobial substances that can inhibit harmful bacteria and positively influence the composition of our gut flora.
- You can increase the amount of L. reuteri in your gut through specific dairy products or supplements, with proven safety even in vulnerable populations.
What Are Probiotics Exactly?
According to the World Health Organization, probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in sufficient quantities, provide a health benefit to the host. Probiotics occur naturally in fermented foods such as yogurt.
Interest in probiotics has increased significantly in recent years, possibly because we increasingly face antibiotic resistance and people are showing more interest in natural health products.
Lactobacillus reuteri: A Special Gut Bacterium
Benefits of Lactobacillus reuteri
- Strengthens the immune system and reduces inflammation
- Produces antimicrobial substances that inhibit harmful bacteria
- Strengthens the intestinal barrier and reduces bacterial translocation
- Proven safe and well-tolerated, even at higher doses
Cons of Insufficient Lactobacillus reuteri
- Possibly increased risk of inflammatory diseases
- Reduced resistance to harmful gut bacteria
- Possibly poorer absorption of nutrients and minerals
- Weaker intestinal barrier and increased risk of “leaky gut”
A Wonder Bacterium with Impressive Properties
Lactobacillus reuteri was first isolated in 1962 and is characterized as a species that thrives in low-oxygen environments and naturally colonizes the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals.
This bacterium can withstand a wide range of pH environments, employs various mechanisms to inhibit harmful microorganisms, and secretes antimicrobial substances that keep unwanted bacteria in check.
How Lactobacillus reuteri Can Improve Your Health
Research in both animals and humans has shown that L. reuteri has numerous health effects, including reducing infections, improving food tolerance, and enhancing the absorption of nutrients, minerals, and vitamins.
Additionally, this bacterium can reduce inflammatory responses in the body, promote the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, and prevent bacterial translocation (the movement of bacteria from the gut to other tissues).
Glossary
- Microbiome: The totality of microorganisms that live in or on our bodies
- Probiotics: Live microorganisms that provide a health benefit when consumed
- Lactobacillus reuteri: A specific probiotic bacterium with diverse health benefits
- Bacterial translocation: The movement of bacteria from the gut to other tissues
Modern Lifestyle and the Decline of Lactobacillus reuteri
Over the past decades, a decline has been observed in the presence of L. reuteri in humans, likely due to our modern lifestyle with more frequent antibiotic use, Western dietary patterns, and improved hygiene.
Notably, this decline coincides with an increase in inflammatory diseases during the same period, which may suggest a link between the two developments.
How Can You Get More Lactobacillus reuteri in Your Body?
You can increase the amount of L. reuteri in your gut by taking probiotic supplements that contain this specific bacterium or by consuming certain fermented dairy products.
Various clinical studies have shown that a daily dose of up to 2.9 billion colony-forming units (CFU) is safe and well-tolerated by people, even vulnerable groups such as children and people with weakened immune systems.
| Food Source | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Breast Milk | Naturally present in some women; contributes to the transfer of L. reuteri to the baby. |
| Fermented Dairy (such as yogurt and kefir) | May contain L. reuteri, provided the bacterial strain has been specifically added. |
| Probiotic Supplements | The most reliable source of specific L. reuteri strains, such as DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475. |
| Fermented Sausage (such as salami) | Traditional fermentation may contain natural L. reuteri. |
| Cheese (certain aged varieties) | May contain traces of L. reuteri, depending on the fermentation process. |
DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 6475 are specific strains of the bacterium Lactobacillus reuteri. Here’s what they mean exactly:
🧬 What Are Bacterial Strains?
Each bacterial species, such as Lactobacillus reuteri, consists of different strains. A strain is a genetically unique version of the bacterium, with its own properties. Think of it like different dog breeds within the species “dog” — all dogs, but with unique characteristics.
Explanation of the Two Mentioned Strains:
| Strain Name | Characteristics and Use |
|---|---|
| L. reuteri DSM 17938 | Derived from an original strain isolated from breast milk. Widely used in baby probiotics (such as BioGaia drops). Known for safety and effectiveness on gut health. |
| L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 | Studied for anti-inflammatory effects and support of immune system and bone health. Often used in supplements for adults. |
These strains are registered with microbiological collections:
-
DSM = Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen (German Collection of Microorganisms).
-
ATCC = American Type Culture Collection (American reference collection for biological materials).
Conclusion
Lactobacillus reuteri is an impressive probiotic bacterium that has the potential to improve various aspects of our health, from strengthening our immune system to promoting a healthy gut flora.
Verified Sources
- Role of Lactobacillus reuteri in Human Health and Diseases – Overview of the role of L. reuteri in human health and various diseases.
- Lactobacillus reuteri and fecal microbiota development in piglets – Study on how L. reuteri is transferred from mother and affects the gut flora of piglets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Exactly Is Lactobacillus reuteri?
Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic bacterium that occurs naturally in the human gastrointestinal tract. It belongs to the group of lactic acid bacteria and has various scientifically proven health benefits.
What Health Benefits Does Lactobacillus reuteri Offer?
This bacterium offers several benefits, including strengthening the immune system, reducing inflammation, improving digestion, and protecting against harmful microorganisms. It can also contribute to better nutrient absorption.
How Can I Increase My Intake of Lactobacillus reuteri?
You can get L. reuteri through specific probiotic supplements that contain this bacterial strain. There are also fermented dairy products that may contain this bacterium, but always check the label to be sure which probiotic strains are included.
Is Lactobacillus reuteri Safe for Everyone?
Various clinical studies show that L. reuteri is safe for most people, including children and even people with weakened immune systems. Daily doses of up to 2.9 billion units (colony-forming units = CFU) have been shown to be well-tolerated.
Why Has the Amount of Lactobacillus reuteri in Humans Declined?
The decline is likely caused by various aspects of our modern lifestyle, such as more frequent antibiotic use, changes in dietary patterns (particularly the Western diet), and improved hygiene. This decline coincides with an increase in inflammatory diseases.
