The Shirota strain is a specific type of beneficial bacteria, recognized for its positive influence on human health. It belongs to a group of microorganisms known as probiotics, which are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host.
Unveiling the Shirota Strain
The scientific name for the Shirota strain is Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota, though it was formerly classified as Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota. This strain was first isolated and cultured in 1930 by Japanese microbiologist Dr. Minoru Shirota at Kyoto Imperial University. Dr. Shirota’s pioneering work focused on preventive medicine, driven by a concern for infectious diseases and malnutrition prevalent in Japan at the time.
Dr. Shirota was dedicated to finding a robust lactic acid bacteria strain that could survive the harsh digestive environment and reach the intestines alive. His efforts led to the successful culturing of this specific strain, which was subsequently named after him. The Shirota strain gained widespread recognition through its incorporation into Yakult, a fermented milk drink first introduced in 1935, serving as its primary commercial vehicle.
Mechanism of Action
The Shirota strain functions by navigating the challenging conditions of the human digestive tract to exert its effects in the intestines. It demonstrates a notable ability to survive the acidic environment of the stomach and the presence of bile acids. This resilience allows a sufficient number of these beneficial bacteria to reach the intestines alive, where they can then colonize and interact with the existing gut microbiota.
Once in the intestines, the Shirota strain contributes to a balanced gut environment by increasing the population of beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful ones. This modulation of the gut flora can also involve the production of beneficial compounds, influencing the overall intestinal environment.
Health Contributions
The Shirota strain offers several specific health benefits, primarily centered on digestive health and immune system modulation. It supports regular bowel movements, proving beneficial for individuals experiencing either loose stools or constipation. Regular consumption has been shown to improve stool consistency, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass.
Beyond digestive regularity, the Shirota strain helps to improve the overall intestinal environment by reducing harmful substances. Research indicates it can decrease compounds like indican, which are produced by intestinal bacteria.
The Shirota strain has also been investigated for its impact on immune function, including its ability to increase the activity of natural killer (NK) cells. These cells are part of the innate immune system and target abnormal or virally infected cells, contributing to the body’s defenses. The strain’s immunomodulatory properties can help to maintain normal immune function, even during periods of stress, and have been associated with a reduced incidence of upper respiratory tract infections.
Incorporating Probiotics into Your Diet
To consistently benefit from the Shirota strain, individuals can incorporate it into their daily diet. The most common and direct source of this specific strain is the fermented milk drink Yakult. Each bottle of Yakult typically contains a substantial number of Lacticaseibacillus paracasei strain Shirota, often exceeding 6.5 billion live cells.
For consistent probiotic intake, daily consumption of Yakult is recommended to ensure a continuous presence of the beneficial bacteria in the intestines. It is important to remember that probiotics like the Shirota strain are part of a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, which includes adequate hydration and consumption of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to enhance their effectiveness.