Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that, when consumed, contribute to overall well-being. These live bacteria are often found in fermented foods and dietary supplements. Lactobacillus gasseri is a specific probiotic strain known for its unique health applications. This article explores the characteristics and potential benefits of Lactobacillus gasseri.
Understanding Lactobacillus Gasseri
Lactobacillus gasseri is a species of lactic acid bacteria naturally found in the human body. It commonly resides in the gastrointestinal tract and is also part of the lower reproductive tract microbiota in healthy women. This bacterium was first identified in 1980.
This strain is distinguished by characteristics that enable its colonization and beneficial actions. It tolerates low pH environments and resists bile salts, which are important for its survival through the digestive tract. L. gasseri also adheres to host epithelial cells, and some strains produce antimicrobial compounds called bacteriocins, such as gassericin A and lactocillin.
Specific Health Benefits
Weight Management and Metabolic Health
Lactobacillus gasseri is studied for its potential role in weight management and metabolic health. Certain strains, such as L. gasseri SBT2055, may help reduce abdominal fat, body weight, and waist and hip circumferences. For example, studies have shown reductions in visceral fat area with specific L. gasseri strains. This suggests the probiotic may influence lipid absorption and promote fat excretion.
Research also indicates L. gasseri’s involvement in regulating blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation, contributing to better metabolic health. However, while some studies show positive effects on body weight and fat reduction, others present conflicting results with no significant changes. These varied outcomes may be due to differences in probiotic strains and dosages across studies.
Digestive Health
Lactobacillus gasseri contributes to a balanced gut microbiota, which is fundamental for digestive well-being. This probiotic strain helps regulate the gut by inhibiting harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.
It may also help mitigate occasional digestive discomfort, such as gas and bloating, by restoring a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Furthermore, L. gasseri has been studied for its potential to alleviate diarrhea and suppress Helicobacter pylori infection, supporting overall gastrointestinal function.
Vaginal Health
Lactobacillus gasseri is a dominant species in the vaginal microbiota of healthy women. It maintains a healthy vaginal environment by producing lactic acid, which keeps the vaginal pH acidic (typically below 4.5). This acidic environment discourages the growth of pathogenic bacteria and fungi, including Gardnerella vaginalis and Candida albicans.
High levels of L. gasseri in the vaginal microbiome correlate with lower levels of certain sexually transmitted infection-causing pathogens. Some strains demonstrate strong antimicrobial activity against these pathogens. This probiotic can also enhance mucosal immune responses and may help reduce unpleasant vaginal odors by neutralizing compounds like trimethylamine and ammonia.
Immune System Support
Probiotics, including Lactobacillus gasseri, can interact with the host’s immune system, potentially enhancing its function. These interactions occur through various mechanisms, such as modulating the composition and metabolic functions of the gut microbiota. L. gasseri stimulates the body’s immune response by influencing immune cell activity and antibody production.
Studies show that consuming L. gasseri can increase the proportion and activity of phagocytic cells, including monocytes and neutrophils. It may also increase natural killer (NK) cells and IgA concentrations. Furthermore, L. gasseri can induce the production of various cytokines, which play a role in immune regulation.
Incorporating Lactobacillus Gasseri
Individuals can obtain Lactobacillus gasseri through widely available dietary supplements, often in capsule or powder form. When selecting a supplement, checking the number of colony-forming units (CFUs) is helpful, as many probiotic products contain between 1 billion and 10 billion CFUs per dose.
While supplements provide consistent and often higher doses, L. gasseri can also be found in some fermented foods. Examples include plain, unsweetened yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. It is important to look for fermented foods where probiotics are “added” rather than just “used during making,” as heating processes can kill the beneficial bacteria. There is no universally established recommended dose for Lactobacillus gasseri, and specific dosages often vary depending on the product and intended use.
Important Considerations and Safety
Lactobacillus gasseri is generally considered safe for consumption, with few reported side effects. Some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort, such as gas or bloating, when first starting a probiotic supplement. These effects are temporary and tend to subside as the body adjusts.
Certain populations should exercise caution or avoid Lactobacillus gasseri and other probiotics. Individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, organ transplant recipients, or people undergoing immunosuppressive therapy for cancer, may be at a slightly increased risk of infection. In rare cases, probiotics have been linked to blood infections in these vulnerable groups. There is also some concern that L. gasseri might cause infection in individuals with liver scarring (cirrhosis). Before starting any new supplement, including Lactobacillus gasseri, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to ensure it is appropriate for individual health needs.