Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is a specific probiotic bacteria strain that has undergone extensive scientific investigation. It is recognized for its potential to support human health, primarily within the digestive system. The “DSM 17938” designation ensures the reliability and reproducibility of its observed health benefits.
Understanding Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938
The designation “DSM 17938” identifies a unique and well-characterized strain of Lactobacillus reuteri, which has been reclassified as Limosilactobacillus reuteri Protectis® as of April 2020. This strain originated from Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730. The DSM 17938 strain was developed by removing specific antibiotic resistance genes from the parent strain, making it a safer option for human consumption.
As a probiotic, L. reuteri DSM 17938 is a living microorganism that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provides a health benefit to the host. Its specific strain identity is important because probiotic effects are often strain-specific, meaning benefits observed with one strain may not apply to others, even within the same species. This particular strain is capable of surviving passage through the human gastrointestinal tract.
Diverse Health Benefits
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 offers a range of researched health benefits, particularly concerning gut health. It has been shown to assist in managing constipation, including cases related to methane-dominant small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). For infants, this probiotic has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating infantile colic, leading to a reduction in crying time.
The strain also plays a role in addressing diarrhea, shortening the duration of acute infectious diarrhea in both children and adults. It can provide protection against gut infections by enhancing gut microbiome resilience and strengthening gut immunity. Furthermore, L. reuteri DSM 17938 may help reduce gut pain and inflammation associated with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and functional abdominal discomfort. Beyond digestive health, emerging research suggests its involvement in immune system modulation and its potential influence on neurodevelopmental disorders, although these areas require further study.
How It Works
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 exerts its beneficial effects through several interconnected mechanisms. It interacts with the gut microbiota by producing antimicrobial compounds, such as reuterin and lactic acid, which help balance bacterial populations by inhibiting harmful pathogens and supporting beneficial microbes. This also contributes to maintaining a healthy intestinal barrier function.
The probiotic influences gut motility, which can reduce constipation and relieve functional abdominal pain. It produces gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter known for promoting relaxation. This interacts with the gut-brain axis, potentially influencing mood and stress responses. The strain adheres to the intestinal epithelium and aggregates mucus, creating a defensive barrier that hinders the attachment of pathogens and supports the host’s immune response.
Evidence and Safety
Extensive scientific validation supports the efficacy and safety of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. Over 250 clinical studies involving approximately 22,000 individuals have documented its effects, providing robust evidence for its various applications in both children and adults.
The strain generally exhibits a favorable safety profile and is well-tolerated by most individuals, including infants and adults. Adverse events are minimal, with no significant side effects reported even at high doses in some studies. While rare instances of probiotic-related infections have been noted in severely immunocompromised patients, L. reuteri DSM 17938 itself has not been directly linked to serious human diseases.