Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is a strain of probiotic that has become a focus of interest due to its versatile role in human health. Your body is home to a variety of bacteria, and L. reuteri DSM 17938 is known for its ability to colonize various parts, including the gastrointestinal tract. It joins the ranks of the microorganisms that make up your gut flora, contributing to a complex ecosystem that has a substantial impact on your overall well-being. The strain is unique, derived from its parent strain L. reuteri ATCC 55730, and has been utilized in various dietary supplements and functional foods aimed at improving health.
Research has connected the consumption of L. reuteri DSM 17938 with several health benefits that you might find significant. It has been studied for its potential in managing gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and constipation, suggesting that it can play a part in maintaining digestive balance. Furthermore, it’s also being looked at in the context of acute gastroenteritis in children, an area where effective probiotic interventions can be of great help. The ability of this bacterium to inhabit different sites in your body is indicative of its adaptability and the supportive role it can play in enhancing your body’s defense mechanisms.
As you delve into the world of probiotics and consider L. reuteri DSM 17938, understand that it exemplifies how certain microorganisms can be beneficial. Whether it’s influencing the immune system, aiding digestion, or potentially assisting in combating inflammation, the importance of L. reuteri DSM 17938 in dietary management and therapeutic applications continues to be substantiated by ongoing scientific research. Your health could benefit from its inclusion in your diet as it may be a natural way to promote a healthy balance within your body’s microbial community.
Taxonomy and Strain Characteristics
You will find that Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is a probiotic bacterium with distinctive features and a well-documented taxonomy.
Identification and Classification
Limosilactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, commonly known as Lactobacillus reuteri, falls under the order Lactobacillales, family Lactobacillaceae. The initials ‘DSM’ denote its registration with the Deutsche Sammlung von Mikroorganismen culture collection, indicating a standardized strain. This particular strain of L. reuteri was initially isolated from human breast milk and has been used extensively in a variety of health-related research.
Genetic Properties
The genome of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 contains crucial genes that contribute to its probiotic effects. It harbors unique genetic properties that enable it to colonize various niches within the human body. Your understanding of this strain improves by noting its capacity for biofilm formation and the production of bacteriocins, which are important for its competitive advantage in the microbiome and its interactions with the host.
Health Benefits
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 offers multiple health advantages, particularly in supporting gastrointestinal health, modulating the immune system, and exerting antimicrobial activities.
Gastrointestinal Support
Your digestive health can benefit significantly from Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. It helps reduce the duration of acute infectious diarrhea and can improve symptoms in individuals with colitis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Additionally, this probiotic is known to alleviate abdominal pain and enhance gut motility, which may help with chronic constipation.
Immune System Modulation
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 plays a role in immune system support by interacting with your body’s natural defenses. It has been observed to influence immune responses, which could potentially contribute to the prevention of certain immune-mediated diseases. This interaction helps establish a balanced immune environment in your gut.
Antimicrobial Functions
The antimicrobial properties of L. reuteri DSM 17938 are notable for their role in maintaining your gut health. It inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria, providing a protective effect against gastrointestinal infections. This action is crucial in preserving a healthy balance of microbes in your digestive system.
Safety Profile
When considering Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, you should know that its safety has been evaluated through clinical trials with findings indicative of a favorable safety profile. This section aims to provide you with targeted information on its safety through documented human trials and potential side effects based on these clinical evaluations.
Human Trials
Clinical trials serve as the backbone for assessing the safety of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. In a Phase I double-blinded randomized controlled trial, the strain was administered daily for five days to children aged 2 to 5, revealing no significant safety concerns. Participants: In this study, 60 participants were enrolled and randomly assigned in a 2:1 ratio concerning the placebo group to ensure adequate evaluation of the intervention’s safety.
Side Effects
The reported side effects associated with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 are typically mild and transient. Common side effects may include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Bloating
Nevertheless, these effects are generally well-tolerated and do not detract from the overall safety profile. It is also worth noting that no safety concerns have been raised for usage in nonimmunocompromised subjects and that research supports the safe use of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in preterm infants.
Commercial Availability
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is readily available on the market in various forms tailored to your needs. Regulatory authorities have evaluated its safety for consumer use.
Supplementation Forms
- Chewables: Ideal for those preferring an easy-to-consume option.
- Capsules: Suitable if you are looking for a traditional pill form.
- Lozenges: A convenient choice that can be taken without water.
These supplements can be found under different brand names, offering a range of probiotic products that include Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938.
Regulatory Status
The probiotic has passed safety assessments for dietary use:
- In the USA: It’s recognized as safe for consumption by the FDA.
- Globally: Regulatory bodies have permitted its use in various countries with respective guidelines.
Before adding any new supplement to your regimen, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure its compatibility with your health profile.
Research and Development
Throughout the exploration of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, your focus on the latest scientific research and potential health applications is crucial. It ensures you stay informed about developments that may impact health interventions.
Current Studies
Acute Gastroenteritis in Children: Recent systematic reviews scrutinize the role of L. reuteri DSM 17938 in treating acute gastroenteritis (AGE) in children. Despite previous endorsements, its effectiveness is being re-evaluated.
Infants and Children Health: Ongoing research investigates the efficacy of L. reuteri DSM 17938 across various conditions in infants and children, utilizing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to provide evidence-based conclusions.
Potential Applications
Holistic Colonization: L. reuteri DSM 17938 demonstrates an ability to colonize multiple human body sites. These include the gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, skin, and even breast milk, hinting at a diverse set of potential health benefits.
Daily Health Administration: Studies assess the safety and impact of daily administration of L. reuteri DSM 17938 to infants experiencing colic, tracking its effect on various health indicators such as crying patterns, inflammatory responses, and immune system markers.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this section, you’ll find answers to common questions about the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, its health benefits, uses, and scientific insights regarding its effects on various gastrointestinal issues.
What are the health benefits associated with Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938?
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is recognized for its role in improving gut health and boosting the immune system. Research suggests it can be beneficial for certain gastrointestinal diseases.
Can Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 be used for infant colic and digestion issues?
Yes, it has been found to be safe for newborns and can help reduce symptoms of colic and certain digestion issues in infants, providing relief from excessive crying and discomfort.
Are there known side effects of taking Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938?
Generally, Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is considered safe with minimal side effects reported. However, as with any supplement, individual reactions can vary.
What specific conditions or symptoms is Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 commonly used to treat?
It is commonly used to manage and treat symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, primarily in children, and is also investigated for its effects on constipation and other functional gastrointestinal disorders.
How does Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 help with constipation?
By balancing the gut microbiota, Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 has been shown to improve bowel movements and overall digestive health, helping to alleviate constipation.
Can Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 be used as part of a treatment plan for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)?
Though more research is needed, there is some evidence that it can be included in a treatment regimen for SIBO, as it may help in restoring a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Johan Theorin is an author, editor, and competitive cyclist. He is the author of most of the content on this website, and he is the site editor. Johan has spent years researching joint health, sports performance and recovery. He is a leading biohacking expert and an experienced physiotherapist.
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