Good bacteria like Lactobacillus Reuteri help break down food items, take in nutrients, and fight bad bacteria that can cause illnesses. Lactobacillus Reuteri is often added to fermented foods such as yoghurt and can be present in probiotic supplements. You must differentiate Lactobacillus Reuteri from other probiotics or fermented foods like milk, yoghurt, or kefir. These are two different things. Also, note that Lactobacillus reuteri was previously classified within the Lactobacillus genus. However, Lactobacillus was divided into 25 distinct genera in April 2020.
What is Lactobacillus Reuteri?
Probiotics form a bigger picture regarding the body, bacteria, and microbiome. Imagine a microbiome as an array of diverse organisms similar to the forest that work to maintain your health. The microbiome is comprised of microbes. Millions of microbes within your body surround you. These microbes consist of:
- Bacteria
- Fungal (including yeasts)
- Viruses
- Protozoa
Each microbiome is distinct. No two individuals have the same microbial cells, and even twins differ. To be referred to as a probiotic, it should possess various qualities. These include being able to:
- To be isolated from the human
- Live inside your intestines after the ingestion (being consumed)
- Have been proven to be beneficial to you
- Consume food safely
The primary purpose of probiotics (also known as good bacteria) aims to ensure equilibrium in your body. Consider them as keeping the body neutral. If you’re sick, harmful bacteria enter the body and increase in size. The body is thrown off equilibrium. The good bacteria fight against bad bacteria and restore equilibrium inside your body, causing you to feel healthier.
Lactobacillus Reuteri is a lactic acid-producing bacterium found in many natural environments, including the digestive tract of several species of animals. It is not believed to be pathogenic but provides positive health effects. Being one of the members of the Lactobacillus family, it is a part of the same wide-ranging probiotic health benefits.
Lactobacillus Reuteri blocks the growth of harmful Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including protozoa, yeasts, and fungi. Researchers discovered that Lactobacillus reuteri produces enough reuterin to produce the desired antimicrobial effect. In addition, because 4-5% Reuterin is required for killing good gut bacteria, this will allow Lactobacillus Reuteri to get rid of intestinal invaders without harming other microbiota in the gut.
Benefits of Lactobacillus Reuteri
- The production of antimicrobial molecules – The Lactobacillus reuteri species is known for its production of carbon dioxide and ethanol Acetate, and lactic acid by glucose fermentation, thereby preventing it from growing harmful bacteria and fungi, protozoa and fungi in the host.
- Production of nutrients – This strain of bacteria is particularly adept in producing folate and vitamin B12.
- Reuterin production – Lactobacillus Reuteri is famously known for producing a chemical called Reuterin by glycerol fermentation. Reuterin is a powerful antimicrobial which affects both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Reuterin aids in the growth of Lactobacillus bacteria by preventing the presence of other species in their surroundings. It is believed to be effective as an antimicrobial because it has been proven to inhibit ribonucleotide reductase, an enzyme essential to DNA synthesis. This enzyme plays an important role in the multiplication and growth of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell types and viruses.
It is believed that the Lactobacillus Reuteri strain is a potential treatment in helping to treat or prevent certain diseases related to urogenital, gastrointestinal and oral hygiene. Lactobacillus Reuteri is the subject of numerous studies and clinical trials, specifically study on women’s vaginal health and supporting those suffering from bacterial Vaginosis (BV).
Side Effects of Lactobacillus Reuteri
A rise in the stomach’s gas levels or stomach bloating could be the cause. Suppose the effect worsens; contact your physician or pharmacist when you notice any changes.
Contact your doctor immediately if there are any severe side effects, such as indications of infection, such as a cough that won’t disappear, an excessive fever, or chills.
A severe allergy to the product can be very rare. But, seek medical attention immediately if you experience any indications of a serious allergic reaction, such as:
- Rash
- Itching
- Swelling, mainly of the tongue, face, or cheeks.
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
