Lactobacillus reuteri is a Gram-positive bacterium considered a probiotic for its benefits and properties in treating infant colic and enhancing defenses against microorganisms causing infections such as Candida, H. pylori, E. coli, and other pathogens (protozoa, yeasts, and fungi) that frequently affect humans.
It is part of the family of live lactobacilli. It was discovered in the early 20th century but reclassified in 1980 by microbiologist Gerhard Reuter, from whom its name is derived.
L. reuteri constitutes a significant percentage of the intestinal flora and the entire human microbiota, serving as an extra aid to reinforce the bacterial colonies that develop naturally in the intestine and mucous membranes.
Content
The Different Types of Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14 and rhamnosus GR-1
There is a version of probiotics that includes two very important strains. The first is L. reuteri RC-14, and the second is L. rhamnosus GR-1.
For reuteri, the strain included is ATCC 55845, and for rhamnosus, it is ATCC 55826, that is, reuteri RC14 and rhamnosus GR1, respectively.
The benefits of both, when taken together or used as probiotic ovules, are:
- Reduction of urinary tract infections.
- Less discomfort from Candida.
- Restoration of vaginal flora.
It should be noted that effects may vary between individuals, depending on their existing microbiota and the extent of the candidiasis. We recommend checking the section on the benefits of Lactobacillus rhamnosus to delve into all its medicinal and therapeutic properties.
In any case, it is estimated that combining L. rhamnosus and L. reuteri in most cases improves symptoms, reduces the number of Candida albicans microbes, and decreases the duration of vaginal infection.
DSM 17938
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is a strain of L. reuteri developed by laboratories to act as a treatment for infant colic, widely used in babies with gastrointestinal problems.
It reduces crying and discomfort in babies, newborns, and other children with frequent colic by improving the development of the intestinal flora at the expense of Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria.
Its benefits in babies are:
- Elimination of stomach pain.
- Reduction of intestinal gas formation.
- Less growth of pathogenic microorganisms such as Clostridium difficile, Escherichia spp, Klebsiella spp, etc.
Unfortunately, for treating colic in babies with probiotics, there are no established official criteria to allow for an adequate and risk-free dose, always having to be selected at the discretion of the pediatrician or neonatologist.
ATCC 6475
This is another strain of Lactobacillus reuteri, in this case with the commercial name ATCC 6475 Protectis. Lactobacillus reuteri 6475 is produced by BioGaia, Swedish biotechnology laboratories that have developed the patent.
Among the benefits provided by this type of lactobacillus are:
- Elimination of side effects caused by antibiotics.
- Strengthening of intestinal flora.
- Help against symptoms of occasional constipation.
- Reduction of gas formation in the intestine.
- Relief of discomfort caused by abdominal bloating.
In adults, Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis helps to strengthen intestinal flora, improving the digestive process and preparing the body to better combat the presence of pathogenic microorganisms such as E. coli and H. pylori. Often used in drops or oral tablets.
Pylopass
It is another commercial name of L. reuteri, developed by the pharmaceutical laboratories HC Clover PS (Aplicaps by Clover) and Lonza.
It is sold as a dietary supplement, presented in gelatin-coated capsules that dissolve after ingestion.
This strain contains the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri Pylopass, a variation of reuteri that is indicated to reduce stomach discomfort caused by H. pylori.
Prodentis
Focused on the treatment of periodontal diseases, Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis acts against periodontitis and infections that destroy the support tissue of the teeth.
The goal of this commercial probiotic is to reduce the bacterial load in the oral cavity, facilitating defense against germs.
The use of the probiotic L. reuteri Prodentis increases the effectiveness of mechanical treatment, which scrapes and cleans the tooth of pathogenic bacterial plaque (subgingival debridement), as well as the use of antibiotic and antiseptic drugs.
If you suffer from gingivitis, you should always consult the use of reuteri with your dentist.
NCIMB 30242
It works to increase circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D, which is used as a reference to measure the level of vitamin D in the body.
Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242, by increasing the amount of vitamin D available in the body, improves calcium and phosphate levels, which can be very interesting for controlling osteoporosis, reducing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and in some situations, decreasing the risk of cancer.
As with some recently developed types of probiotics, there is still a lack of data to empirically certify and demonstrate the efficacy of NCIMB 30242 for the cases we have indicated.
Now that we know all the characteristics of Lactobacillus reuteri, its medicinal properties and benefits, as well as the different types marketed and the foods in which it is found, let's address the most frequently asked questions.
Possible Benefits and Properties of Lactobacillus reuteri as a Probiotic
One of the characteristics of lactobacillus reuteri is that it produces an organic compound called Reuterin (3-hydroxypropionaldehyde) that inhibits the growth of viruses and some types of Gram-positive negative bacteria, as well as yeasts.
This compound generated by L. reuteri has broad-spectrum antibiotic properties and is formed from glycerol.
Recent studies show how the presence of the reuteri probiotic can secrete the necessary amount of reuterin to block the proliferation of microbes, meaning it has antimicrobial effects. Although these damage certain microorganisms, to harm the intestinal flora, it would need to be produced in much larger quantities, around 4 to 5 times what it usually generates, thus keeping the other species of live lactobacilli spp inhabiting the human intestines intact.
This property is very potent, making the benefits of Lactobacillus reuteri much greater than those of other bacteria considered probiotics. Some similar examples are the L. gasseri probiotic which also produces a toxin for other microorganisms and inhibits the growth of bacterial colonies that could harm humans.
L. plantarum is another clear example of what we describe. It works against Candida Albicans, E. Coli, and S. aureus by excreting a similar bacteriocin.
In other genera of microorganisms, we also find very similar cases, such as the characteristics of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, which also promotes the elimination of other yeasts causing most vaginal, oral, and intestinal infections.
Below, we indicate the benefits of Lactobacillus reuteri:
- Act against viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa.
- Increase intestinal flora.
- Reduce intestinal motility.
- May promote greater nutrient absorption.
Intestinal Flora
Lactobacillus reuteri intake is considered to have medicinal properties for humans, regardless of its source, meaning that consuming Lactobacillus reuteri from foods or as a dietary supplement based on probiotics has benefits.
While it is true that taking probiotic capsules or pills significantly increases the intestinal flora due to their high concentration of lactobacilli, it promotes the expansion and colonization of the intestines regardless of its origin, even months after stopping its intake.
Diarrhea
It is very common to use it to treat diarrhea in children, reducing symptoms and the duration of loose stools. L. reuteri is commonly administered as a treatment for rotavirus diarrhea, providing relief and shorter convalescence time in children. It also has prophylactic uses for diarrhea, resulting in fewer diarrheal episodes in children who take it regularly. It protects against diarrhea.
Lactobacillus reuteri is considered more effective for intestinal disorders than other probiotics. This is because it has effects in reducing gastrointestinal motility, meaning decreasing the movement of ingested food from the mouth to the anus. In many cases, this can be extraordinarily beneficial and, in other cases, an inconvenience, such as in situations of constipation.
For diarrhea caused by the protozoan Cryptosporidium parvum, it also has therapeutic properties, reducing the danger in HIV patients and immunocompromised individuals.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis and Intestinal Inflammation
In some people, it can have positive effects on controlling intestinal inflammation.
In children, the evolution of including L. reuteri as a treatment for necrotizing enterocolitis, a disease that causes inflammation and necrosis of the intestine, has been studied. There is data indicating that it can reduce the occurrence of this pathology, as well as sepsis, the release of substances in the blood as a response of the immune system.
Colic
The effects against infant colic and in adults have also been studied, showing that Lactobacillus reuteri is effective in shortening the duration of colic in children, preventing prolonged crying periods.
However, although studies have been developed, it is still in the testing phase as the data is inconclusive, although promising. It remains to be determined whether the medicinal properties relieve gastrointestinal discomfort or provide other yet undiscovered benefits.
Helicobacter pylori
In the fight against bacterial infections, Lactobacillus reuteri is proving to be a probiotic with a wide range of uses, working against Helicobacter pylori, a Gram-negative bacterium that causes peptic ulcers and is present in a large percentage of the world's population.
However, taking L. reuteri is not a treatment for H. pylori but acts as an aid (adjuvant) to relieve stomach discomfort, often taken with omeprazole to protect the irritation of the gastrointestinal mucosa. In this case, it has been found to be much more beneficial than taking the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri alone.
Cavities
In oral health, it plays an important role as Lactobacillus reuteri can reduce the formation of cavities in teeth.
Indeed, thanks to its properties to inhibit the growth and development of the pathogen Streptococcus mutans, there is less occurrence of cavities. S. mutans is a bacterium that damages dental enamel and corrodes tooth tissue.
Similarly to what happens in the gastrointestinal tract, the presence of L. reuteri in oral mucosa significantly reduces the presence of Streptococcus mutans, making it likely that fewer cavities will appear in the future.
Likewise, in cases where there is gum bleeding (gingivitis), it is detected less frequently.
There is a strain developed for this purpose that you can see in Lactobacillus reuteri Prodentis.
E. coli
It is thought that the benefits of L. reuteri for E. coli are related to the excretion of reuterin, the organic compound that functions as an antibiotic. In this way, although Escherichia coli is part of the intestinal flora, some subspecies of Escherichia can be controlled, preventing them from producing toxins that damage the lining of the small intestine.
Candida albicans
It has some therapeutic actions, but to treat candidiasis, it is better to use other types of probiotics such as L. acidophilus for candida and L. casei. Although benefits have been shown in people with Candida, the effects of Casei and Acidophilus are greater, which is why it is recommended to opt for capsules with these probiotics if diagnosed with candidiasis.
Ulcerative Colitis
There are many cases where, after applying a layer of lactobacillus reuteri to injured tissues, the symptoms subside almost immediately. For ulcerative colitis, L. reuteri is being investigated, with the belief that in the near future it can be marketed to aid the recovery of these patients.
Autism
Studies indicate that an imbalance in the human microbiota is related to people with behavioral disorders. Lactobacillus reuteri for autism could complement the development of beneficial bacterial colonies for humans, thereby decreasing the cases detected with this problem associated with the lack of a healthy and robust beneficial bacterial flora.
It prevents harmful bacteria from proliferating and contaminating the mucous membranes and tissues vital to human and vertebrate life. It prevents certain bacteria from reaching the bloodstream (bacterial translocation) and thus causing sepsis.
Gas in Babies and Adults
Many probiotics help eliminate intestinal gas, and in this case, reuteri for gas in babies is extremely beneficial.
This property of L. reuteri is closely related to the benefits for infant colic that we have explained.
Another probiotic that works against gas is Bifidobacterium infantis, as well as Lactobacillus salivarius and L. gasseri.
You can see how probiotics work for gas and other stomach functions. Sometimes, flatulence in adults is caused by prolonged fermentation of food in the intestines, poor digestion of lactose, in which case lactic bacteria have benefits as they degrade it, as well as in cases where gas is produced by the presence of fructose.
Another important element for reducing abdominal bloating due to CO2 is including natural symbiotics, which are foods with probiotics and prebiotics.
When Does L. reuteri Take Effect When Used as a Probiotic?
When taking probiotics, it is usually advisable to wait a few days to form an opinion and see if they are really having the desired effects. In this case, L. reuteri takes effect from the 1st week, meaning that to fully benefit, you should start using it and wait 7 days.
Some people may notice relief 1 or 2 days after starting supplementation if taking pills or after starting to use ovules. However, some of us may have greater resistance to pathogens, which is why it is necessary to continue taking it without getting discouraged.
Whenever reuteri is used when indicated, we must be patient. The restoration cycle of the intestinal, vaginal, and even oral flora needs a few days.
Possible Side Effects and Contraindications
Side Effects
There are no side effects of Lactobacillus reuteri, although some people with weakened immune systems may notice certain disorders.
The most likely are:
- Stomach discomfort.
- Abdominal bloating.
- Rash.
- Redness.
- Fever.
Reuteri and its side effects or adverse reactions are usually related to an allergy to one of the excipients that the dietary supplement may contain. This is why it is always recommended to read the composition to avoid possible food allergies.
In cases of having low defenses, it could prolifically colonize the body, causing certain stomach disorders and discomfort. In these cases, taking it should always be recommended by a specialist.
Contraindications
- Short bowel syndrome.
- Heart valve disease.
- Newborns.
- Premature babies.
- Human immunodeficiency virus.
- Central venous catheters.
- Weak immune system.
Although many of the properties and benefits of L. reuteri serve to boost immunity, the human and other animals' immune system, when weak, increases the likelihood of side effects, which is why it is recommended to take it from capsules with caution. While in most cases it does not produce an adverse reaction, having low body defenses is considered one of the contraindications of Lactobacillus reuteri.
Foods Containing Lactobacillus reuteri
Yogurt
Initially, yogurt does not contain Lactobacillus reuteri, but lactic fermentation can be prepared to include different species of lactobacilli.
Yogurt with L. reuteri can be made to contain ATCC 6475 and DSM 17938. To do this, follow these steps:
- A quarter of whole milk.
- Heat the milk to 82°C.
- Add 2 tablespoons of inulin or potato starch as food for the various types of reuteri. If these are not available, use another crushed prebiotic.
- Blend for approximately 40 seconds until the mixture is homogeneous. To avoid lumps, it is advisable to add the inulin or the chosen prebiotic gradually.
- Maintain a constant temperature of 37°C. For this part of the homemade yogurt with Lactobacillus reuteri, it is recommended to use a yogurt maker as it will be much easier to maintain the temperature without sudden changes.
During fermentation, the sugar in the added prebiotics will be eliminated through the lactic fermentation process. The longer it is left to rest, the lower the carbohydrate content.
It is important to note that L. reuteri is much more sensitive to high temperatures than other probiotics. If in doubt, you can follow the guide for making homemade yogurt, but instead include crushed reuteri tablets and the prebiotic that will support bacterial growth, which will provide the yogurt's benefits and properties.
One cup can be consumed daily, garnished with blueberries, strawberries, and natural sweetener.
Kefir
Like yogurt, kefir does not naturally contain Lactobacillus reuteri. It can be added as an extra element when making it, following the same method indicated, including a base of purchased probiotics in its preparation.
The drawback of homemade recipes and preparations is that they are very difficult to control, potentially resulting in fermentation lacking lactobacilli or, if present, very few, and possibly ending the kefir production process with probiotic strains that are less desirable. This is without mentioning other potential contamination routes that could lead to the growth of harmful bacteria.
Breast Milk
Breastfeeding a baby is one of the first methods to ensure that the newborn begins to form their intestinal flora. It should be remembered that, at birth, all humans lack it, and its acquisition is part of the baby's development and subsequent stages of childhood. This provides a defense mechanism against harmful infections.
Other Related Lactobacilli
References
- «Biotherapeutic effects of probiotic bacteria on candidiasis in immunodeficient mice». Immun. 65. October 1997.
- Orla-Jensen, S. 1919. The lactic acid Bacteria. Det Kongelige Danske Videnskasbernes Selskab. Naturvidenskabelige mathematiske Afdeling, NS 8.5.2
- «Classification of citratefermenting lactobacilli isolated from lamb stomach, sheep milk, and pecorino romano cheese». Bakt. Hyg. Abt. 1981.
- Mitsuoka T (1992). «The human gastrointestinal tract». En Wood BJB. The lactic acid bacteria in health and disease.
- «Glycerol induces reuterin production and decreases Escherichia coli population in an in vitro model of colonic fermentation with immobilized human feces». FEMS Microbiol. Ecol. 2008.
- «Effect of Lactobacillus reuteri on intestinal resistance to Cryptosporidium parvum infection in a murine model of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome». Infect. Dis. 175. 1997.
- «Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in Infantile Colic: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial». Pediatrics 2010.
- Schreck, Bird A; Gregory, PJ; Jalloh, MA; Risoldi Cochrane, Z; Hein, DN; 2016. «Probiotics for the Treatment of Infantile Colic: A Systematic Review.». J Pharm Pract
- Wang, B., Mao, YK., Diorio, C., Pasyk, M.; Wu, RY., Bienenstock, J., Kunze, WA. (2010). «Luminal administration ex vivo of a live Lactobacillus species moderates mouse jejunal motility within minutes».
- «Production, purification and characterization of reutericin 6, a bacteriocin with lytic activity produced by Lactobacillus reuteri LA6». International Journal of Food Microbiology 34. 2015.