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Howaru Lactobacillus Acidophilus Ncfm

Also known as: Lactobacillus acidophilus, NCFM, LA-5, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM

Overview

Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM is a specific probiotic strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus, widely recognized in fermented products like yogurt and available as a dietary supplement. This strain is particularly characterized by its robust health benefits, especially concerning gastrointestinal health, insulin sensitivity, and the management of conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and acute gastroenteritis. It exhibits resilience, enabling it to survive the harsh gastrointestinal environment while effectively adhering to intestinal epithelial cells. Extensive meta-analyses and randomized controlled trials have validated its safety and efficacy across diverse populations, making it a reliable choice for probiotic supplementation. It is available in multiple forms, including capsules, powders, and fermented foods.

Benefits

Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM has several noteworthy evidence-backed benefits. It supports insulin sensitivity particularly in healthy individuals and type 2 diabetes patients after a short-term supplementation (4 weeks). In children suffering from acute gastroenteritis, high doses of this strain (≥10^9 CFU/day) significantly decrease both the duration and frequency of diarrhea. For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome, it offers symptomatic relief and is rated among the effective probiotics for this condition. Additionally, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM contributes to intestinal integrity and may lower colorectal cancer risk by inhibiting aberrant crypt formation. These benefits are supported by studies recognized for their rigorous methodology.

How it works

Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM improves gut health mainly through immunomodulation and the synthesis of antimicrobial substances. Its strong adhesion to intestinal epithelial cells bolsters the intestinal barrier, hindering pathogen colonization. The strain's ability to interact with immune system cells may enhance immune responses. The specific molecular mechanisms are still under investigation, yet its influence on the gut-brain axis and ability to endure gastrointestinal transit are pivotal to its role as an effective probiotic.

Side effects

Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM is generally regarded as safe, with minimal documented adverse effects from clinical trials. No significant common side effects (occurring in more than 5% of participants) have been reported, while uncommon side effects (1-5%) remain largely undocumented, and rare side effects (less than 1%) also have not been found. While no serious drug interactions are known, caution is advised for immunocompromised individuals due to a possible heightened risk of infections. The strain is considered safe for both adults and children, but additional research is needed for vulnerable groups like pregnant women. Regulatory authorities have assessed it as safe, evidenced by studies indicating no acute toxicity, even at high dosage levels.

Dosage

For effective gastrointestinal health support, the recommended minimum dosage of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM is 10^9 CFU/day. Elevated dosages (≥10^10 CFU/day) benefit children experiencing diarrhea. Clinical trials have successfully administered doses up to 1.2-2.8 × 10^12 CFU for a 70 kg individual without adverse impacts. Currently, an upper limit for safe dosing is undefined. For optimal results, continuous supplementation is advised, with flexibility in timing (any time of day) important to maintain effectiveness. Available forms include capsules, powders, and yogurt-like products, with observed enhanced absorption due to this strain’s resilience during gastrointestinal travel.