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Lactobacillus lactis

Also known as: Lactobacillus lactis, Probiotics, Lactococcus lactis

Overview

*Lactococcus lactis* is a bacterium often associated with dairy fermentation rather than being a primary probiotic species like *Lactobacillus acidophilus* or *Lactobacillus rhamnosus*. Probiotics, in general, are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. They are found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. While *Lactococcus lactis* itself isn't typically highlighted as a probiotic, related *Lactobacillus* species are commonly used for their potential benefits in gastrointestinal health, immune system support, and metabolic health. Effective probiotics must be viable, non-pathogenic, and capable of surviving the digestive process. Research in the probiotic field is extensive, though specific effects vary significantly by strain, emphasizing the importance of strain-specific research.

Benefits

While there is no specific evidence for *Lactococcus lactis* as a probiotic, other *Lactobacillus* species have demonstrated benefits in reducing cholesterol levels and improving glycemic control, particularly in overweight or obese adults. These effects are typically modest but clinically significant for metabolic parameters. Some probiotics may also alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. Benefits often require consistent supplementation over several weeks to manifest. It's important to note that the efficacy of probiotics is highly strain-dependent, and not all *Lactobacillus* species will produce the same effects.

How it works

Probiotics primarily interact with the gut microbiome, influencing both the immune response and various metabolic pathways. They can modulate cytokine production and improve gut barrier function. While probiotics are not absorbed systemically in the traditional sense, they exert their effects locally within the gastrointestinal tract. This interaction with the gut microbiome can have systemic effects, influencing overall health and well-being. The exact mechanisms can vary depending on the specific strain of probiotic and the individual's gut environment.

Side effects

Probiotics are generally considered safe for most populations. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are not consistently reported. Rare but serious adverse effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, can include infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Caution is advised when using probiotics with immunosuppressive drugs due to potential interactions. Probiotics are contraindicated in individuals with severe immunodeficiency or critical illness. Limited data necessitates caution in pregnant women and neonates.

Dosage

For general probiotic use (not specifically *Lactococcus lactis*), a minimum effective dose is typically ≥1 × 10^9 CFU per day. Optimal dosage ranges from 1 × 10^9 to 1 × 10^10 CFU per day. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined, but higher doses are generally well-tolerated. Consistent daily dosing is recommended for best results. Probiotics are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and fermented foods. Since probiotics act locally in the gut, absorption factors are not applicable. No specific cofactors are known to be required for probiotic activity.

FAQs

How should probiotics be stored to maintain viability?

Probiotics should be stored according to the manufacturer's instructions, typically in a cool, dry place, and sometimes refrigerated, to ensure the live microorganisms remain viable.

Are probiotics safe for everyone?

Probiotics are generally safe, but individuals who are immunocompromised should consult a healthcare provider before use due to a slightly increased risk of infection.

When is the best time to take probiotics?

Probiotics are often recommended to be taken consistently with food or as directed by a healthcare provider to enhance their survival through the digestive system.

How long does it take to see the benefits of probiotics?

The benefits of probiotics may take several weeks of consistent use to manifest, as the gut microbiome gradually adjusts to the introduced microorganisms.

Are all probiotics the same?

No, not all probiotics are created equal. Strain-specific effects are important, meaning different strains of probiotics can have different effects on the body.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/gastroenterology/articles/10.3389/fgstr.2022.983075/full – This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis that examines the effects of *Lactobacillus* supplementation on metabolic health in overweight or obese adults. The review included 598 participants and found significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol with *Lactobacillus* supplementation over a 12-week period, highlighting the potential metabolic benefits of specific *Lactobacillus* strains.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35820261/ – This meta-analysis investigates the efficacy of probiotics in alleviating gastrointestinal discomfort in 598 adults. The findings suggest that *Bifidobacterium lactis* CNCM I-2494 can lead to modest improvements in gastrointestinal discomfort, providing evidence for the use of specific probiotic strains in managing digestive symptoms.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28286561/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis emphasizes the importance of strain-specific effects in probiotic research. The study highlights that different *Lactobacillus* species exhibit varying degrees of benefits, underscoring the need for targeted research to identify the most effective strains for specific health outcomes.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2018.00124/full – This research explores the strain-specific probiotic efficacy, emphasizing that not all probiotics are created equal. It highlights the importance of understanding the unique properties of different strains to maximize their potential health benefits, advocating for more targeted and strain-specific research in the field of probiotics.
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/1151505 – This article discusses the general use of probiotics and their potential health benefits. It provides an overview of the current research landscape, emphasizing the importance of strain-specific effects and the need for further investigation to fully understand the role of probiotics in human health.