Lactobacillus Plantarum Lp01
Also known as: Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus plantarum Lp01, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum
Overview
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, formerly known as Lactobacillus plantarum, is a gram-positive, facultative heterofermentative lactic acid bacterium commonly found in the human gastrointestinal tract and fermented foods. It is widely utilized as a probiotic supplement due to its potential health benefits. The specific strain Lp01 is one of many strains studied for its probiotic effects. Its primary applications include the modulation of immune function, improvement of metabolic parameters, and support of gut health. Research on L. plantarum is extensive, with numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses available, though strain-specific effects, such as those for Lp01, require careful consideration. The evidence quality for its immune and metabolic effects is moderate to high, but can vary by specific indication and strain. It is generally considered safe for healthy adults.
Benefits
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum offers several evidence-based benefits. It significantly contributes to immune modulation, as shown by a meta-analysis of 18 RCTs, which reported its ability to regulate cytokines, reducing pro-inflammatory markers (IL-4, TNF-α, IFN-γ) and increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10, indicating enhanced host immunity. Systematic reviews also suggest that Lactobacillus strains, including L. plantarum, can improve lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of nine RCTs indicated that L. plantarum supplementation led to significant reductions in body weight and BMI in healthy adults, with additional benefits on abdominal fat and inflammatory markers like IL-6 and hs-CRP; using multiple strains enhanced these effects. Healthy adults with overweight or metabolic risk factors appear to benefit most. Benefits are typically observed over weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Lactiplantibacillus plantarum primarily exerts its effects through the modulation of the gut microbiota and the immune system. It influences cytokine production, helping to balance pro- and anti-inflammatory responses within the body. This probiotic interacts directly with intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells, promoting the release of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-10, while suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IFN-γ. Additionally, it may improve lipid metabolism through its bile salt hydrolase activity and by favorably altering the composition of the gut microbiota. As a live bacterium, its mechanism of action relies on its ability to colonize and transiently persist within the gastrointestinal tract.
Side effects
Overall, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum is considered safe for healthy adults, with no serious adverse events reported in clinical trials. Common side effects are rare and, if they occur, are typically mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been documented in high-quality studies. However, caution is advised for immunocompromised patients due to a theoretical, albeit rare, risk of infection. It is important to note that while generally safe, individual responses can vary, and any persistent or severe symptoms should prompt consultation with a healthcare professional. There are no known interactions with common medications or supplements that would pose a significant risk.
Dosage
Effective doses of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum in clinical trials typically range from 1 billion to 10 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per day. This dosage is often administered in capsule form or incorporated into fermented foods. The optimal dosing can depend on the specific strain and the intended health indication; for instance, multi-strain formulations may enhance efficacy for weight management. The duration of supplementation in studies commonly ranges from 4 weeks to 12 weeks or longer to achieve sustained effects. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses exceeding 10 billion CFU/day have generally not demonstrated additional benefits in most trials. The viability of the probiotic and its delivery matrix are crucial factors influencing its absorption and ability to colonize the gut.
FAQs
Is Lp01 strain-specific data available?
While many studies evaluate L. plantarum broadly, specific data on the Lp01 strain are limited; however, general L. plantarum findings likely apply to Lp01's benefits.
Is it safe to use daily?
Yes, daily use of L. plantarum is considered safe for healthy adults, with minimal side effects reported in clinical studies.
How soon do benefits appear?
Immune and metabolic benefits from L. plantarum supplementation typically manifest after several weeks of consistent daily use.
Can it replace medications?
No, L. plantarum is an adjunctive supplement and should not be used as a replacement for prescribed medications or medical treatments.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8019694/ – This meta-analysis of 18 RCTs involving 677 participants found that L. plantarum significantly modulated cytokines, reducing pro-inflammatory markers and increasing anti-inflammatory IL-10, indicating enhanced host immunity. Despite some heterogeneity in strains and populations, the study provides high-quality evidence for immune regulation.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0178868 – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs demonstrated that Lactobacillus strains, including L. plantarum, improved lipid profiles by reducing total cholesterol and LDL-C. The study employed robust statistical methods, indicating moderate to high quality evidence, though acknowledging some heterogeneity in strain-specific effects.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39062848/ – This meta-analysis of nine RCTs in healthy adults showed that L. plantarum supplementation led to significant reductions in body weight, BMI, abdominal fat, and inflammatory markers. While acknowledging variability in strains and intervention durations, the study provides moderate quality evidence for its role in weight management.
Recommended Articles
Top Ingredients for Optimal Gut Health
Fiber, probiotics, prebiotics, hydration, and fermented foods are crucial for maintaining healthy digestion and gut function.
Best Probiotic Strains & CFU for Health
Certain probiotic strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, with CFU counts ranging from 1 billion for general wellness to 100 billion for conditions like IBS, are most beneficial.
Best Probiotic Strains for Your Health Goals
Certain probiotic strains offer targeted benefits for digestive health, immune support, weight management, and mental health.
Top Digestive Health Ingredients
Dietary fiber, probiotics, and natural ingredients like ginger and peppermint oil are essential for improving digestive health.