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Lactobacillus Reuteri 1E1

Also known as: Lactobacillus reuteri, L. reuteri, Limosilactobacillus reuteri 1E1, Limosilactobacillus reuteri

Overview

Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly Lactobacillus reuteri) is a gram-positive, rod-shaped probiotic bacterium naturally found in the human and animal gastrointestinal tract. It is widely recognized for its role in promoting gut health, particularly in the prevention and treatment of diarrhea. Key characteristics include the production of antimicrobial substances like reuterin, modulation of immune responses, and effective colonization of the gut mucosa. While the specific strain 1E1 has limited dedicated research, the species as a whole, especially strain DSM 17938, has been extensively studied in numerous randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, demonstrating moderate to high research maturity and good evidence quality for its efficacy in diarrhea-related outcomes, particularly in children. It is available as a dietary supplement in various forms.

Benefits

Limosilactobacillus reuteri primarily offers significant benefits in reducing the duration and frequency of acute diarrhea, especially in children. Meta-analyses show a 13-39% reduction in diarrhea episodes by day 1 to day 4 of treatment compared to placebo, with risk ratios ranging from 0.87 to 0.61. It also improves secondary diarrhea-related parameters such as severity scores, days of watery stools, and hospitalization duration. Beyond diarrhea, L. reuteri exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokines like TNF and matrix metalloproteinases, as observed in periodontal disease contexts. Animal studies suggest protective effects against gastrointestinal pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium, E. coli, and Cryptosporidium parvum, supporting its role in pathogen resistance. Children with acute diarrhea are the primary beneficiaries, with effects becoming stable and significant after approximately four days of treatment. The evidence for these benefits is supported by multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses, indicating moderate to high quality research.

How it works

Limosilactobacillus reuteri exerts its beneficial effects through several mechanisms. A key action is the production of reuterin, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial compound effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, which helps inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens. It also modulates immune responses by suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF, in activated immune cells. Furthermore, L. reuteri enhances gut barrier function, contributing to the integrity of the intestinal lining, and competes with pathogens for adhesion sites on the gut mucosa, thereby preventing their colonization. The probiotic primarily works through colonization of the gut rather than systemic absorption, with its bioavailability depending on the viability of the strain and the delivery method.

Side effects

Limosilactobacillus reuteri is generally considered safe for consumption, with a long history of use in both infants and adults. Adverse effects are rare and typically mild, primarily involving transient gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. No significant drug interactions have been reported in healthy populations, and there are no known contraindications for its use under normal circumstances. However, individuals who are immunocompromised should exercise caution and consult a healthcare provider before use due to a theoretical, albeit rare, risk of infection. Despite this theoretical risk, major adverse events have not been reported in clinical trials involving L. reuteri. Overall, its safety profile is favorable, making it a well-tolerated supplement for most individuals.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for Limosilactobacillus reuteri typically ranges from 10^8 to 10^10 colony-forming units (CFU) per day. For the treatment of acute diarrhea, a minimum effective dose appears to be around 10^8 CFU daily. The optimal dosage can vary depending on the specific strain and formulation, with strain DSM 17938 being the most extensively studied and having established dosing guidelines. L. reuteri is generally administered daily during acute diarrhea episodes, with beneficial effects typically observed within four days of consistent supplementation. It is available in various formulations, including capsules, powders, and liquids. The efficacy of the supplement is also dependent on the viability of the probiotic bacteria, which can be affected by storage conditions and delivery methods. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds beyond the general recommended ranges, as it is considered very safe.

FAQs

Is Limosilactobacillus reuteri 1E1 effective for diarrhea?

Evidence supports the efficacy of L. reuteri strains (especially DSM 17938) in reducing diarrhea duration and severity. While specific data on the 1E1 strain is limited, it is expected to have similar benefits due to shared species characteristics.

Is Limosilactobacillus reuteri safe for children?

Yes, multiple randomized controlled trials have confirmed the safety and beneficial effects of L. reuteri in pediatric populations, particularly for acute diarrhea.

How quickly does Limosilactobacillus reuteri work?

Benefits, particularly for diarrhea, typically begin to appear within 3-4 days of consistent daily supplementation.

Can Limosilactobacillus reuteri replace antibiotics?

No, L. reuteri is an adjunct or preventive measure for gut health and diarrhea. It is not a substitute for antibiotic therapy in cases of bacterial infections requiring medical intervention.

Research Sources

https://www.springermedizin.de/a-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis-the-therapeutic-and-preven/25324294 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on L. reuteri DSM 17938 in children with diarrhea. It found a significant reduction in diarrhea episodes by day 1 (RR=0.87) and day 2 (RR=0.61), with stable effects after 4 days, supporting its efficacy. The study highlighted some heterogeneity in outcomes but confirmed the probiotic's benefits.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6893691/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis, utilizing RevMan software, confirmed the beneficial effects of L. reuteri DSM 17938 on acute diarrhea. It reported statistically significant pooled risk ratios and mean differences favoring treatment over placebo, with the quality of included studies assessed as moderate to high, featuring appropriate controls and blinding.
https://www.biolifesas.org/EN/PDF/10.23812/21-2SUPP1-7 – This source discusses the production of reuterin by L. reuteri, highlighting its antimicrobial properties against various pathogens. It also touches upon the immune-modulating effects, specifically the suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF in LPS-activated monocytes, providing mechanistic insights into the probiotic's actions.
https://academic.oup.com/jbmr/article/40/1/100/7901044 – This study, likely an animal model research, demonstrated the protective effects of L. reuteri against gastrointestinal pathogens such as Salmonella and E. coli. It showed a reduction in morbidity and mortality, providing mechanistic plausibility for the observed human benefits of L. reuteri in combating infections.