Lactobacillus Rhamnosus L08r
Also known as: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, LGG
Overview
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a well-researched probiotic strain of lactic acid bacteria, primarily utilized in supplements and fermented foods. It is not typically found naturally but is cultivated for its beneficial effects on gut health. LGG is widely recognized for its ability to colonize the gastrointestinal tract, produce antimicrobial substances, and promote the protection and healing of the GI barrier. Its primary applications include preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), reducing the duration of acute gastroenteritis, and managing symptoms of cow's milk allergy (CMA). The effectiveness of LGG is supported by extensive clinical research, including numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses, providing moderate to high-quality evidence for its benefits. LGG is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and as an ingredient in certain fermented foods.
Benefits
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly for gastrointestinal health. It significantly reduces the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in children (RR: 0.48, 95% CI: 0.26-0.89) and adults, especially those receiving antibiotics for *Helicobacter pylori* eradication (RR: 0.26, 95% CI: 0.11-0.59). LGG also reduces the duration of diarrhea in children with acute gastroenteritis by approximately 0.85 days (95% CI: -1.15 to -0.56). Furthermore, LGG may enhance the acquisition of tolerance in children with cow's milk allergy (CMA), with a relative risk of 2.22 (95% CI: 1.86-2.66) for achieving tolerance. It can also reduce intestinal symptoms in children with CMA, such as decreasing the concentration of TNF-α in fecal samples. These benefits are supported by moderate to high-quality research, making LGG a valuable probiotic for specific gastrointestinal conditions.
How it works
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) exerts its beneficial effects through several mechanisms. It colonizes the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, producing antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. LGG also promotes GI barrier protection and healing, enhancing the integrity of the intestinal lining. Additionally, it acts as an immune effector, both locally and systemically, by regulating inflammatory pathways such as the TLR4/MyD88/NFκB pathway. Proteins produced by LGG, like Msp1 and Msp2, regulate cell homeostasis through the Akt signaling pathway and inhibit MAP kinases. Effective colonization and activity are observed when LGG is administered at doses of ≥10^10 CFU, indicating good bioavailability and interaction with the body's systems.
Side effects
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is generally considered safe with minimal side effects. Common side effects are not consistently reported across studies, but some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas, though these are rare and typically transient. No significant rare side effects have been reported. There are no major drug interactions identified, but caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals due to a potential risk of bacteremia, although rare. As a precaution, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use, even though no adverse effects have been reported in these populations. LGG is generally contraindicated in severely immunocompromised individuals due to the elevated risk of bacteremia.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is ≥10^10 CFU per day, with optimal dosage ranges typically between 10^10 to 10^11 CFU per day. While no maximum safe dose has been definitively established, doses above 10^11 CFU are not commonly studied. LGG can be taken at any time, but it is often recommended to take it with meals to enhance colonization. It is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and fermented foods, with good bioavailability when administered in adequate doses. No specific cofactors are required for its effectiveness. Individuals should adhere to recommended dosages and consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.
FAQs
Is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG safe?
LGG is generally safe, but caution is advised for immunocompromised individuals due to a potential risk of bacteremia. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.
When should I take Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG?
LGG can be taken at any time, but it is often recommended to take it with meals to enhance colonization in the gastrointestinal tract.
What results can I expect from taking Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG?
Expected results include a reduction in the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, a shorter duration of diarrhea, and potential improvement in symptoms of cow's milk allergy.
Is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG a cure-all for gastrointestinal issues?
No, LGG is not a cure-all but is effective for specific conditions supported by evidence, such as preventing AAD and reducing diarrhea duration.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26365389/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 RCTs (1499 participants) found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) reduces the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD) in children and adults. The effect was particularly significant in children, with a relative risk reduction of 0.48 (95% CI: 0.26-0.89), although the overall quality of evidence was rated as moderate to low.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2018.00124/full – This review discusses the clinical use and efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, highlighting its role in preventing and treating various gastrointestinal conditions. It emphasizes LGG's ability to colonize the gut, produce antimicrobial substances, and modulate the immune system, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2021.727127/full – This meta-analysis of 5 studies (565 participants) found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) enhances the acquisition of tolerance in children with cow's milk allergy (CMA), with a relative risk of 2.22 (95% CI: 1.86-2.66). The study suggests that LGG can be a beneficial adjunct in managing CMA, although the quality of evidence was considered moderate due to potential biases.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31025399/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 RCTs (4208 participants) found that Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) reduces the duration of diarrhea in children with acute gastroenteritis by approximately 0.85 days (95% CI: -1.15 to -0.56). The study notes high heterogeneity and methodological limitations, resulting in a moderate quality of evidence.
- https://www.nmi.health/lactobacillus-rhamnosus-gg-a-review-of-clinical-use-and-efficacy/ – This review provides an overview of the clinical applications and efficacy of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), emphasizing its role in promoting gut health and modulating the immune system. It highlights LGG's ability to colonize the gastrointestinal tract and produce antimicrobial substances, contributing to its therapeutic effects in various gastrointestinal conditions.
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