Limosilactobacillus fermentum LF8
Also known as: Lactobacillus fermentum, L. fermentum, Limosilactobacillus fermentum CECT5716, Limosilactobacillus fermentum LF8, Limosilactobacillus fermentum
Overview
Limosilactobacillus fermentum is a Gram-positive, heterofermentative lactic acid bacterium commonly found in fermented foods and the human microbiota, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract. It is classified as a probiotic due to its beneficial effects on host health, including immune modulation and pathogen inhibition. The strain LF8 is one among several studied for its probiotic properties. Research on L. fermentum is mature with multiple clinical trials and systematic reviews, especially on its effects in infants and metabolic diseases. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and included in the EFSA QPS list, indicating a strong safety profile.
Benefits
Limosilactobacillus fermentum offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is the reduction in gastrointestinal infections in infants, particularly when administered early in life. A meta-analysis involving 512 infants showed a significant decrease in gastrointestinal infections with L. fermentum CECT5716 supplementation, demonstrating high clinical significance and statistical support (p < 0.05). It also shows potential anti-diabetic effects, with associations to normalization of body weight, reduction in fasting blood glucose, improved insulin resistance, and lipid profile improvements in diabetic models. Secondary benefits include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to improved metabolic and immune health, and protection against food-derived infections. Infants, especially those born via cesarean section, benefit from reduced gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. Individuals with metabolic disorders like diabetes may experience improved glycemic control and lipid metabolism. Benefits in infants are observed during supplementation periods ranging from 1 to 6 months.
How it works
Limosilactobacillus fermentum exerts its beneficial effects primarily through the modulation of gut microbiota composition, enhancing beneficial bacteria and suppressing pathogens. It produces lactic acid and other metabolites that lower gut pH, creating an unfavorable environment for pathogen growth. The bacterium also modulates the immune system by interacting with intestinal epithelial cells and immune cells, regulating cytokine production, which enhances mucosal immunity and reduces inflammation. Furthermore, it exhibits antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress markers. As a live probiotic, its effects depend on its survival through the gastrointestinal tract and its transient colonization and interaction with the host microbiota.
Side effects
Limosilactobacillus fermentum is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) and is included in the EFSA QPS list, indicating a high safety profile. No significant adverse effects have been reported in human clinical trials, including studies involving infants. Animal studies also show no negative health effects or clinical signs with oral administration. There are no common side effects (occurring in >5% of users) or uncommon side effects (1-5%) reported in clinical trials. Very rare case reports of opportunistic infections (e.g., cholecystitis) have been noted, but causality is unclear and these instances are extremely uncommon (<1%). There are no known significant drug interactions. Immunocompromised individuals should consult healthcare providers before use, as with all probiotics. It is considered safe for special populations, including infants, even those born by cesarean section.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Limosilactobacillus fermentum observed in clinical trials for infants is around 10^8 to 10^9 CFU/day of L. fermentum CECT5716. The optimal dosage range typically falls between 10^8 to 10^10 CFU/day, depending on the specific formulation and the target population or health purpose. There is no established maximum safe dose, as no adverse effects have been reported at doses used in clinical trials; higher doses have not been extensively studied for safety. For preventive benefits against infections in infants, early administration, ideally starting from 1 month of age, is recommended. It is commonly administered in powdered infant formula or as a component of dietary supplements. Survival through gastric acid is critical for its efficacy, and formulations often include protective matrices to ensure viability. No specific cofactors are required, but prebiotics may enhance its colonization and beneficial effects.
FAQs
Is Limosilactobacillus fermentum LF8 safe for infants?
Yes, clinical trials have consistently shown that Limosilactobacillus fermentum, including strain CECT5716, is safe and well-tolerated in infants, even those born by cesarean section.
How quickly can benefits be expected?
For infants, a reduction in gastrointestinal and respiratory infection rates has been observed within months of consistent supplementation, indicating a relatively quick onset of benefits.
Can it be used for diabetes management?
Emerging evidence suggests potential benefits for diabetes management, including improved glucose and lipid profiles. However, more large-scale human randomized controlled trials are needed for conclusive recommendations.
Are there any side effects?
No significant side effects have been reported in clinical studies. It is generally recognized as safe and well-tolerated across various populations, including infants.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34208893/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of L. fermentum CECT5716 in infants. It found a significant reduction in gastrointestinal infections, supporting its efficacy. The study's high quality and rigorous methodology provide strong evidence for this specific strain's benefits.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2022.906924/full – This publication consolidates findings from three double-blind randomized controlled trials involving 512 infants. It demonstrated the safety and efficacy of L. fermentum CECT5716 in reducing both gastrointestinal and respiratory infections, particularly in formula-fed infants. The well-controlled design and statistical significance underscore its high quality.
- https://www.wjgnet.com/1948-9358/full/v13/i9/717.htm – This review summarizes experimental and clinical evidence regarding the anti-diabetic properties of L. fermentum. It highlights improvements in glucose metabolism and lipid profiles, suggesting potential benefits for metabolic health. While promising, the review notes the need for more large-scale randomized controlled trials to confirm these findings.