Proprietary Lactobacillus And Lactococcus Blend
Also known as: Probiotic blend, Lactobacillus-Lactococcus blend, Lactobacillus species, Lactococcus species, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus and Lactococcus Blend
Overview
The proprietary Lactobacillus and Lactococcus blend represents a category of probiotics, which are live microorganisms similar to beneficial microorganisms in the human body. Commonly found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, probiotics support various health outcomes. The key applications include promoting gut health, preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), and supporting immune function. Different strains exhibit strain-specific efficacy, underscoring the importance of strain selection based on desired health outcomes. Despite the extensive research on probiotics, the quality of evidence can vary, with systematic reviews and high-quality articles offering the most robust insights into their effectiveness.
Benefits
Probiotics, particularly this blend, show evidence-based benefits in several areas: 1) **Prevention of AAD**: A meta-analysis revealed a significant reduction in AAD risk (rel. risk 0.58) across 11,811 participants. 2) **Immune System Modulation**: Meta-analyses suggest that specific strains like Lactobacillus plantarum enhance regulation of cytokines, promoting an immune balance. 3) **Metabolic Syndrome Management**: Probiotics positively impact body fat percentage and LDL cholesterol levels, as evidenced by several studies on diverse populations. Strongest effects noted in children and adults, particularly with *L. rhamnosus* GG. Overall, the evidence demonstrates clinically meaningful outcomes for selected strains.
How it works
Probiotics are thought to work by colonizing the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing gut barrier function, and modulating immune responses. They interact with gut microbiota and the immune system, influencing cytokine production and immune mediator levels, contributing to improved gut health and immune modulation. Their viability and ability to colonize the gut are essential for efficacy, while their direct absorption into the bloodstream is not applicable, as they act locally within the gut.
Side effects
Probiotics are generally considered safe, but some individuals may experience mild side effects, primarily gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort (occurring in >5% of users). Rarely (<1%), infections may develop in immunocompromised individuals. A small percentage may report allergic reactions (1-5%). Caution is recommended for those with severe immunodeficiency or serious illness. Additionally, while there are no significant interactions with common medications, immunocompromised patients should seek medical advice before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult healthcare providers to ensure safety.
Dosage
Recommended doses typically range from 10^9 to 10^10 Colony-Forming Units (CFU) daily, varying by strain and health outcome. For AAD prevention, effective studies suggest administering probiotics alongside antibiotics. While no maximum safe dose is established, higher doses do not always yield increased benefits. Assessing product viability to ensure effectiveness until expiration is crucial. Diverse forms such as capsules, tablets, and fermented foods are available, with consideration for timing during antibiotic treatment for optimal efficacy.
FAQs
How long should I take probiotics?
Probiotics are typically recommended for the duration of antibiotic treatment and a few days following its cessation.
Are probiotics safe for everyone?
Generally safe for most, but consult healthcare providers if immunocompromised or critically ill.
What are the common side effects?
Mild gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating and gas, are the most frequently reported side effects.
When should I take probiotics?
Probiotics should be taken concurrently with antibiotics to maximize their effectiveness in preventing associated diarrhea.
Are all probiotics the same?
No, their effects can vary significantly based on the specific strains used, making strain selection important.
Research Sources
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/1151505 – This systematic review and meta-analysis involved 63 randomized controlled trials with 11,811 participants, confirming that probiotic administration significantly lowers the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, with a relative risk of 0.58.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2021.643420/full – This meta-analysis evaluated 18 RCTs and concluded that Lactobacillus plantarum can effectively modulate pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, significantly affecting immune function.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/14/3/682 – A systematic review assessing probiotics' impact on metabolic syndrome indicated improvements in body fat percentage and LDL levels through multiple lactobacillus and bifidobacterium strains across 18 RCTs and 1,544 participants.
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