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rhamnosus

Also known as: Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus casei subsp. rhamnosus, L. rhamnosus, LGG, Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus

Overview

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, commonly known as L. rhamnosus, is a species of lactic acid bacteria widely recognized as a probiotic. It is naturally found in fermented foods and is a common inhabitant of the human gut. This bacterium is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements due to its beneficial effects on human health, particularly in supporting gastrointestinal function and modulating the immune system. While historically classified under Lactobacillus, it has been reclassified as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus. The specific strain L. rhamnosus GG (LGG) is one of the most extensively researched and utilized strains, known for its robust survival in the harsh conditions of the digestive tract. Its primary applications include the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea, management of certain allergic conditions like cow's milk allergy, and general immune support. Research on L. rhamnosus is extensive, with a moderate to high level of maturity, though the strength of evidence varies depending on the specific health condition.

Benefits

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around gut health and immune modulation. One of its most significant and well-supported uses is the prevention of antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). A meta-analysis indicated that L. rhamnosus GG is effective in reducing the risk of AAD, with a notable effect in patients undergoing Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy. This benefit is particularly relevant for both children and adults. Another key benefit is its role in managing cow's milk allergy (CMA) in children. A systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated that L. rhamnosus GG can improve outcomes in children with CMA, specifically by increasing the negative rate of fecal occult blood tests. While the evidence for its efficacy in atopic dermatitis and other allergic conditions is less consistent, some systematic reviews suggest potential benefits in reducing the severity of atopic dermatitis, though more research is needed to confirm these effects. The time to observe benefits can range from a few days to several weeks, depending on the condition being addressed.

How it works

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus exerts its beneficial effects primarily through its interaction with the gastrointestinal system and subsequent modulation of the immune system. As a probiotic, it colonizes the gut, where it contributes to a balanced microbiota by competing with harmful bacteria for nutrients and adhesion sites. It enhances the intestinal barrier function, which helps prevent the translocation of pathogens and toxins from the gut into the bloodstream. Furthermore, L. rhamnosus influences the immune system by modulating cytokine production and immune cell activity, leading to a more balanced immune response. Unlike many other supplements, L. rhamnosus is not absorbed systemically; its actions are localized within the gut lumen, where it establishes a beneficial microbial environment.

Side effects

Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus is generally considered safe for consumption in healthy individuals. The most common side effects, occurring in over 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. These symptoms are typically transient and resolve with continued use or dosage adjustment. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) have not been consistently reported. Rare but serious side effects, occurring in less than 1% of cases, include the potential for sepsis in severely immunocompromised individuals. This risk, while extremely low, necessitates caution. There are no significant drug interactions reported with L. rhamnosus. However, it is generally contraindicated for individuals who are severely immunocompromised, critically ill, or have a compromised immune system, as the risk of bacteremia or fungemia, though rare, is elevated in these populations. Special consideration should be given to these vulnerable groups, and consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended before use.

Dosage

The typical minimum effective dose for Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus ranges from 1 to 10 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per day. The optimal dosage range for various conditions is generally between 1 and 20 billion CFU per day. For instance, higher doses might be considered for specific therapeutic purposes like antibiotic-associated diarrhea prevention. While a maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, doses up to 20 billion CFU per day are commonly used and considered safe in healthy individuals. To enhance the survival of the bacteria through the acidic stomach environment, it is generally recommended to take L. rhamnosus supplements with food. L. rhamnosus is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and as an ingredient in fermented foods. As a probiotic, its action is local within the gut, and therefore, absorption factors and required cofactors are not applicable.

FAQs

How should I store L. rhamnosus supplements?

To maintain the viability of live cultures, ensure your L. rhamnosus product is stored according to the manufacturer's instructions, often in a cool, dry place or refrigerated.

Is L. rhamnosus safe for everyone?

While generally safe for healthy individuals, those who are severely immunocompromised or critically ill should consult a healthcare provider before use due to a rare risk of infection.

When is the best time to take L. rhamnosus?

It is generally recommended to take L. rhamnosus supplements with meals. This helps to protect the bacteria from stomach acid, improving their survival and effectiveness in the gut.

How long does it take to see benefits from L. rhamnosus?

The time to observe benefits can vary depending on the condition being treated, ranging from a few days for acute issues like antibiotic-associated diarrhea to several weeks for more chronic conditions.

Are all L. rhamnosus products the same?

No, not all L. rhamnosus products are the same. Probiotic effects are often strain-specific, meaning that the benefits observed with one strain, like LGG, may not apply to all other L. rhamnosus strains.

Research Sources

https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.13404 – This meta-analysis investigated the efficacy of L. rhamnosus GG in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). It found that L. rhamnosus GG was effective in reducing the risk of AAD, particularly in patients undergoing Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy, suggesting a significant protective effect in this specific context.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2021.727127/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the impact of L. rhamnosus GG on cow's milk allergy (CMA) in children. The findings indicated that L. rhamnosus GG can improve outcomes in children with CMA, specifically by increasing the negative rate of fecal occult blood tests, highlighting its potential therapeutic role.
https://www.actasdermo.org/en-probiotics-reduce-severity-atopic-dermatitis-articulo-S1578219021002973 – This systematic review and meta-analysis explored the effect of probiotics, including L. rhamnosus, on atopic dermatitis. It concluded that probiotics might help reduce the severity of atopic dermatitis, although the evidence was mixed and showed high heterogeneity among studies, suggesting the need for further research.