Gut probiotics: what are the benefits of Lactobacillus rhamnosus?
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a species of lactic acid bacteria naturally present in the human digestive tract. It is frequently found in probiotics.
Reminder: What is a probiotic?
The definition of probiotics has been validated by, among others, the WHO.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when ingested in sufficient quantities, can benefit our bodies. They consist primarily of bacteria such as bifidobacteria, lactobacilli, and lactococci, as well as yeasts like saccharomycetes. They are found naturally in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, or in the form of dietary supplements. Consuming them can help improve the composition of our gut microbiota, which plays an important role in our digestive, metabolic, immune, and neurological health.
Is the effectiveness of probiotics recognized?
Health authorities have approved certain claims for probiotics. It is now permitted in France to use the following claim for food supplements that meet the definition of probiotics: "Probiotics support the balance of the intestinal flora (microbiota)."
Reminder: What is the microbiota?
Microbiota are ecosystems made up of microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts, viruses, etc.) that inhabit different areas of our body. In this article, we are talking about the gut microbiota, that is, the ecosystem within our intestines.
The gut microbiota is a balanced ecosystem; the different populations of microorganisms that compose it allow for optimal nutrient utilization and contribute to good intestinal health. A "healthy" microbiota helps maintain intestinal integrity and function. It has been observed that in many situations (obesity, antibiotic treatments, intestinal diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.), the microbiota is no longer in a state of balance; some species become overabundant while others become too scarce—this is called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is detrimental to the proper functioning and health of the intestines.
The composition of the microbiota is not universal.
The composition of the microbiota varies from one individual to another and is notably influenced by external factors. Factors such as obesity, certain diseases, antibiotic treatments, diets low in fruits and vegetables, consumption of fermented products (yogurt, kefir, etc.) and aging influence the composition and diversity of the microbiota and alter its function for better or for worse.
What is a lactobacillus?
Lactobacilli are a genus of bacteria belonging to the family Lactobacillaceae. They are found in our bodies and are constituents of the oral, vaginal, and intestinal microbiomes in varying proportions depending on their location. They are found in food, and certain species of lactobacilli are used in the production of lacto-fermented foods.
What is Lactobacillus rhamnosus?
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a lactobacillus, a bacterium belonging to the family Lactobacillaceae.
Certain strains are used as probiotics for their positive effect on the gut microbiota and intestinal function. This is particularly true of Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG (also known as Lactobacillus rhamnonus ATCC53103 or L. rhamnonus GG or LGG), which is found in Flore Daily, Phytocea's probiotic food supplement.
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG has been extensively studied and is found in many dietary supplements at varying doses. Like other probiotics, L. rhamnonus GG does not establish a lasting colonization in the digestive tract and gradually disappears when intake is discontinued.
What are the effects of L. rhamnonus GG ?
The general effects of Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG possesses numerous properties. Indeed, LGG has been shown to have many interesting characteristics that make it a probiotic of choice, including:
- It adheres more easily and effectively to mucous cells than other lactobacilli; this property allows it to integrate well into the intestine;
- It contributes to the regulation/restoration of intestinal permeability;
- It has been shown (in vitro and in vivo) that it possesses immunomodulatory properties and stimulates the immune response;
- It reduces the harmful effect of pro-inflammatory cytokines on the intestinal barrier;
- It has been shown (in vitro) to possess bactericidal capabilities against gastric and enteric pathogens.
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG and diarrhea
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG is a long-studied probiotic used for its beneficial effects on intestinal health, particularly in the treatment of diarrhea. Indeed, the prevention and management of diarrhea (especially following antibiotic treatment) are among the well-established effects of L. rhamnonus GG. It has been shown that L. rhamnonus GG reduces both stool frequency and the duration of diarrhea. The positive effects of L. rhamnonus GG on intestinal transit have been observed in numerous placebo-controlled clinical studies.
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG in case of dysbiosis
Dysbiosis is a disruption of the microbiota balance, caused by various factors (poor diet, disease, antibiotic treatments) and resulting in a decrease in the quantity of beneficial bacteria, an increase in the quantity of pathogenic bacteria and a decrease in bacterial diversity.
L. rhamnonus GG is of great interest in cases of dysbiosis because it stimulates immune responses and colonizes the digestive tract, thereby reducing pathogenic species. These properties make it relevant for both the prevention and treatment of intestinal dysbiosis.
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG in case of functional bowel disorder
Functional bowel disorder refers to problems with bowel function that are not associated with damage. These disorders are commonly known as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
These functional disorders cause pain and impair quality of life. Common conditions include:
- irritable bowel syndrome
- bloating
- diarrhea
- constipation
The management of functional disorders is done (note that this is not universal and it is advisable to consult a specialist for personalized advice) using adapted diets, drug treatment and probiotics.
Microbiota alterations are present in functional disorders and are a component of its syndrome.
Among the probiotics used to relieve functional disorders, LGG is frequently used. It has been shown that abdominal pain associated with irritable bowel syndrome is reduced by taking LGG. Furthermore, LGG facilitates the normalization of the gut microbiota composition and is effective in helping to regulate bowel movements.
Other properties of Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG
Numerous other properties have been described with varying degrees of certainty, particularly regarding its supposed effects in cases of cancer or cancer treatment. These properties will not be detailed in this article. It is important to remember that during illness, and especially during cancer treatment, it is crucial to consult with your doctor to ensure that taking dietary supplements is compatible with your specific treatment plan.
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG in Phytocea
Lactobacillus rhamnonus GG is an essential probiotic, and at Phytocea, we've chosen to include it in the Flore Daily formula. Flore Daily is a probiotic food supplement containing over 50 billion CFU (colony forming units), making it one of the most concentrated probiotics on the market. Furthermore, the Flore Daily formula uses a unique blend of probiotic strains, with 11 carefully selected probiotics to help you regain true intestinal comfort.
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Sources
- Gut flora, prebiotics, probiotics: essential concepts
- Reflorize or flourish? What are probiotics and prebiotics?
- Markowiak P, Śliżewska K. Effects of Probiotics, Prebiotics, and Synbiotics on Human Health. 2017 Sep 15;9(9):1021. doi:10.3390/nu9091021.
- Treatment of functional bowel disorders
- Thirty Years of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: A Review
- Irritable bowel syndrome
