Lactobacillus rhamnosus: The Health Benefits of Probiotics
Published September 03, 2015 If you're familiar with probiotics, you may also be familiar with the fact that there are many different strains of beneficial bacteria. One strain, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, may not be one you're as familiar with, but it still holds some very impressive health benefits. This strain, among all the others, exist in what is called our "mircobiome," which basically consists of the microbial genes that reside in your system. Good bacteria and bad bacteria live here, but it's the helpful kind that keeps the harmful variety in check.
The Benefits of Lactobacillus Rhamnosus
Studies involving the Lactobacillus strain of bacteria suggest supplementation could lessen feelings of anxiety or ease symptoms of depression. Combining these probiotics with prebiotics also show significant benefits in mood health. [1] [2] One study suggests taking L. rhamnosus might counteract weight gain and diabetes, and there's a lot of research examining the benefits as a treatment for gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome. [3] Another study suggests a link between good bacteria and seasonal allergies, particularly with hay fever. [4]
Now, one cool thing about L. rhamnosus is that it can stay happy in rough conditions. Anyone who has ever had acid reflux knows how stomach acid can cause discomfort. Well, this probiotic strain actually thrives in an acidic stomach. [5] If you're looking for something to strengthen your overall immune function, L. rhamnosus could help there. A promising study suggests this strain could be just as helpful as an antibiotic for treating urinary tract infections. [6]
How to Take Lactobacillus Rhamnosus
Taking a probiotic containing L. rhamnosus can certainly be beneficial, but it's important to take prebiotics to strengthen its effects. Prebiotics are sort of like the "food" that probiotics need to thrive and grow. If you're looking for foods with probiotics or taking a top-quality probiotic supplement, make sure you're looking for prebiotics as well. Many foods that contain prebiotics include garlic, chicory, and onions.
Do you take probiotics? What changes have you noticed in your health?
-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, NP, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM
References:
- Bravo, J. et al. Ingestion of Lactobacillus strain regulates emotional behavior and central GABA receptor expression in a mouse via the vagus nerve. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. 108 (38).
- Schmidt, K. et al. Prebiotic intake reduces the waking cortisol response and alters emotional bias in healthy volunteers. Psychopharmacology. 232 (10).
- Yadav, H. et al. Beneficial metabolic effects of a probiotic via butyrate induced GLP-1 secretion. The Journal of Biological Chemistry.
- Zajac, A. et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of probiotics for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. International Forum of Allergy and Rhinology. 5 (6).
- P. L. Conway, S. L. Gorbach, B. R. Goldin. Survival of Lactic Acid Bacteria in the Human Stomach and Adhesion to Intestinal Cells. Journal of Dairy Science. Volume 70, Issue 1, Pages 1-12. DOI: 10.3168/jds.S0022-0302(87)79974-3.
- Beerepoot, M. A. et al. Lactobacilli vs antibiotics to prevent urinary tract infections: a randomized, double-blind, noninferiority trial in postmenopausal women. Archives of Internal Medicine. 172 (9).
The post Lactobacillus rhamnosus: The Health Benefits of Probiotics appeared first on Dr. Group's Natural Health & Organic Living Blog.
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