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A hidden miracle in your gut: What's so magical about Limosilactobacillus reuteri?
Limosilactobacillus reuteri (L. reuteri for short) is a lactic acid bacterium found in a variety of natural environments, including the intestines of humans and animals. This bacterium does not appear to be a pathogen and may instead be beneficial to health. As scientific research progresses, more and more people are paying attention to the potential health benefits of this tiny creature.
The journey of discovery
The history of L. reuteri dates back to the early 20th century. At the time, this bacterium was incorrectly classified as part of the fermentative lactic acid bacteria group. In the 1960s, microbiologist Gerhard Reuter re-examined this species and proposed a new classification. In 1980, this bacterium was officially identified as an independent species, L. reuteri, and was reclassified to the genus Limosilactobacillus in 2020.
Ubiquity
L. reuteri is found in a variety of natural environments, especially in meat and dairy products. The bacteria can be found in intestinal and fecal samples from healthy humans, sheep, chickens, pigs and rodents. Various hosts appear to harbor specific strains of L. reuteri, which may indicate a role in host health.
Health effects
Antibacterial properties
L. reuteri is known to produce a variety of substances with antibacterial effects, such as reuterin, reutericin 6 and reutericyclin. As early as the 1980s, researchers discovered that L. reuteri can produce reuterin, a new broad-spectrum antibiotic, by fermenting glycerol. This substance has an inhibitory effect on a variety of harmful bacteria and other pathogens, effectively removing invading harmful microorganisms from the intestines without damaging beneficial intestinal flora.
With further research into L. reuteri, scientists have discovered that the bacterium’s antibacterial properties allow it to optimize health benefits in the digestive system.
Clinical study results
Although L. reuteri occurs naturally in the human body, not everyone has it. Through dietary supplementation, individuals deficient in this bacterium can maintain high concentrations of L. reuteri in their intestines. Studies have shown that oral administration of L. reuteri effectively colonizes the intestines of healthy individuals and has shown that it is also abundant in breast milk.
Gut health
The efficacy of L. reuteri in treating diarrheal diseases in children has been well documented. The study found that prophylactic use of L. reuteri given to healthy children significantly reduced the incidence of diarrhea. For neonatal intestinal health, especially in low birth weight infants, the use of L. reuteri has shown potential to reduce the risk of sepsis and shorten the length of hospital care.
Promoting gastrointestinal health
Studies have shown that L. reuteri has significant effects against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori). This bacterium is commonly found in people with stomach ulcers in developing countries. Studies have shown that L. reuteri can significantly improve the success rate of treatment when used in combination with other therapies (such as omeprazole).
Impact on oral health
L. reuteri has also shown potential to improve oral health, with studies finding it is effective against the bacteria Streptococcus that causes dental caries. Short-term clinical trials have shown that people who consume L. reuteri experience significant reductions in cariogenic bacteria, which may help reduce the risk of dental caries.
Promotion of general health
The role of L. reuteri in promoting overall health cannot be ignored. Research shows that this bacteria that lives in the intestines can reduce the incidence of disease in children and adults and strengthen the immune system. Individuals who continued to acquire L. reuteri had lower disease incidence, medical needs, and absenteeism rates than controls.
Future potential
With further research on L. reuteri, it is expected to be a potential key to preventing and treating a variety of health problems in the future. Not only that, but its potential in maintaining microbial balance and maintaining intestinal, oral and even bone health makes the role of this microorganism even more important.
Whether it is in digestion, immunity, or overall health, Limosilactobacillus reuteri has shown amazing potential. Will you start to pay attention to this "hidden treasure" in the intestines?
