Lactobacillus reuteri, now formally known as Limosilactobacillus reuteri, is a well-researched probiotic strain with a long history of co-evolving with humans. Unlike many other beneficial bacteria, L. reuteri can colonize the small intestine and produce reuterin, a potent antimicrobial substance that helps manage harmful bacteria and supports overall gut health. The key to obtaining therapeutic levels of this probiotic lies in knowing which products contain Lactobacillus reuteri, which can be categorized into supplements, specialized fermented foods, and some infant products.
Targeted Probiotic Supplements
For consistent and high-dose intake, supplements are often the most reliable source of L. reuteri. The effectiveness of a supplement depends on the specific strain, so it's important to check the label for strain numbers like DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475.
Popular supplement brands with L. reuteri include:
- BioGaia: This is one of the most prominent brands, featuring several products for different needs. BioGaia Protectis drops, containing the DSM 17938 strain, are commonly used for infants to help with colic, reflux, and digestive discomfort. They also offer chewable tablets for older children and adults. BioGaia Gastrus tablets, with strains DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 6475, target specific gut and stomach health benefits.
- Nature's Way: The Primadophilus Reuteri line offers capsules and powders containing L. reuteri, sometimes combined with other strains, to support intestinal flora balance.
- Toniiq: This brand offers high-potency L. reuteri capsules, often alongside a prebiotic to enhance bacterial growth.
- Swanson: Provides L. Reuteri Plus capsules, which often include additional beneficial bacteria like L. rhamnosus and a prebiotic fiber.
Specialized Fermented Foods
While many standard fermented products contain general lactic acid bacteria, the presence and concentration of L. reuteri are highly variable. True therapeutic levels are typically only found in specially made or starter-culture-based products.
Fermented food sources for L. reuteri include:
- L. reuteri Yogurt: This is not a standard store-bought yogurt. It is made at home using a specific starter culture of L. reuteri and incubated for an extended period, often 36 hours, to achieve a high concentration of the bacteria. This process also reduces lactose content, making it easier to digest for some individuals.
- Sourdough Bread: Traditional sourdough starter, created through wild fermentation, can contain L. reuteri. However, commercial sourdough bread often uses baker's yeast and may not contain a significant amount of live probiotics.
- Kefir: Some kefir products, a fermented milk drink, may contain L. reuteri. As with other fermented foods, the specific strains and live count vary depending on the culture and production method.
Probiotic-Enriched Infant Formula
Some infant formulas are fortified with probiotics, including specific strains of L. reuteri, to support the developing gut microbiome. Brands like Nestlé and others may include L. reuteri in their specialized formulas. This is particularly relevant for formula-fed infants who miss the probiotic benefits of breast milk, a natural source of L. reuteri for many babies.
Comparison of L. Reuteri Sources
| Feature | Supplements | Specialized L. reuteri Yogurt | Fermented Foods (Kefir, Sourdough) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliability | High; standardized CFU count guaranteed until expiry. | High, but dependent on preparation method and starter culture. | Low; strain presence and live cell count are inconsistent. |
| Concentration | Very high and consistent; often billions of CFUs per dose. | High; can reach therapeutic levels with proper 36-hour fermentation. | Variable; quantities are typically low and unreliable. |
| Cost | Can be more expensive for high-potency products. | Initial investment for starter culture and incubation equipment, lower long-term cost. | Generally affordable, but not a reliable probiotic source. |
| Convenience | Highly convenient; capsules or drops can be taken daily. | Requires time and effort to prepare regularly. | Readily available but not formulated for high probiotic content. |
| Target Audience | Infants (drops), children (chews), and adults. | Adults and children comfortable with homemade yogurt. | General population; not a targeted probiotic delivery method. |
Important Considerations
It is crucial to differentiate between general fermented foods and products specifically designed to deliver therapeutic levels of L. reuteri. Many store-bought fermented products undergo pasteurization or other processing that eliminates live bacteria. For instance, most commercial sourdough is not a significant source of probiotics. The most reliable options are supplements from reputable brands like BioGaia, Toniiq, and Nature's Way, or making a specialized L. reuteri yogurt at home using a dedicated starter culture.
Furthermore, the effects of L. reuteri are strain-dependent. Different strains have been researched for different benefits, such as DSM 17938 for infantile colic and gastrointestinal issues, and ATCC PTA 6475 for inflammation-related benefits. Therefore, knowing the specific strain in your product is key to targeting a specific health outcome. For a deeper understanding of the different strains and their specific benefits, consult scientific reviews on the topic, such as those available from the NIH and Frontiers in Microbiology.
Conclusion
To acquire therapeutic levels of Lactobacillus reuteri, consumers should focus on high-quality, reputable supplements or learn to make a specific L. reuteri enriched yogurt at home. While some traditional fermented foods like sourdough or kefir may contain trace amounts, they are not reliable sources for consistent probiotic delivery. When choosing a supplement, consider the specific strain and the product's intended purpose, such as addressing infant colic or promoting general gut health. Prioritizing these targeted products ensures you receive the maximum benefits from this well-documented probiotic.
