Understanding Lactobacillus Gasseri
Lactobacillus gasseri is a species of "good" bacteria naturally residing in the human body, particularly in the gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, and is a dominant species in the vaginal microbiota of healthy women. Like other probiotics, it is a lactic acid-producing bacterium that helps maintain a balanced and healthy microbial environment. It can be found in certain fermented foods, and it is also commonly available in dietary supplements. The wide-ranging health effects attributed to the Gasseri strain are highly dependent on the specific strain, with different strains showing varying degrees of efficacy for different conditions.
The Gasseri Strain and Weight Management
One of the most compelling and heavily researched aspects of the Gasseri strain is its potential role in weight management and fat reduction. Several studies have explored the effects of specific L. gasseri strains, particularly SBT2055 and BNR17, on body weight and fat accumulation.
Mechanisms of action for weight control
Research suggests L. gasseri can influence weight through several pathways:
- Leptin Regulation: L. gasseri has been shown to support leptin, a hormone that regulates energy metabolism, fat storage, and appetite control. Leptin signals fullness and satiety, and a decline in its levels during weight loss can contribute to the "yo-yo effect." By potentially influencing leptin, the Gasseri strain may help manage appetite and metabolism.
- Fat Absorption: Certain strains of L. gasseri have been observed to reduce the absorption of fat from the diet and to promote the excretion of fats. This mechanism is thought to contribute to a reduction in overall fat mass.
- Metabolic Influence: Studies suggest that L. gasseri can up-regulate the expression of genes related to fatty acid oxidation, which helps the body burn fat for energy.
Comparison of weight management benefits by strain
| Feature | Lactobacillus gasseri SBT2055 | Lactobacillus gasseri BNR17 |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Commonly used in fermented milk products. | Isolated from human breast milk. |
| Research Focus | Significant reduction in abdominal and visceral fat in clinical trials involving obese adults. | Shown slight but not always statistically significant reductions in weight, waist, and hip circumference. |
| Key Mechanism | Reduces fat absorption after meals. | Affects genes related to fatty acid oxidation and reduces levels of leptin. |
Improving Gut and Digestive Health
As a probiotic, the Gasseri strain naturally supports the digestive system and contributes to a balanced gut microbiome.
- Inhibiting Pathogens: L. gasseri produces lactic acid, which helps to suppress the growth of harmful bacteria and strengthens the gut's natural barrier.
- Managing IBS and Bloating: Supplementation with L. gasseri has been linked to a reduction in symptoms for individuals with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), including bloating and discomfort.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Research in animal models suggests that certain L. gasseri strains, like G098, can help mitigate symptoms of colitis by modulating immune responses and restoring gut microbiota diversity.
Promoting Women's Health
The Gasseri strain is particularly noted for its role in women's intimate health due to its presence in the vaginal flora.
- Vaginal Flora Balance: A healthy vagina is dominated by Lactobacillus species. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV). Studies show that L. gasseri can help improve vaginal health and prevent BV recurrence, often acting through the oral-gut-vaginal pathway.
- Endometriosis Pain: A small, randomized, double-blind study found that L. gasseri was effective in lessening menstrual pain and dysmenorrhea in women with endometriosis.
Immunomodulatory and Anti-inflammatory Effects
The benefits of the Gasseri strain extend to supporting the immune system and managing inflammation.
- Regulating Cytokines: Research indicates that L. gasseri can modulate the immune response by influencing cytokines, which are responsible for regulating inflammation. For instance, L. gasseri has been shown to reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6 in Helicobacter pylori-infected macrophages.
- Reducing Inflammation: Through its anti-inflammatory actions, L. gasseri has been shown to reduce the severity of colitis in animal models and may help protect against hepatic inflammation associated with fatty liver.
- Innate Immunity: L. gasseri interacts with the host's innate immune system and can influence pathways that contribute to gut homeostasis.
Sources and Supplementation
The Gasseri strain is available in various forms, from fermented foods to dietary supplements.
How to get L. gasseri in your diet
- Fermented Foods: Certain fermented dairy products, such as yogurt or kefir, may contain Lactobacillus gasseri. Always check the label for "live and active cultures".
- Specialty Products: Some fermented milk products are specifically enriched with particular L. gasseri strains, like SBT2055, and marketed for their health benefits.
Considering L. gasseri supplements
- Strain Specificity: If targeting a specific health concern like weight management, it is crucial to choose a supplement with a strain backed by research, such as SBT2055 or BNR17.
- CFU Count: The potency of a supplement is indicated by its Colony Forming Units (CFUs). Doses vary between strains and studies, so following product recommendations is key.
- Consult a Professional: As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare provider is recommended, especially for pregnant or immunocompromised individuals.
Conclusion
What does the Gasseri strain do? The evidence suggests it is a multifaceted probiotic with scientifically supported roles in weight management, digestive health, women's intimate health, and immune system modulation. Its efficacy is often dependent on the specific strain, and while some findings are highly promising, particularly regarding abdominal fat reduction and vaginal health, more research is ongoing. Incorporating L. gasseri through fermented foods or targeted supplementation, under professional guidance, may offer significant health benefits for many individuals. For authoritative medical guidance and scientific studies on probiotics, you can explore resources like the National Institutes of Health.
