Understanding Lactobacillus reuteri and its Probiotic Role
Lactobacillus reuteri is a species of lactic acid bacteria that is a natural inhabitant of the human gut, playing a crucial role in maintaining a balanced microbiome. Modern diets and antibiotic use have caused this beneficial microbe to decline in many individuals, prompting a surge in supplements containing this strain. The benefits of L. reuteri include improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and support for gastrointestinal regularity. Different strains of L. reuteri are associated with different health outcomes, so selecting a product with a clinically researched strain is key.
Key Strains of Lactobacillus reuteri
Different products utilize specific, proprietary strains of L. reuteri, often denoted by a unique alphanumeric code. These are some of the most notable strains you will find on the market:
- L. reuteri DSM 17938: This strain is perhaps the most clinically studied for infant health, particularly for supporting digestion and reducing colic. It is a well-tolerated and effective strain found in many BioGaia products.
- L. reuteri RC-14: Developed specifically for women's intimate flora, this strain is proven to survive the journey to the vaginal tract to help maintain a healthy balance. It is often paired with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1.
- L. reuteri LRDR™: This proprietary human-origin strain was formulated by Dr. William Davis and is known for its high concentration and resilience. It is offered in various potencies and can be used as both a supplement and a yogurt starter.
- L. reuteri UALre-16™: Included in some multi-strain formulas, like Nature's Way Primadophilus, this strain helps fortify the intestinal tract and supports overall digestive health.
Products Featuring Lactobacillus reuteri
Several brands offer supplements that contain Lactobacillus reuteri. The formulation—whether a capsule, drop, or powder—often depends on the intended user, such as infants, adults, or those with specific health goals.
- For Infants and Children: BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops are a leading product containing L. reuteri DSM 17938. Pediatricians worldwide recommend these drops for addressing common digestive issues like colic and diarrhea in infants. The product is safe for long-term use and is often enriched with vitamin D3.
- For Women's Health: Optibac Probiotics for Women is a popular supplement that combines L. reuteri RC-14 with L. rhamnosus GR-1 to support vaginal and urinary tract health. The capsules are shelf-stable and don't require refrigeration.
- High Potency for Adults: Toniiq and Peak Performance offer high-CFU L. reuteri capsules for adults seeking intensive gut support. Toniiq's product boasts 50 billion CFU per serving and is combined with a prebiotic, fructooligosaccharides (FOS). Peak Performance also offers a synbiotic blend featuring 50 billion CFU with PreticX® XOS, a prebiotic.
- Multi-strain Formulas: Swanson L. Reuteri Plus is an affordable option that combines L. reuteri with L. rhamnosus and L. acidophilus, along with FOS prebiotic fiber. Nature's Way Primadophilus Reuteri is another multi-strain blend available in both capsule and powder forms, making it suitable for both children and adults.
- Yogurt Starters: For those who prefer fermented foods, products like Oxiceutics MyReuteri can be used as a starter culture to make homemade, potent probiotic yogurt. This process can yield exceptionally high live culture counts.
How to Choose the Right L. reuteri Probiotic
Selecting the best L. reuteri product depends on your individual needs. When comparing options, consider the following factors:
- Specific Strain: For targeted benefits, check the label for the specific strain. For example, choose BioGaia products with DSM 17938 for infants or Optibac with RC-14 for women's intimate health. Not all products specify the exact strain, so research brands known for transparency, like BioGaia or Oxiceutics.
- CFU Count: Higher CFU counts are not always better, but they are important for efficacy. Compare CFU counts per serving and, if needed, choose a higher dose for intensive support. The CFU count is often guaranteed until the expiry date for reputable brands.
- Delivery Format: Probiotics are available in capsules, drops, powders, and chewable tablets. Capsules and drops often offer delayed-release technology to protect the bacteria from stomach acid. Powders can be mixed with food or drink for those who cannot swallow capsules.
- Inclusion of Prebiotics: Many L. reuteri supplements are synbiotic, meaning they contain prebiotics (such as FOS or XOS) to nourish the probiotic bacteria and help them thrive.
- Storage Requirements: Some L. reuteri products require refrigeration to maintain potency, while others are shelf-stable. Be sure to follow the storage instructions to ensure the product's effectiveness.
Comparison of Popular L. reuteri Probiotics
| Feature | BioGaia Protectis (DSM 17938) Drops | Oxiceutics MyReuteri (LRDR™) Capsules | Optibac Probiotics for Women (RC-14) Capsules | Swanson L. Reuteri Plus Capsules |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Infants, Children | Adults, also usable as yogurt starter | Adult Women | Adults |
| CFU Count | 100 million CFU per 5 drops | 10, 20, or 50 billion CFU per capsule | 2.5 billion CFU per capsule | 5 billion CFU of L. reuteri per capsule |
| Key Strains | L. reuteri DSM 17938 | L. reuteri LRDR™ | L. reuteri RC-14 and L. rhamnosus GR-1 | L. reuteri, L. rhamnosus, L. acidophilus |
| Prebiotic Included? | No | Yes, FOS | No | Yes, FOS |
| Best For | Infant colic and digestive health | Intensive gut support or homemade probiotic yogurt | Intimate and urinary tract health | Broad-spectrum digestive support |
Conclusion
For those wondering which probiotic has Lactobacillus reuteri?, the answer is that many reputable brands offer this beneficial strain in a variety of formulations. Whether you are seeking support for an infant with colic, managing specific intimate health concerns, or simply aiming to bolster your overall gut health, options from BioGaia, Oxiceutics, Optibac, and Swanson provide clinically researched choices. By considering the specific strain, CFU count, and delivery format, you can select the most appropriate supplement to support your nutritional and dietary needs. Before beginning any new supplement regimen, it is wise to consult a healthcare professional to ensure it aligns with your health requirements.
