Lactobacillus rhamnosus

What is Lactobacillus rhamnosus?

Lactobacillus rhamnosus (L. rhamnosus) is a well researched strain of probiotic bacteria. It is a naturally occurring, beneficial microorganism found in the human gastrointestinal tract and the vaginal microbiota. L. rhamnosus is know for its durability as it is able to survive stomach acid and bile to reach the intestines making it highly valuable for use in supplements.

Health Benefits:

Contributes to Digestive Health

L. rhamnosus can contribute to good digestive health and may help to alleviate digestive discomfort by relieving symptoms such as bloating, diarrhoea and cramps. Studies show that this probiotic supports the maintenance of a balanced gut microbiota. For instance, one study found that treatment with L. rhamnosus GG can help to improve intestinal microbiotia and suppress pathogenic overgrowth in patients with Short Bowel Syndrome.

Evidence also indicates that L. rhamnosus can alleviate intestinal barrier dysfunction and suppress proinflammatory cytokines in the intestine, furthering enhancing digestive health and preventing negative symptoms such as food intolerances, bloating and cramping.

Supports Female Intimate Health

L. rhamnosus can also beneficially effect female intimate health by supporting vaginal microbiota balance, increasing healthy bacterium and inhibiting the overgrowth of pathogens. One study found evidence that suggests that treatment with a combination of L. rhamnosus and Lactobacillus acidophilus was synergic and can effectively treat both bacterial vaginosis and aerobic vaginitis.

Boosts Immunity

L. rhamnosus can also help support good health through its immunoregulatory effects. Research has found that treatment with the 1.0320 strain of L rhamnosus enhanced lymphocyte proliferation, promoted Natural Killer cell activity, and improved macrophage phagocytosis activity for immunosuppressed mice.

Typical Use:

L. rhamnosus is commonly used as an ingredient in probiotic supplements aimed at supporting digestive health and products formulated to promote female intimate health. Such supplements can either include L. rhamnosus as a single strain or as part of a multi strain formula.

Alongside its use in health supplements, Lactobacillus species have been consumed for centuries through their use in the production of fermented foods such as yoghurt, kimchi and kefir.