Lactobacillus Plantarum
Benefits of Lactobacillus Plantarum
- Gut microbiome
- Vaginal microbiome
- Digestion
- Form: Healthy bacteria
- Food source: Fermented foods like miso, kimchi and sauerkraut, and some plant-based yoghurts.
What is Lactobacillus Plantarum?
Lactobacillus plantarum is part of our gut microbiome. The gut and vagina are also connected via the 'gut-vagina' axis. The vaginal microbiome is made up of a range of microorganisms, and L. plantarum is one of the 'good' bacteria that live alongside other species there.
What does the research say about Lactobacillus Plantarum?
Compared to other bacteria, Lactobacillus plantarum has been researched extensively in relation to digestion. A controlled, double-blind, randomised study of the L. plantarum 299v strain looked at its effects on the digestive tract, including wind. Live bacteria more widely have also been studied for their effects on stool consistency. Gut bacteria produce short-chain fatty acids, which have been studied for their role in peristalsis (the constriction and relaxation of muscles in the intestine).
L. plantarum has also been studied in relation to cholesterol. Some bacteria can take up cholesterol, and a study of three L. plantarum strains (CECT 7527, 7528 and 7529) looked at their effect on blood cholesterol levels in adults.
It's important to remember that the relationship is a mutual one; this bacteria needs to be thriving and healthy itself. Gut bacteria need fibrous prebiotics as their food, so we need to include these in our diet too. One of the most important of these is Inulin, which can be found in a range of fruit and vegetables.
Form: Live bacteria.
You may also enjoy reading 'What is vaginal atrophy?', 'What is Bacterial Vaginosis?', '4 tips to manage cholesterol' and 'The impact of your gut on your heart'. You may be interested in reading 'What is IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)?', 'IBS explained' and 'Best probiotics for IBS'.
Why it's in pH Hero®
Lactobacillus plantarum produces lactic acid and bacteriocins, which inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.1,2 L. plantarum strengthens the mucosal barrier, preventing the entry of pathogens and maintaining the integrity of the vaginal and gastrointestinal linings. This strain has surface adhesins, such as proteins and polysaccharides, to bind to the intestinal mucosa, preventing the attachment of harmful bacteria like Clostridium difficile and Escherichia coli. This strain promotes the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) and cytokines, such as IL-10, which help regulate immune responses and reduce inflammation.3
Why it's in Gut Works®
Lactobacillus plantarum is a versatile probiotic strain with a wide range of applications for gastrointestinal and systemic health. It substantially enhances gut barrier integrity, decreases enterocyte apoptosis, improves intestinal oxidative stress, promotes the activity and expression of protein kinase, and enhances phosphorylation.4 L. plantarum exhibits extensive antimicrobial activity through the production of bacteriocins.5 This antimicrobial effect contributes to its efficacy in managing conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and gut dysbiosis. A key feature of L. plantarum is its strong anti-inflammatory properties. It modulates the immune system by balancing pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, which is particularly beneficial in managing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis.6,7,8
Why it's in HeartPro®
Lactobacillus plantarum is a probiotic belonging to the class of bile salt hydrolase-active bacteria. Bacteria in this class metabolise cholesterol in the gut and prevent cholesterol resorption. After cholesterol is released in bile, it is usually reabsorbed and recycled; however, once metabolised by bile salt hydrolase-active bacteria, the bile becomes unrecyclable, and the cholesterol of the body’s cholesterol stores is used up to make new bile.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus
Lactobacillus rhamnosus is an extensively studied 'good bacteria' that exists naturally in your body, helping prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in your stomach.
Lemon Balm
Lemon Balm is acclaimed for helping support relaxation and improving digestion.
Milk Thistle Seed Extract
Milk Thistle supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy liver, protecting and supporting the detoxification of the liver and promoting the body's natural purification.
Psyllium Husk
Psyllium Husk (Plantago ovata) is a fibre and contributes to intestinal tract health and function, helping maintain a healthy bowel and facilitating intestinal transit.
Streptococcus Thermophilus
Streptococcus Thermophilus is a type of ‘good’ bacteria that live in our gut ‘microbiome’ and has a range of healthy functions in our body.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is an antioxidant, a compound that keeps the number of unstable molecules (known as ‘free radicals') at a healthy level in the body.
Amla Berry
Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, can help protect and soothe the oesophageal lining irritated by gastric acid.
Apple
Apples contain pectin which is a unique type of dietary fibre. Pectin is a soluble fibre that supports healthy and normal blood cholesterol levels, and studies also show it can help manage blood glucose.
