Lactobacillus Reuteri

What is Lactobacillus Reuteri?

Lactobacillus reuteri is a 'good' bacteria that has been studied in relation to the vaginal microbiome. The vagina is naturally more acidic than the rest of the body (pH 3.8–4.5, compared with 7.4), and the mix of bacteria living there changes when that pH shifts.

What does the research say about Lactobacillus Reuteri?

The L. reuteri RC-14 strain, for example, has been studied together with L. rhamnosus GR-1. Lactobacillus cultures have been studied for their effect on the balance of the vaginal microbiome, and L. reuteri has also been studied for its antimicrobial activity. Researchers have reviewed the role of live bacteria in vaginal health, and L. reuteri's role in the gut has been studied widely too.

Form: Live bacteria.

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Why it's in OsteoFriend®

This probiotic modulates gut microbiota and the immune system to reduce systemic inflammation and promote bone formation. It enhances calcium absorption and may reduce osteoclast activity through Treg-mediated pathways.¹

Why it's in Women's ProMulti

Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus reuteri are two key probiotic strains that offer significant benefits for women’s health, particularly in supporting vaginal and gut microbiota balance.

L. reuteri is a probiotic strain that offers various health benefits, particularly in gut and vaginal health. It produces lactic acid and organic acids that acidify the environment and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. L. reuteri stimulates the immune system by increasing the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA)² and enhancing the activity of macrophages and T cells, helping to protect against infections. L. reuteri strengthens the intestinal barrier by promoting the expression of tight junction proteins. This improvement in gut barrier function prevents the translocation of harmful bacteria and toxins into the bloodstream. L. reuteri has anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel diseases and other inflammatory conditions.

Why it's in pH Hero®

Lactobacillus reuteri is known for its ability to produce reuterin, an antimicrobial compound that can inhibit the growth of a broad spectrum of harmful microorganisms, including Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, fungi and protozoa.³ In the vaginal microbiome, this helps in preventing infections like bacterial vaginosis and candidiasis. L. reuteri also plays a role in maintaining a healthy immune system by influencing the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which can help reduce vaginal and urinary tract inflammation. This strain is also linked to strengthening the epithelial barrier, reducing the likelihood of infections by harmful bacteria.⁴ By promoting the secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. IL-10) and inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. TNF-α), L. reuteri helps maintain a balanced immune response. This modulation is critical in preventing chronic inflammation, which can lead to various urogenital and gastrointestinal issues. L. reuteri can form biofilms on epithelial surfaces, providing a protective barrier against pathogen adherence and promoting the stability of beneficial bacterial communities.⁵