Meet L. reuteri DSM 17938
Among the most clinically researched probiotics in the world.
An introduction to L. reuteri
L. reuteri is a species of bacteria that is grounded in evolution. The bacteria live in the gastrointestinal tract (GI) of animals, with each species carrying its own strains that are passed from generation to generation. Over millions of years, humans have co-evolved with our own strains of L. reuteri.
As a result of this evolutionary process, L. reuteri contributes to human health. When we are born, we are almost sterile. However, we first encounter L. reuteri during birth and during breastfeeding. As a key member of the gut microbiota, L. reuteri plays an important role in helping babies digest breast milk and solid food.
Friends for life
Throughout life, bacteria tighten the lining of the gut to prevent leakage and improve immune response. Furthermore, they release molecules that promote a healthy and diverse microbiota and prevent the growth of pathogens. The gut microbiota needs to be supported, especially as we age since the diversity of bacteria decreases when we get older.
While some people today still have L. reuteri in their microbiota, most people lack these species due to our modern lifestyle. The depletion of L. reuteri from our gastrointestinal tract has been attributed to low-fiber diet, increased sanitation and antibiotic use.
Luckily, L. reuteri can be reintroduced through probiotics, but they must be replenished frequently since the bacteria are constantly washed out of the GI tract.
One of the most clinically researched
BioGaia’s probiotic supplements with Limosilactobacillus reuteri are among the most clinically researched probiotics in the world.
As of December 2022, the efficacy and safety of BioGaia’s different strains of L. reuteri have been documented in 258 clinical studies on approximately 21,000 people of all ages.
You can learn more about probiotics in the videos and articles in our Learning Lab.