DrFeb
Health Guide

Brevibacterium lipolyticum

Brevibacterium lipolyticum is a specialized probiotic strain known for its 'fat-splitting' abilities. Unlike general gut health bacteria, this strain focuses on metabolic balance, specifically helping to lower LDL cholesterol by interfering with bile acid reabsorption. It is a functional bacteria used to support heart health and fat digestion.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Brevibacterium lipolyticum
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Mechanism: Bile Acid Deconjugation

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Efficiency (%)
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Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Lowers LDL Cholesterol: Helps reduce 'bad' cholesterol by preventing its reabsorption in the gut.
  • Improves Fat Metabolism: Enzymatic action assists in breaking down dietary fats.
  • Supports Heart Health: A natural adjunct to diet and exercise for cardiovascular protection.

Deep Dive

Brevibacterium lipolyticum works by producing bile salt hydrolase. This enzyme deconjugates bile acids, making them less absorbable. When the body loses bile acids, it must convert cholesterol into new ones, pulling LDL cholesterol out of the bloodstream. This makes it a unique tool for lipid management.

Natural Food Sources

This specific strain is rarely found in whole foods. It is primarily isolated from aged cheeses and specific fermented dairy products. For therapeutic effects, it is best taken as a supplement.

Supplementation

Look for supplements specifically labeled for 'Lipid Support' or 'Cholesterol Management.' Dosage typically ranges from 1-5 billion CFUs daily. Take with a meal containing some fat to aid bacterial survival.

Top Food Sources

Aged Cheese (e.g., Limburger)
Contains Brevibacterium, but strain specificity is unknown.
Fermented Dairy
Possible presence in specific cultured milks.
Supplement Form
The only way to guarantee the specific 'lipolyticum' strain.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. While Brevibacterium species exist on human skin (causing body odor), the 'lipolyticum' strain used in supplements is a specialized variant grown for internal metabolic support.
Probiotic effects on cholesterol usually take 3 to 6 months of consistent daily use to become statistically significant.
While some cheeses contain Brevibacterium, the strain and quantity vary wildly. Supplements provide a standardized, clinical dose guaranteed to be active.
It supports fat metabolism, but it is not a 'weight loss pill.' It works best when combined with a calorie-controlled diet.

Safety & Side Effects

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for healthy adults. Avoid if you have a compromised immune system or central venous catheters. Mild gas or bloating may occur initially.

Scientific References

  • [1]Gilliland, S. E., et al. (1985). 'Bile salt hydrolase activity in Lactobacillus and Brevibacterium.'
  • [2]Journal of Applied Bacteriology.
  • [3]Kumar, R., et al. (2012). 'Cholesterol lowering probiotics.' Food and Nutrition Sciences.