Health Guide

Lactobacillus reuteri

Meet *Lactobacillus reuteri* (often called *L. reuteri*): a powerhouse probiotic bacterium that naturally calls your gut home. Unlike the germs that make you sick, this 'good guy' bacteria acts like a personal maintenance crew for your digestive system. It helps balance your microbiome, supports your immune system, and even aids in digestion. While it's naturally found in breastmilk and some fermented foods, modern diets often leave us short on this friendly microbe. Supplementing with *L. reuteri* is like calling in reinforcements to help your gut thrive.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Colic Relief Effectiveness

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Crying Time Reduction (%)

Treatment →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Soothes Tummy Troubles: Helps reduce colic in infants and relieves indigestion in adults.
Boosts Immunity: Acts as a barrier against harmful pathogens in your gut.
Supports Oral Health: Unique among probiotics, it fights the bacteria that cause cavities and bad breath.

Deep Dive

L. reuteri is unique because it produces a substance called reuterin, which inhibits the growth of bad bacteria while leaving beneficial ones alone. For parents, it is clinically proven to significantly reduce crying time in colicky infants. For adults, it helps manage symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and improves nutrient absorption. Recent studies also suggest it may help lower 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels and even support skin health by reducing inflammation.

Natural Food Sources

While L. reuteri is difficult to find in high quantities in standard grocery store produce, it is present in fermented foods. Note: The most potent natural source is actually human breast milk, which helps colonize an infant's gut.

Food	Amount	% DV
Fermented Carrots	Moderate	N/A
Sourdough Bread	Low	N/A
Tempeh	Low	N/A
Miso	Low	N/A
Aged Cheese	Low	N/A

Supplementation

Because dietary sources are limited and specific strains are required for health benefits, supplementation is the most effective way to utilize L. reuteri. Look for specific strains like L. reuteri DSM 17938 or ATCC PTA 6475. It is available in chewable tablets, drops, and capsules.

Top Food Sources

Fermented Carrots

Contains live cultures if naturally fermented

Sourdough Bread

Baking kills most bacteria, but raw sourdough starter contains it

Tempeh

Fermented soy product

Aged Cheese

Gouda, Parmesan

Miso

Fermented soybean paste

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is clinically shown to reduce crying time in breastfed infants with colic. Always consult your pediatrician first.

For digestive issues, you may feel relief within a few days. For cholesterol or oral health benefits, it may take several weeks.

Yes, high heat will kill the bacteria. Add it to food or drinks only after they have cooled down.

To maintain the benefits, you should take it daily. Once you stop, the bacteria will eventually leave your system.

Safety & Side Effects

Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for most people. Mild side effects can include gas or bloating during the first few days as your gut adjusts. Use caution if you are severely immunocompromised or have a central venous catheter, as there is a rare risk of infection. Consult a pediatrician before giving to infants.

Scientific References

[1]Savino F, et al. 'Lactobacillus reuteri (American Type Culture Collection Strain 55730) reduces crying time in colicky infants.' *Pediatrics*. 2007.
[2]Cocconcelli PS, et al. 'Safety and efficacy of Lactobacillus reuteri in humans.' *Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology*. 2005.
[3]Jones ML, et al. 'Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 lowers LDL cholesterol.' *Atherosclerosis*. 2012.