Lactobacillus gasseri
Synopsis of lactobacillus gasseri
Lactobacillus gasseri is a species of lactic acid bacteria naturally found in the human gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and vaginal microbiome. It is known for its ability to produce lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and other antimicrobial compounds that inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, helping to maintain a balanced internal environment. Among probiotic strains, L. gasseri stands out for its applications in metabolic health, weight regulation, and women’s urogenital wellness.
Modern clinical research suggests that specific strains of L. gasseri may help reduce abdominal fat, waist circumference, and body weight, likely by influencing lipid metabolism and gut microbiota composition. Some studies also show its potential in regulating blood glucose, improving insulin sensitivity, and lowering cholesterol levels. In women’s health, L. gasseri contributes to vaginal pH balance and defends against infections like bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections.
It is increasingly included in probiotic supplements aimed at weight management, digestive support, and vaginal health. Its acid tolerance and ability to adhere to epithelial cells make it effective at colonizing the intestines and mucosal tissues.
Historical Use:
Although Lactobacillus gasseri was only isolated and identified in the 1980s, the benefits associated with it have been unknowingly utilized through traditional fermented foods and dietary practices for centuries. Like other lactic acid bacteria, L. gasseri is found in fermented dairy products such as yogurt and kefir, as well as in fermented vegetables. While early societies were unaware of its microbial identity, they understood that consuming these foods enhanced digestion, protected against illness, and promoted vitality.
In Japanese culture, which has a long history of fermenting both dairy and plant-based foods, traditional preparations like miso, natto, and pickled vegetables often harbored beneficial microbes, potentially including L. gasseri. These foods were not only dietary staples but were also used therapeutically during illness or periods of weakness. Fermented milk beverages, like those that led to the creation of modern functional drinks such as Yakult, were rooted in this heritage.
The specific role of L. gasseri began to gain scientific attention in the late 20th century, particularly in Japan, where researchers isolated strains and began exploring their health benefits. Today, it represents one of the best-studied probiotics for weight and metabolic regulation, bringing full circle the ancestral reliance on fermented foods and the precise tools of modern probiotic science.
Lactobacillus gasseri is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Allergies (food) (Scientific)
Allergies (respiratory) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Bladder Infection (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Hypertension (Scientific)
Indigestion (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Rhinitis (Scientific)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Scientific)
Sinus Infection (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Urinary Tract Infections (Scientific)
Vaginitis (Scientific)
lactobacillus gasseri is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Stomach (Scientific)
Vagina (Scientific)
