Lactobacillus reuteri
Synopsis of lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus reuteri is a naturally occurring lactic acid bacterium found in the human gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, skin, and breast milk. It is one of the most extensively studied probiotic species due to its wide-ranging health benefits across the digestive, immune, skin, oral, and reproductive systems. Known for its robust colonization and strain-specific effects, L. reuteri is especially valued for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory actions.
A key feature of L. reuteri is its ability to produce reuterin, a potent antimicrobial compound that inhibits the growth of various pathogens—including Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Candida albicans, and Helicobacter pylori—without harming beneficial bacteria. Different strains offer specific benefits:
- L. reuteri DSM 17938 is widely used in infants and children to treat colic, diarrhea, and digestive disorders.
- L. reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 has shown anti-inflammatory effects that may help with bone density, skin aging, and systemic inflammation.
- L. reuteri RC-14 is used for vaginal and urinary tract health in women.
Clinical research supports its use for reducing colic in infants, improving oral health (reducing gingivitis and plaque), enhancing skin elasticity, lowering systemic inflammation, and maintaining gastrointestinal balance. It is commonly found in supplements, oral care products, and functional foods.
Historical Use:
While Lactobacillus reuteri was only formally identified in 1962 (from the gut of a healthy human by Dr. Gerhard Reuter), the physiological benefits it provides have been indirectly harnessed for generations through fermented foods and breast milk. Its natural presence in human milk hints at a co-evolutionary relationship with humans—offering newborns protection from infections and aiding in early immune development.
In ancient and traditional societies, fermented foods such as sour milk, kefir, fermented grains, and fermented meats often contained L. reuteri, even though the specific microbe was unknown. These foods were given to promote strength, digestion, and resilience, especially in infants and the sick. Breastfeeding itself was considered sacred in many cultures—not just for nourishment but for its protective health value, likely due in part to bacteria like L. reuteri.
Although it was not isolated until the 20th century, the types of benefits now associated with L. reuteri—gut comfort, immune defense, and microbial protection—were long observed in traditional practices involving fermented foods and maternal care. Today, it stands out as one of the most promising therapeutic probiotics, with applications ranging from pediatric care to women’s health and aging support, echoing the broad protective roles it has quietly played throughout human history.
Lactobacillus reuteri is used for these health conditions
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Acne (Scientific)
Antibiotics (alternatives to) (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Bladder Infection (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Canker Sores (Scientific)
Cardiovascular Disease (Scientific)
Colds (general) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Enteritis (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Halitosis (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)
Mood Swings (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
lactobacillus reuteri is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Female Reproductive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Gums (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
