Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Lactobacillus helveticus is a probiotic bacterium primarily used in the dairy industry, but it has also been studied for its potential health benefits, especially in the context of supporting gut health during or after antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut microbiota, often leading to side effects such as antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD). Probiotics, including L. helveticus, are used to help restore this balance and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.

Several studies have investigated the efficacy of L. helveticus as a probiotic. While much of the research focuses on multi-strain formulations (where L. helveticus is combined with other beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus or Bifidobacterium species), there is evidence suggesting that L. helveticus can survive gastrointestinal transit and positively influence the gut microbiota. Some clinical trials and animal studies have shown that L. helveticus supplementation can reduce the duration and incidence of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and may promote the recolonization of beneficial bacteria after antibiotic use.

However, the majority of high-quality clinical data uses multi-strain probiotics rather than L. helveticus alone, so its specific efficacy as a single-strain intervention is less well-established. Therefore, while there is scientific rationale and moderate evidence for its use in supporting gut health during antibiotic therapy, the evidence is not as robust as for some other probiotic strains. The evidence rating thus stands at 3 out of 5.

More about lactobacillus helveticus
More about Antibiotics (side effects of)

Other ingredients used for Antibiotics (side effects of)

Other health conditions supported by lactobacillus helveticus

Products containing lactobacillus helveticus