Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactobacillus acidophilus has been investigated for its potential to reduce certain side effects of chemotherapy, particularly gastrointestinal complications like diarrhea and mucositis. Chemotherapy often disrupts the gut microbiome, leading to digestive issues. L. acidophilus, a well-known probiotic, may help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria, enhance gut barrier function, and modulate immune responses. Several small randomized controlled trials and pilot studies have shown that probiotic supplementation (often including L. acidophilus among other strains) can decrease the incidence and severity of chemotherapy-induced diarrhea, especially in patients with colorectal and pelvic cancers. However, the majority of these studies use multi-strain probiotic combinations, making it difficult to isolate the effects of L. acidophilus alone. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses suggest a modest benefit, but evidence quality is generally low to moderate due to small sample sizes, heterogeneity in study designs, and variable probiotic formulations. Safety is generally good in immunocompetent patients, but caution is advised in severely immunocompromised individuals.

In summary, there is some scientific evidence—though not robust or high-quality—to support the use of L. acidophilus-containing probiotics to reduce gastrointestinal side effects of chemotherapy. More large-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and clarify optimal dosing and strains.

More about lactobacillus acidophilus
More about Chemotherapy (reducing side effects)

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