Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus bulgaricus is a probiotic bacterium commonly found in yogurt and fermented dairy products. There is a growing body of scientific research suggesting that probiotics, including L. bulgaricus, may help alleviate some chemotherapy-induced side effects, particularly gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and mucositis. These side effects occur because chemotherapy often disrupts the balance of gut microbiota, leading to inflammation and gastrointestinal distress.

Several small clinical trials and animal studies have shown that probiotic supplementation can support gut barrier function, modulate immune responses, and reduce the incidence or severity of diarrhea in patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, most studies investigate combinations of various probiotic strains, making it difficult to isolate the effects of L. bulgaricus specifically. Some studies have reported that yogurts containing L. bulgaricus, when consumed during chemotherapy, are associated with improved gastrointestinal symptoms and better overall tolerance to cancer treatment.

Despite these promising findings, the evidence is still considered preliminary. The number of rigorous, large-scale clinical trials focusing specifically on L. bulgaricus is limited, and more research is needed to establish clear recommendations and dosing guidelines. Nonetheless, current evidence supports cautious optimism about the role of L. bulgaricus as part of probiotic formulations to help reduce certain chemotherapy side effects, primarily gastrointestinal ones.

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