Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus reuteri is a probiotic bacterium that has been investigated for its potential role in supporting gut health, including in inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s Disease. The use of L. reuteri for Crohn’s Disease is primarily justified by scientific interest, although the strength of evidence remains modest. Several laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that L. reuteri can help modulate the immune response, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and alter the gut microbiota composition—all factors relevant to Crohn’s Disease pathophysiology. Some small clinical trials and pilot studies have explored the use of probiotics, including L. reuteri, in patients with Crohn’s Disease. However, the overall results have been inconclusive, with most high-quality reviews and meta-analyses concluding that evidence for the efficacy of probiotics in maintaining remission or reducing symptoms in Crohn’s Disease is weak or insufficient. In contrast, there is somewhat stronger evidence for the use of certain probiotics in ulcerative colitis and pouchitis.

Current guidelines from major gastroenterological societies do not recommend probiotics, including L. reuteri, as standard therapy for Crohn’s Disease due to the lack of robust clinical data. Nevertheless, research is ongoing, and L. reuteri continues to be studied for its immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. In summary, there is a scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence, but well-conducted, large-scale clinical trials are needed before routine use can be supported.

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