Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus rhamnosus
For the health condition: Diverticulitis

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Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a probiotic strain that has been studied for its potential benefits in various gastrointestinal conditions, including diverticular disease. The rationale for using L. rhamnosus in diverticulitis is based on its ability to modulate the gut microbiota, enhance the integrity of the intestinal barrier, and reduce inflammation. However, the direct scientific evidence supporting its use specifically for acute diverticulitis is limited and mixed. Most clinical studies and meta-analyses focus on probiotics in general for diverticular disease, not exclusively on L. rhamnosus or acute diverticulitis. Some studies show a reduction in symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and recurrence rates when probiotics are used as adjunct therapy, but these often include multiple probiotic strains and are not always placebo-controlled or well-powered.

Guidelines from gastroenterological societies, such as the American Gastroenterological Association, do not currently recommend probiotics as standard treatment for diverticulitis due to insufficient evidence. Nevertheless, some smaller randomized controlled trials and observational studies suggest modest benefits in symptom management and prevention of recurrent episodes with probiotics, including L. rhamnosus-containing formulations. The overall quality and quantity of evidence is currently low, which is reflected in the rating. More rigorous, large-scale, and strain-specific research is needed before L. rhamnosus can be widely recommended for diverticulitis management.

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