Evidence supporting the use of: Lactobacillus acidophilus
For the health condition: Leaky Gut Syndrome

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Synopsis

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

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a probiotic bacterium commonly found in the human gut and in fermented foods. Its use for "Leaky Gut Syndrome" (also termed increased intestinal permeability) is supported by some preliminary scientific evidence, though robust clinical validation is lacking. Animal studies and a handful of small human trials suggest that L. acidophilus may help strengthen tight junctions between intestinal cells, reduce inflammation, and modulate the gut microbiota, all of which could theoretically benefit individuals with increased intestinal permeability. For example, some studies have demonstrated that supplementation with L. acidophilus can decrease markers of gut permeability and inflammation in animal models and in people with certain gut conditions.

However, "Leaky Gut Syndrome" is not universally recognized as a medical diagnosis, and large, high-quality clinical trials specifically targeting this syndrome in humans are limited. Most human research examines L. acidophilus in the context of related conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, or general gut health, rather than "leaky gut" per se. Thus, while there is a biologically plausible mechanism and some supportive data, the evidence remains preliminary, and the use of L. acidophilus for this indication is not yet strongly validated by science. More rigorous studies are needed to confirm its efficacy and determine optimal strains and dosages.

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