Lactobacillus plantarum is a probiotic bacteria and by virtue of its name, “probiotic” these are the good bacteria that work to improve our health while protecting us from the bad bacteria. After all, probiotics are good for many reasons including gut health, metabolism, heart health, and mental health. However, a probiotic that is currently gaining more notice is Lactobacillus plantarum benefits.
If you want to boost your immunity and your gut health, Lactobacillus plantarum might be what you need. If this is something that interests you, continue reading to learn more about this rising star in the world of probiotics.
Why is Lactobacillus Plantarum so Popular?
It is important to note that Lactobacillus plantarum is a very hardy version of bacteria. In fact, its strength is what makes it so beneficial. First, it withstands differing degrees of temperature. At the same time, it has qualities that allow it to line the gut to form a remarkable barrier against bad bacteria.
However, Lactobacillus plantarum is one of many Lactobacillus species of bacteria. Characteristics of this type of bacteria include being gram-positive. This is in addition to their qualities of non-motile, non-sporulating, and rod-shaped lactic acid bacteria (LAB). However, Lactobacillus plantarum is unique in that it is one of the most abundant of the LAB genomes. It is also better able to survive conditions that kill other bacteria.
These live beneficial bacteria are naturally present in the intestines. However, many prefer to take dietary supplements or eat foods high in Lactobacillus plantarum. Of course, that has to do with the myriad of Lactobacillus plantarum benefits that include help with vitamin production, blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Lactobacillus Plantarum Benefits
Lactobacillus Plantarum Helps Increase Nutrients
B Vitamins Natural Source
Lactobacillus Plantarum LZ227 derives from cow’s milk. What’s significant is that one study shows that it is a natural source of B group vitamins. This is encouraging because most B vitamin supplements are made in a lab. Of course, the idea is that taking vitamins from a natural source is more effective than “man-made”.
Calcium Absorption Increases
Furthermore, another study suggests that there is higher calcium retention when drinking fermented milk that contains Lactobacillus plantarum.
Iron Absorption Increases
If you tend to be low in iron, this might benefit you. This study with women suggests that when Lactobacillus plantarum is taken, it may increase the rate of iron absorption.
Other Lactobacillus Plantarum Potential Benefits
As shown below, there are many uses and studies for Lactobacillus plantarum benefits. However, this is not an exhaustive list, so continue to do your research and consult with your medical professional before taking Lactobacillus plantarum.
Blood Sugar and Lactobacillus Plantarum
Incredibly, there are currently several studies that show improvements to blood sugar levels when using Lactobacillus plantarum. You will reference to find some of those studies directly below.
Another study shows that when soymilk containing Lactobacillus plantarum was given to patients with type 2 diabetes, the results show a lowering of DNA damage.
In one study with postmenopausal women, results show a lowering of glucose levels.
In an additional study with mice, the results show decreases in levels of blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, and leptin.
The use of Lactobacillus plantarum in this study with mice shows a notable reduction in blood glucose levels.
Cholesterol Level Improvements
A probiotic that contains Lactobacillus plantarum shows in one study to reduce cholesterol levels significantly. Another study with rats with diabetes shows that Lactobacillus plantarum reduces the triglyceride and LDL-cholesterol rates while it increases the LDL-cholesterol.
Cancer and Lactobacillus Plantarum
In a study with mice with intestinal cancer, Lactobacillus plantarum shows to enhance tumor immunity responses and delays the formation of the tumors.
Another study shows the results of long-term treatment with Lactobacillus plantarum in which breast cancer was prevented.
An additional study done with rats with colon cancers shows results of inhibiting the development of cancer cells.
Diarrhea Symptoms Decrease
Lactobacillus plantarum is also beneficial for the treatment of diarrhea. In fact, research shows promise for improvements to diarrhea that is due to various conditions. One study is about “traveler’s diarrhea” and another study is about the prevention of symptoms in children. Both studies suggest improvements in symptoms when taking Lactobacillus plantarum.
Eczema Symptom Improvements
The most common form of eczema is atopic dermatitis in children. However, in one study, the results suggest improvements after a 12-week treatment with Lactobacillus plantarum supplements.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) Improvements
One study suggests that taking a Lactobacillus plantarum supplement helps by decreasing pain and bloating in the intestines.
Liver Health Improvements
In a study done with rats with jaundice, when Lactobacillus plantarum is administered orally, results show improvements to the hepatic barrier function of the liver.
Skin Health Increases
Lactobacillus plantarum shows in one study to be effective in improving skin hydration. It also exhibits anti-photoaging qualities. Additionally, the results include increases in skin water content, skin elasticity, and a decrease in wrinkle depth when taking supplements.
Virus Immunity Bolsters
In a study with mice who were infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), results show a delay of onset of skin lesions and a reduction in brain virus count.
There is an additional study in which mice were given Lactobacillus plantarum derived from fermented cabbage. These amazing results include protecting the body from influenza, a notable reduction in body weight, and lowering of lung viruses.
Weight Management or Obesity
In a Russian study with adults that have obesity and hypertension, the subjects were fed a cheese containing Lactobacillus plantarum. The results show a lowering of blood pressure and BMI.
In another study with mice with obesity, the results show the lowering of body weight and body fat.
Where to Find Lactobacillus Plantarum
The most common foods that contain Lactobacillus plantarum benefits are fermented foods that include olives in brine, kimchi, pickles, and sauerkraut.
You will also find Lactobacillus plantarum supplements in capsule form, normally in 500mg doses. As with any supplement, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for dosing.
Lactobacillus Plantarum Safety
There are no reported adverse effects noted in any study, even when it is given in larger doses. However, it is a probiotic and if you are experiencing organ failure, immunity issues, or gut issues, avoid taking this or other probiotics.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Products discussed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.