Types of Lactobacillus

Friendly bacteria live in the human body to protect against the invasion of harmful bacteria and pathogens. There are many types of Lactobacillus strains that benefit the body in different ways. Due to the common Western diet and the increased intake of antibiotics, many people have an imbalance of good and bacteria. Taking probiotics or eating foods that contain Lactobacillus can help restore the balance.

Lactobacillus Acidophilus (L. Acidophilus)

• L. acidophilus resides in the mucosal lining of the small intestine, vagina and cervix. Because L. acidophilus produces lactase, it is beneficial to people who are lactose intolerant due to a lack of lactase production. Other benefits include the production of vitamin K, and it may also help guard the body against harmful bacteria such as E. coli, staphylococcus, salmonella, candida and helicobacter. It can help treat and manage diarrhea, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, yeast infections, urinary tract infections and respiratory infections. L. acidophilus can be found in most yogurts, kefir, cultured vegetables and powdered or capsule probiotics.

Lactobacillus Plantarum (L. Plantarum)

• L. plantarum produces lactic acid and is often used as a safe food preservative. There are several strains of L. plantarum that offer benefits--such as lining and defending the colon, relief of diarrhea associated with antibiotics, reduction of bloating associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome, improved mucosal status and a reduction of mucosal inflammation. It can be found in fermented vegetables and probiotic drinks, capsules or powders.

Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (L. Rhamnosus)

• L. rhamnosus resides in the mucous membrane of the intestines and fights off harmful bacteria and reduces the growth and effects of carcinogenic compounds. It may help improve the immune system, reduce respiratory infections, treat diarrhea and treat intestinal problems associated with antibiotics. It could also help relieve ailments such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Crohn's Disease.

Lactobacillus Casei (L. Casei)

• L. casei is found in human mouths and intestines. It can withstand bile and gastric acid; therefore, it can survive as it travels through the intestinal tract. The benefits of L. casei may include treatment for diarrhea as well as relief from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease. L. casei can be found in many yogurts, fermented drinks and cheeses and naturally fermented green olives and pickles. Foods preserved with vinegar destroy L. casei and cannot be considered good sources.

Lactobacillus Salivarius (L. Salivarius)

• L. salivarius resides in the small intestine and human mouths. Along with protecting the body against harmful bacteria, it may also reduce bad breath and canker sores, and decrease the frequency of bleeding gums and tooth decay. In addition, L. salivarius produces vitamin B, lactic acid and enzymes.

Lactobacillus bulgaricus (L. Bulgaricus)

• L. bulgaricus lives throughout the intestinal tract. It produces a protein called interferon that fights invading viruses by preventing replication. Other benefits include relief from lactose intolerance symptoms and diarrhea. It can be found in most yogurts.