3 Lactobacillus Brevis Health Benefits: Cognition, Oral and Digestive

Lactobacillus brevis, a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria, belongs to the lactic acid bacteria family. While its precise origin remains elusive, it was first identified by microbiologist August Gärtner, with historical records dating back to 1894.

This versatile bacterium can be found in a wide array of environments, including various fermented foods such as keifr grains, sourdough bread, sauerkraut, pickles, and other products that undergo the fermentation process. L. brevis is also a natural resident of the human body, inhabiting the vaginal microbiome and feces. Its prevalence is particularly notable in these regions, where it contributes to the maintenance of microbial balance and functionality.

In this L. brevis guide, we will delve into a comprehensive analysis of the latest human clinical trials focused on different variations of this bacterial strain. By exploring these studies, we aim to uncover the potential benefits, applications, and advancements associated with Lactobacillus brevis for human health and well-being.

Here are 3 health benefits of Lactobacillus Brevis I have evaluated.

1. Improves Cognitive Function In Mice

Cognitive function refers to the mental processes and abilities that enable us to perceive, think, reason, remember, and make decisions, allowing us to process and understand information in our environment.

In a 2019 Japanese study, researchers examined the effects of feeding mice a heat-killed strain of Lactobacillus brevis (SBC8803) on memory and adult neurogenesis. The study aimed to assess the impact of this strain on important cognitive functions for the survival of mice. The mice were placed on a diet containing heat-killed SBC8803 for a duration of 4 weeks, and their memory performance was evaluated using social recognition and contextual fear conditioning tasks.

For me these findings revealed notable improvements in memory performance and enhanced adult neurogenesis in the mice fed heat-killed SBC8803. The researchers specifically focused on the hippocampus, a region crucial for memory and learning, and measured the number of newly generated neurons through immunohistochemistry. The results indicated that the treatment with heat-killed SBC8803 increased the survival of newborn neurons, although it did not affect their proliferation.

This study highlights the potential cognitive benefits of Lactobacillus brevis strain SBC8803 in mice, shedding light on the influence of this bacterium on memory and adult neurogenesis. By providing these valuable insights, the research expands our understanding of the effects of Lactobacillus brevis on cognitive functions and its potential implications for human health.

2. Improves Oral Mucositis

Oral mucositis refers to the inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the mouth, often caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments for cancer.

The findings of a study revealed significant reductions in inflammation following treatment with L. brevis. This was evident from the decreased levels of nitric oxide, prostaglandin E2, matrix metalloproteinase, and gamma-interferon observed in saliva samples. Overall, the study demonstrated an oral anti-inflammatory effect associated with L. brevis.

The 2007 placebo study conducted by Italian researchers from the University of Rome, the anti-inflammatory effects of Lactobacillus brevis (CD2) probiotic bacteria were investigated in patients with chronic periodontitis. The study included a group of 21 patients receiving treatment with L. brevis and a control group of 8 individuals.

The Italian researchers proposed that these effects might be attributed to the presence of arginine deiminase in L. brevis, which hinders the production of nitric oxide. These insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying periodontitis provide valuable information and suggest the potential of L. brevis as a treatment option for this condition. I would say that the study contributes to expanding our understanding of the role of Lactobacillus brevis in managing periodontal inflammation and highlights its potential therapeutic applications.

3. Increases Defecation Frequency

Defecation is the process by which solid waste material, known as feces or stool, is expelled from the body through the rectum and anus.

In a 2013 study, Japanese researchers administered Lactobacillus brevis subsp. coagulans strain at 1 billion CFU to 32 Japanese women with constipation tendencies. The study reported significant increases in defecation days per week and the number of bifidobacteria in feces compared to the placebo group. These findings further support the potential anti-dysbiosis effect of Lactobacillus brevis in alleviating constipation-related symptoms.

This study highlights the benefits of Lactobacillus brevis strains in managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals with IBS and constipation. However, more research is needed to better understand the underlying mechanisms and validate these findings.