6 Lactobacillus Fermentum Health Benefits

Lactobacillus fermentum is a gram-positive live microorganism that has health benefits for cholesterol, inflammation, lactose intolerance, anxiety, liver damage and infant health. It comes from the Lactobacillaceae family and is phylum bacillota. Lactobacillus fermentum can be found in various fermented foods and some dairy products like cheese.

1. Lowers Cholesterol

High cholesterol refers to elevated levels of cholesterol, a fatty substance, in the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. A 2011 study authored by DD Pan, found that L. fermentum SM-7, reduced cholesterol by 66.8%. The probiotic assimilated 61.5% and co-precipitated and absorbed 38.5% of cholesterol. In vivo tests on hyperlipidemic mice showed significant reductions in serum total cholesterol, total triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol levels, along with an improved atherogenic index. 

2. Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation in the upper small intestine refers to a localized immune response characterized by redness, swelling, and cellular changes in the tissue lining this part of the digestive tract. A 2008 study authored by CL Smith found L. fermentum BR11, showed potential in reducing inflammation in the upper small intestine in mice. The probiotic exhibited promise in mitigating jejunal inflammation.

Jejunal inflammation refers to the presence of inflammation, typically characterized by tissue redness, swelling, and immune cell activation, within the jejunum, which is the middle portion of the small intestine.

3. Improves Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest lactose, a natural sugar found in milk and dairy products, resulting in gastrointestinal symptoms after consumption which effects 68% of the world's population according to NIH.

A 2011 study authored by S El-Ghaish, found that Lactobacillus fermentum IFO3956, exhibited high proteinase activity when grown on milk-based media. It showed a strong ability to break down proteins, like cutting them into smaller pieces, when it was grown in an environment made from milk.

4. Mitigates Anxiety

Ampicillin can lead to anxiety-like behavior by disrupting the balance of gut microbiota and affecting brain receptors, which in turn influences the regulation of emotions and behavior. Ampicillin is an antibiotic medication used to treat bacterial infections by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and interfering with their cell wall formation.

A 2015 study authored by T Wang, found that Lactobacillus fermentum NS9, restored the balance of gut microbiota, reduced inflammation in the colon, elevated certain brain receptors, and mitigated anxiety-like behavior and memory impairment caused by ampicillin treatment. 

5. Mitigates Liver Damage

Liver damage refers to harmful changes in the structure and function of the liver, often caused by factors like diseases, toxins, or infections, which can lead to impaired liver health and proper functioning.

A 2015 study authored by P Jin, found that Lactobacillus fermentum strain ZYL0401, mitigated the harmful effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced hepatic TNF-α expression and liver injury. It helped to reduce the damage caused by a substance called lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the liver by lowering the production of a harmful substance called TNF-α, which can cause inflammation and injury.

6. Improves Infant Health

Gastrointestinal infections in infants are infections that affect the digestive system, causing symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Upper respiratory tract infections in infants involve infections of the nose, throat, and lungs, often causing symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and congestion.

A 2012 study authored by J Maldonado, found that giving infants a follow-on formula containing Lactobacillus fermentum CECT5716 significantly reduced the incidence of gastrointestinal infections by 46%, upper respiratory tract infections by 27%, and the total number of infections by 30% in infants.

What Foods Contain Lactobacillus Fermentum?

You can find this Lactobacillus fermentum in a range of fermented foods, including yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and certain cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano. Whey cultures commonly used in the production of cultured dairy products also contain Lactobacillus fermentum. These foods provide a natural source of this probiotic strain, which can contribute to gut health and the 6 benefits previously listed.

How Does Lactobacillus Fermentum And Lactobacillus Amylovorus Function?

A 2013 study authored by JM Omar found the function of Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus amylovorus led to changes in gut microflora that were associated with reduced total body fat, demonstrating their potential in altering energy metabolism and body composition.

The study involved overweight participants consuming yogurt enriched with these two probiotic strains, resulting in a significant decrease in body fat mass, particularly with L. amylovorus consumption.