What Leads to a Deficiency in Lactobacillus?

Lack of Lactobacillus: What is the cause? A lack of Lactobacillus can lead to a microbiota imbalance, which may result in conditions like bacterial vaginitis or aerobic vaginitis, and increase the risk of sexually-transmitted infections and premature birth.

Low levels of Lactobacillus can be caused by a number of factors, such as Western diet patterns, chronic and acute stress, or certain medications. A high level of Lactobacillus may be caused by an overgrowth due to digestive disorders or certain dietary patterns.

Lactobacilli are essential for maintaining vaginal hygiene by inhibiting potentially pathogenic bacteria growth and creating an environment that is acidic, which encourages their growth.

The absence of Lactobacillus or its overgrowth can have serious implications for women’s overall health, especially in relation to the vaginal microbiota [ 1 and 2].

How to increase the lactobacillus level in the body

You can increase the Lactobacillus level in your body by using the following methods:

Prebiotics and Probiotics Lactobacillus strains in probiotic supplements can support Lactobacillus. Prebiotic supplements such as the dietary fibers in foods like bananas, onions, and garlic can also promote the growth of Lactobacillus.

Dietary changes: Eating foods high in Lactobacillus such as yogurts, sauerkrauts, kefirs, sourdoughs, and kimchis can increase Lactobacillus in the body. Foods that have higher Lactobacillus levels include whey protein and pea proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, fiber and resistant starch.

Healthy lifestyle: By avoiding factors that decrease Lactobacillus, such as saturated and trans fats and high salt intake, you can maintain healthy Lactobacillus level[ 3, 4].

What are the dangers of low lactobacillus?

Low levels of Lactobacillus are associated with several risks. This is especially true in relation to the vaginal microbiota. Low Lactobacillus can lead to several risks, particularly in the context of vaginal microbiota.

Increased Risk of Infections Low levels of Lactobacillus, which is beneficial to the body, can increase the risk of infection. This includes genitourinary and bacterial infections.

Imbalance of Vaginal Microbiota A diminished Lactobacillus dominates the vaginal microbiota, leading to conditions like bacterial vaginosis. This can cause symptoms such as itching, odor and increased discharge.

Impact on Pregnancy Lower Lactobacillus concentrations have been linked to lower conception rates and higher rates of early pregnancies, underlining the importance of Lactobacillus for maintaining a healthy microbiota in the vaginal area.

Digestive symptoms: While an overgrowth of Lactobacillus may cause digestive symptoms such as gas and bloating and abdominal discomfort; low levels of Lactobacillus could also lead to digestive problems, including malabsorption of nutrients and symptoms of nutritional deficiencies.

These risks highlight the importance of maintaining healthy Lactobacillus levels, especially in the vaginal microbial community, for the overall health and specific outcomes.

What are the benefits to lactobacillus bacteria?

Lactobacillus is a beneficial bacteria that offers a variety of health benefits.

Supporting Gut health: Lactobacillus helps to maintain a healthy microbiota in the gut, which aids digestion and nutrient assimilation.

Boosting Immune System: This product supports a healthy immune system and helps to protect against pathogens, infections, and harmful pathogens.

Preventing pathogenic overgrowth: Lactobacillus acts as a barrier to the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestine, thus promoting a healthy and balanced microbiome.

Digestive mechanisms: It converts dietary fibre into beneficial metabolites and contributes to digestive health.

Health Benefits from Different Strains Some strains of Lactobacillus are associated with the reduction of eczema and the symptoms of IBS, the decrease of upper respiratory infections, as well as the maintenance of a healthy microbiome in the vaginal area.

Maintaining healthy levels of Lactobacillus in the body through diet and supplements can provide these benefits.