Lactobacillus Salivarius is a type of bacteria commonly found in our saliva. It is responsible for metabolizing carbohydrates, producing organic acids such as lactic acid and acetic acid.
These important substances help inhibit the growth and spread of pathogens and other microorganisms that can cause infection and disease. Lactobacillus salivarius also produces hydrogen peroxide and other antimicrobial compounds.
In the human body, Lactobacillus salivarius is found in the colon, small intestine, vagina, and mouth. Lactobacillus salivarius is often taken in supplement form, but it can also be found in foods such as yogurt, tomatoes, bananas, chicory root, artichokes, garlic, and asparagus.
Lactobacillus salivarius is known for its ability to grow and spread quickly. This helps it crowd out harmful bacteria.
The Function of Lactobacillus salivarius
Improves Oral Hygiene
As the dominant bacteria in the mouth, Lactobacillus salivarius is important for maintaining oral hygiene. It also plays a role in preventing intestinal diseases and supporting the immune system.
Its most important feature is the ability to produce a bacteriocin (an antimicrobial substance) that has been shown to protect against infection by invasive pathogens in food. Studies in mice have shown that Lactobacillus salivarius can protect against Listeria monocytogenes, a bacterium known to cause gum disease.
Another important finding is that Lactobacillus salivarius can help improve the number of bacteria in the mouth and reduce the formation of gingival plaque. It has also been shown to enhance resistance to caries risk factors. Oral administration of Lactobacillus salivarius can help improve bad breath and reduce the risk of bleeding gums caused by periodontitis. Even smokers benefit from it.
Relieves Intestinal Disorders
Lactobacillus salivarius is also found in the small intestine, where it helps prevent gastrointestinal issues like irritable bowel syndrome. This is important for overall health, as up to 70% of our immune system is located in the gut.
Research shows that Lactobacillus salivarius produces its own antibiotics to target invading pathogens. The lactic acid produced by Lactobacillus salivarius also helps keep "bad" bacteria in check while supporting the health of "good" bacteria. It also aids in the digestion of proteins.
Some studies in mice have shown that Lactobacillus salivarius helps inhibit Helicobacter pylori infection and reduces the inflammatory response caused by this bacteria. Notably, this effect was specific to the type of bacterial strain, with 9 of the 28 Lactobacillus salivarius strains effectively inhibiting the growth of H. pylori.
Might Even Lower Cholesterol
Another interesting benefit of L. salivarius is that it may be able to lower cholesterol.
A study of obese adolescents showed that L. salivarius was able to increase the proportion of beneficial bacteria. After taking L. salivarius supplements and fructooligosaccharides (FOS) for six weeks, the subjects experienced significant reductions in total cholesterol, including reductions in “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. They also had higher levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL).
They also had significantly fewer inflammatory markers in their blood, suggesting that their overall risk of disease was reduced.
Contact Now
