LACTIC ACID BACTERIA BENEFITS RESEARCH REPORT

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are widely recognized for their beneficial effects on human health,particularly in the areas of gastrointestinal wellness, immune function, and potential roles inpreventing certain diseases. Here is an in-depth research report on the health benefits of LAB,
highlighting recent findings and applications:
1. Overview of Lactic Acid Bacteria :Definition and General Properties: LAB are a group of Gram-positive bacteria that primarily
ferment carbohydrates into lactic acid. Common genera include Lactobacillus, Lactococcus,Streptococcus, and Leuconostoc.
Probiotic Characteristics: These bacteria are considered probiotics due to their ability to survive
in the gut and confer health benefits to the host.
2. Gastrointestinal Health :Enhancing Gut Flora: LAB can balance the gut microbiota, promoting the growth of beneficial
bacteria while inhibiting harmful pathogens.
Improving Digestive Function: They help in digesting lactose and other complex carbohydrates,
which can alleviate symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Reducing Gastrointestinal Disorders: Several studies have shown that LAB can mitigatesymptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), reduce the risk of diarrhea, and help in thetreatment of colitis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21831747/
Conclusion from the above research report :Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) have become popular as probiotics, evolving from traditional dairy
products to a significant market in health supplements and functional foods. Extensive researchis being conducted to identify new probiotic strains and understand their health benefits andmechanisms. The FAO/WHO has recently established criteria for selecting probiotic strains,which are evaluated through in vitro and in vivo tests, along with mandatory safety studies due
to rare instances of bacteremia. This review highlights the health benefits and safety of LAB
probiotics, the selection criteria, their mode of action, and their influence on gut microbiota.
3. Immune System Support :Modulation of Immune Response: LAB can enhance immune function by increasing the activityof macrophages and natural killer cells, and stimulating the production of antibodies.
Prevention of Infections:: Regular consumption of LAB has been linked to reduced frequenciesof respiratory and urinary tract infections. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11709854/

Conclusion from the above research report :Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are naturally present in the intestines of most animals and havesignificant beneficial effects on the immune system. They are commonly found in foods andused as probiotics to enhance biological functions in the host. LAB activate the immune
response through complex interactions within the intestinal ecosystem. Understanding the roleof LAB in gut health and the mucosal immune system is crucial for selecting probiotic strains
with immunostimulatory properties. Although LAB have shown potential in protecting against
diseases like infections and cancer, further research is needed to optimize their use as oralvaccine vectors and therapeutic agents. This review will delve into the immunostimulatory
capabilities of LAB and the criteria for selecting effective probiotic strains.
4. Potential Anticarcinogenic Effects :Inhibiting Tumor Growth: Some strains of LAB have been shown to possess anticarcinogenic
properties, possibly through the production of anti-mutagenic compounds that reduce the risk oftumor development.
Enhancing Detoxification: LAB may aid in detoxifying carcinogens present in the diet, thus
potentially lowering cancer risk. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8548880/
Conclusion from the above research report :Lactic acid bacteria (LAB), Gram-positive bacteria that colonize the gastrointestinal tract, offer
numerous probiotic benefits and have diverse applications across industries, agriculture, foodsafety, and medicine. Traditionally, research has focused on their roles in enhancing digestion,balancing gut microflora, and reducing toxic substances. Recently, interest in LAB's potential
anti-cancer properties has increased. This paper summarizes the bio-active substances
produced by LAB that exhibit anti-cancer effects and examines the safety of LAB in clinicalcancer treatment. It also explores future research directions and the potential of LAB as atherapeutic option for cancer.
5. Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health :- Improving Metabolic Outcomes: LAB supplementation has been associated with reducedcholesterol levels, improved blood glucose control, and a decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.
- Blood Pressure Regulation: Certain LAB strains can produce bioactive peptides that help lower
blood pressure. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9530890/
Conclusion from the above research report :Fermented foods have been part of human diets for over 10,000 years and are gaining renewed
popularity for their potential benefits on cardiometabolic health. However, the evidence
supporting these benefits remains unclear, partly due to misclassification of fermented foods
and reliance on subjective dietary assessments in studies. Future research should focus onimproving dietary assessment methods for fermented foods, understanding the composition ofvarious fermented products, and exploring their role in healthy, sustainable diets. This will help
clarify the relationships between fermented foods and cardiometabolic health.
6. Allergies and Skin Health :- Reducing Allergy Symptoms: LAB can modulate immune responses related to allergies, suchas atopic dermatitis in children.
- Skin Health: Probiotic LAB may improve skin conditions by enhancing the skin's barrier
function and reducing inflammatory responses.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4439985/
Conclusion from the above research report :The effectiveness and safety of long-term probiotic supplementation vary significantly based on
the species and strains of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Confirming these factors requires rigorousin vitro studies, animal testing, and randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials.
LAB show variable effects in preventing and treating allergic diseases due to differences in theirmechanisms of action. Factors such as the number and viability of microorganisms in the gut,
their retention time, and existing gut microflora composition influence the immune response
induced by probiotics.
Probiotics, whether taken as pharmaceutical preparations or through fermented foods, areeffective in preventing allergies and, to a lesser extent, in alleviating existing allergy symptoms.
Their principal benefits include proven effectiveness, safety (even for children and infants), andlack of side effects. As allergies become increasingly common, further research is essential toexplore the health-promoting effects of probiotic strains and their potential in preventing andtreating various diseases, including allergies.
Conclusion:
Lactic acid bacteria offer a range of health benefits that extend far beyond traditional uses infood fermentation. Their role in promoting gastrointestinal health, enhancing immune function,and potentially reducing the risk of certain diseases underscores their importance in both dietary
and therapeutic applications. Ongoing research continues to uncover the vast potential of thesemicroorganisms in improving human health.
*The information displayed herein has not been evaluated and/or approved in any formby the Japan Ministry of Health, FDA and/or similar body in Japan or elsewhere.