Meet L. reuteri DSM 17938
Among the most clinically researched probiotics in the world.
Over 250 clinical studies
BioGaia’s probiotic supplements with L. reuteri are among the most extensively studied in the world. Over 250 clinical studies involving around 22,000 people have documented the efficacy and safety of BioGaia’s different strains of L. reuteri.
All BioGaia products contain L. retueri.
An introduction to Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly Lactobacillus reuteri)
L. reuteri is a unique species of bacteria that is grounded in evolution. It naturally inhabits the gastrointestinal tract (GI) and is passed down from generation to generation. Over millions of years, humans have co-evolved with our own specific strains of L. reuteri.
As a result of this evolutionary process, L. reuteri contributes to human health. When we are born, our gut microbiota is almost sterile. However, we first encounter L. reuteri during birth and breastfeeding. As a member of the gut microbiota, L. reuteri plays an important role in helping babies digest breast milk and solid food.
Reintroducing L. reuteri through probiotics
Throughout life, bacteria tighten the lining of the gut to prevent leakage and improve immune response. Furthermore, they release molecules that promote a healthy and diverse microbiota and prevent the growth of pathogens.
The gut microbiota needs to be supported, especially as we age since the diversity of bacteria decreases when we get older.
While some people today still have L. reuteri in their microbiota, most people lack these species due to our modern lifestyle. The vast depletion of L. reuteri from our gastrointestinal tract has been attributed to low-fiber diet, increased sanitation and antibiotic use.
Luckily, L. reuteri can be reintroduced through probiotics, but they must be consumed frequently since the bacteria are constantly washed out of the GI tract.
One of the most clinically researched probiotics
BioGaia’s probiotic supplements with L reuteri are among the most clinically researched probiotics in the world, with over 600 granted patents:
Tested on a strain level in 174 clinical trials with 17,000 individuals.
Tested on a strain level in 67 clinical trials with 2,900 individuals.
Tested on a strain level in 9 clinical trials.
The unique properties of Limosilactobacillus reuteri (Lactobacillus reuteri)*
- Co-evolved with humans, naturally present in the body
- Survives the acidic environment of the stomach
- Proven to temporarily colonize the entire gastrointestinal tract
- Promotes a balanced microbiota
- Safe for all, from newborns, pregnancy and the elderly
- One of the world’s most studied probiotic
L. reuteri’s proven ability to thrive where it counts
For probiotics to work, they must first travel through the stomach's harsh conditions and make it to the gut alive.
L. reuteri DSM 17938 has been studied throughout the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract via biopsies. All BioGaia probiotic supplements are proven to survive the stomach and reach the gut ready to thrive.
In fact, Limosilactobacillus reuteri (Lactobacillus reuteri) is one of the world’s few probiotic that is clinically proven to temporarily colonize key parts of the digestive system, including the stomach, duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), and ileum (the last part of the small intestine).
This means the bacteria are able to live and multiply directly where they can have the most beneficial effects.
Why daily intake of L. reuteri matters
Whilst L. reuteri has co-evolved with humans since the dawn of time, through the impact of modern living (low fiber diets, stress, antibiotics usage, and environmental factors) it is naturally present in the body in very low numbers.
Also, daily intake of probiotics is necessary because these beneficial bacteria are naturally expelled from the body within a week or two. Regular consumption ensures that you maintain an adequate level of L. reuteri in your gut.
Learn more about probiotics and gut health on our learning hub Probiotics 101.
**Did you know? Limosilactobacillus reuteri = Lactobacillus reuteri). The classification of BioGaia's probiotic, formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri, has been updated to Limosilactobacillus reuteri to reflect advancements in scientific understanding and taxonomy. All BioGaia probiotic supplements contain Lactobacillus reuteri, it’s just a name change.