What are lactobacilli and why are they essential for the body?
Lactobacilli are a group of probiotic bacteria naturally present in the intestinal, vaginal and oral microbiota. These beneficial micro-organisms play a key role in maintaining optimal digestive balance, boosting the immune system and protecting against infection. They are found in fermented foods such as yoghurt, sauerkraut and kefir, as well as in probiotic supplements.
An imbalance in the microbiota, often caused by a low-fiber diet, stress, antibiotics or recurrent infections, can lead to digestive disorders, lowered immune defenses and recurrent infections. That's where lactobacilli come in: they help restore and maintain healthy intestinal and vaginal flora, promoting lasting general well-being.
What are the benefits of lactobacilli for digestion, immunity and women's health?
Lactobacilli are first and foremost recognized for their protective, balancing role within the intestinal microbiota. They facilitate digestion by promoting better assimilation of nutrients and producing enzymes that help break down food. They also regulate transit, helping to prevent constipation and diarrhoea. In cases of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or bloating, certain strains such as Lactobacillus plantarum or Lactobacillus rhamnosus are particularly effective in reducing inflammation and soothing abdominal pain.
On the immune front, lactobacilli boost natural defenses by stimulating antibody production and promoting immune cell activity. A balanced microbiota limits the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, reducing the risk of respiratory, urinary and digestive infections. For children and adults alike, lactobacillus supplementation can improve resistance to seasonal infections and allergies.
For intimate health, lactobacilli play a fundamental role in maintaining an acidic vaginal pH, thus preventing the development of mycoses, bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections. Certain strains, such as Lactobacillus crispatus and Lactobacillus reuteri, are particularly beneficial in preventing imbalances and protecting intimate flora, particularly after antibiotic therapy or during menopause.
In addition to their effects on digestion and immunity, lactobacilli also help detoxify the body by neutralizing certain toxins and promoting the elimination of heavy metals. They also contribute to the production of essential vitamins such as vitamin B12, biotin and vitamin K, all of which are essential for a healthy metabolism.
How should lactobacilli be consumed to reap their full benefits?
Lactobacilli can be consumed through the diet, with a focus on probiotic-rich foods such as fermented yoghurt, kefir, raw sauerkraut, miso and kombucha. However, the concentration of live bacteria in these foods varies and may be insufficient to restore a weakened microbiota.
Probiotic supplements therefore represent an effective alternative, enabling targeted intake according to need. They are available in capsule, powder or ampoule form, with formulas tailored to digestion, immunity or intimate flora.
The recommended dose generally varies between 5 and 50 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per day, depending on the desired objective. For optimum efficacy, we recommend taking them on an empty stomach or before a meal, to maximize their survival as they pass through the stomach.
A course of 1 to 3 months is often recommended after antibiotic therapy, a period of intense stress or to boost natural defenses before winter.
Do lactobacilli have any side effects or contraindications?
Lactobacilli are generally well tolerated, with no major side effects when taken in recommended doses. However, some sensitive individuals may experience temporary bloating or digestive discomfort, especially at the start of supplementation. These effects generally disappear after a few days, as the body adapts to the new bacterial flora.
However, their use is not recommended for immunocompromised people (patients undergoing chemotherapy, HIV or organ transplants), as excessive proliferation of probiotic bacteria could, in rare cases, lead to opportunistic infections.
It's also important to choose a probiotic tailored to specific needs. For example, a strain designed for digestive comfort will not necessarily be effective for intimate flora. It is therefore essential to check the composition and presence of scientifically validated strains before taking any product.
How to choose quality lactobacilli?
Not all probiotics are created equal, and several criteria must be taken into account to guarantee their efficacy:
