Best probiotic strains
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Best Probiotic Strains: A Comprehensive Review
Introduction to Probiotic Strains
Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. The selection of the best probiotic strains is crucial for maximizing their health benefits. This article synthesizes recent research to identify the most effective probiotic strains based on their specific health benefits and safety profiles.
Single-Strain vs. Multi-Strain Probiotics
Efficacy Comparison
The debate between the efficacy of single-strain and multi-strain probiotics is ongoing. A systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) from 1973 to 2019 found that single strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG were significantly more protective against necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) compared to multi-strain mixtures containing different strains of Bifidobacterium lactis . However, for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori, a mixture of L. rhamnosus GG and B. lactis Bb12 was more effective than L. rhamnosus GG alone .
Meta-Analysis Findings
An updated meta-analysis focusing on preterm very low birth weight (PVLBW) infants revealed that multi-strain probiotics were more effective in reducing the incidence of NEC and mortality compared to single-strain probiotics . Specifically, multi-strain probiotics showed a significant reduction in NEC incidence and mortality, whereas single strains like Lactobacillus species had only a borderline effect on NEC and no significant impact on mortality .
Prominent Probiotic Strains
Lactobacillus Strains
Lactobacillus plantarum
Research on Lactobacillus plantarum strains isolated from cheeses demonstrated high resistance to lysozyme, good adaptation to simulated gastric juice, and moderate to low bile tolerance. Strains Lp790, Lp813, and Lp998 showed the best probiotic potential and are promising candidates for probiotic fermented foods .
Lacticaseibacillus casei
Lacticaseibacillus casei FBL6, along with closely related species L. chiayiensis and L. zeae, exhibited tolerance to acid and bile salts, inhibitory action against pathogens, and antioxidant capacity. These strains also contained unique genes related to probiotic characteristics, making them strong candidates for probiotic use .
Weissella and Periweissella Strains
A comprehensive analysis of Weissella and Periweissella type strains identified Periweissella beninensis as the best candidate based on its probiotic features and safety profile. This strain showed high survival rates in simulated gastrointestinal conditions and good adhesion to Caco-2 cells, making it a promising probiotic .
Yeast Strains
Kluyveromyces marxianus
Kluyveromyces marxianus strains isolated from Fiore Sardo cheese demonstrated high survival rates under simulated gastric conditions and good adhesion to Caco-2 cells. These strains also showed significant probiotic potential and could be used in probiotic fermented milk products .
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
S. cerevisiae BB06, isolated from agro-food sources, exhibited strong antagonistic activity, high auto-aggregation ability, and excellent antioxidant properties. This strain also showed high survival rates in gastrointestinal conditions, making it a valuable probiotic candidate .
Conclusion
The selection of the best probiotic strains should be based on specific health benefits and safety profiles rather than the number of strains in a product. Single strains like L. rhamnosus GG and L. plantarum have shown significant health benefits in specific conditions, while multi-strain probiotics have proven more effective in reducing NEC and mortality in PVLBW infants. Strains such as P. beninensis, L. casei, and K. marxianus also show promising probiotic potential. Further research and clinical trials are essential to determine the most effective combinations and applications of these probiotic strains.
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