What causes lack of Lactobacillus? The lack of Lactobacillus, a beneficial bacteria, can lead to an imbalance in the vaginal microbiota, potentially causing conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV) or aerobic vaginitis (AV), and increasing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and premature delivery.
Several factors can cause low levels of Lactobacillus, including Western dietary patterns, acute and chronic stress, and certain medications. On the other hand, high levels of Lactobacillus can result from overgrowth secondary to digestive dysfunction or specific dietary patterns.
Lactobacilli play a crucial role in maintaining vaginal health by inhibiting the growth of potentially pathogenic bacteria and creating an acidic environment conducive to their own growth.
Therefore, the absence or overgrowth of Lactobacillus can have significant implications for women’s health, particularly in the context of vaginal microbiota balance[1, 2].
How to increase lactobacillus levels in the body
To increase Lactobacillus levels in the body, you can consider the following approaches:
Probiotic and Prebiotic Supplements: Probiotic supplements containing Lactobacillus strains can help support Lactobacillus growth. Prebiotic supplements, such as dietary fibers found in foods like onions, garlic, and bananas, can also encourage the growth of Lactobacillus and other beneficial bacteria.
Dietary Changes: Consuming foods rich in Lactobacillus, such as yogurt, sauerkraut, kefir, sourdough bread, and kimchi, can help increase Lactobacillus levels in the body. Additionally, foods that are correlated with elevated Lactobacillus concentrations include whey and pea protein, unsaturated fats, fiber, and resistant starch.
Healthy Lifestyle: Avoiding factors that can decrease Lactobacillus levels, such as high saturated and trans fats, high salt, and low fiber intake, can help maintain healthy Lactobacillus levels[3, 4].
What are the risks of having low lactobacillus levels?
Insufficient levels of Lactobacillus can lead to several risks, particularly in the context of the vaginal microbiota. Some of the risks associated with low Lactobacillus levels include:
Elevated Risk of Infections: Insufficient levels of beneficial Lactobacillus can result in an increased risk of infections, including genitourinary infections and bacterial vaginosis.
Imbalance in Vaginal Microbiota: Diminished Lactobacillus dominance in the vaginal microbiota has been linked to conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, which can lead to symptoms like itching, odor, and increased discharge.
Potential Impact on Pregnancy: Reduced Lactobacillus levels have been associated with decreased conception rates and high rates of early pregnancy loss, highlighting the importance of Lactobacillus in maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiota for reproductive health.
Digestive Symptoms: While overgrowth of Lactobacillus can cause digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort, low levels can also lead to digestive issues, including nutrient malabsorption and symptoms of nutrient deficiencies.
These risks underscore the importance of maintaining healthy levels of Lactobacillus, particularly in the vaginal microbiota, for overall well-being and specific health outcomes.
What are the benefits of lactobacillus?
Lactobacillus, a beneficial bacteria, offers various health benefits, including:
Supporting Gut Health: Lactobacillus contributes to a healthy gut microbiota, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Boosting the Immune System: It supports a well-functioning immune system, helping to defend against harmful pathogens and infections.
Preventing Pathogenic Overgrowth: Lactobacillus creates a barrier against the establishment of bad bacteria in the gut, thereby promoting a balanced and healthy microbiome.
Digestive Mechanisms: It transforms dietary fiber into beneficial metabolites, contributing to overall digestive health.
Specific Health Benefits of Different Strains: Certain strains of Lactobacillus have been associated with reducing the risk of eczema, relieving symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), decreasing the occurrence of mild upper respiratory tract infections, and maintaining a healthy vaginal microbiome.
By maintaining healthy levels of Lactobacillus through diet and supplementation, individuals can potentially experience these health benefits and support a thriving microbiome.
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