Lactobacillus casei is a probiotic found in the human body, dairy products, and fermented foods. It aids digestion, nutrient absorption, and the immune system. It is available in supplements and can help with irritable bowel syndrome.
Lactobacillus casei, or L. casei, is a type of healthy bacteria classified as a probiotic. Like many probiotics, it grows naturally in the human body, but it is also found in various dairy products and some fermented foods and beverages. L. casei does not require oxygen, but it does need certain nutrients and minerals to grow. It is promoted both for its benefits to the human digestive system and the immune system. Although it is most commonly ingested through the consumption of yogurt, it is also available in supplements that contain large numbers of microbial colonies.
Probiotics, the classification of microorganisms to which lactobacillus casei belongs, are generally strains of bacteria. They are found in milk, yogurt, miso, tempeh, certain soy products, and some beverages. Most are hailed as having positive effects on the human body, particularly the digestive system. Some probiotics, like L. casei, also aid in the absorption of nutrients. However, only limited studies confirm these claims within the scientific community.
Like many probiotics, Lactobacillus casei is anaerobic, meaning it does not require oxygen. Under a microscope, individual organisms appear rod-shaped. Nutrients and minerals such as riboflavin, niacin, folic acid, calcium pantothenate are required for growth of L. casei to occur. There are several different strains of lactobacillus casei, which vary depending on growing conditions.
This probiotic grows naturally in the human mouth and intestines, but is also found in various food products. Many brands of yogurt contain lactobacillus casei, as do naturally fermented milk, fermented cheeses, and pickles. Pickles in vinegar, however, create an acidic environment that kills it. Some yogurt brands actually list this and other probiotic strains on their packaging and in their marketing materials, though many brands simply note the existence of unnamed active cultures.
In addition to naturally occurring lactobacillus casei in food and in the human body, this probiotic can also be purchased in supplement form. Capsules and chewable tablets are available at supermarkets, health food stores, pharmacies, and drugstores. Each capsule likely contains billions of microbes, although the exact numbers will differ by brand.
Due to its resistance to bile and gastric acid, Lactobacillus casei can easily pass through the gastrointestinal tract. Their residence in the digestive tract tends to be quite temporary. Many types of bacteria remain in human and animal digestive systems indefinitely, although L. casei generally only lasts up to ten days. Certain strains have been found to help control diarrhea. As many strains promote an anti-inflammatory effect, lactobacillus casei is considered beneficial in helping to alleviate irritable bowel syndrome and irritable bowel disorder.
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