Review Article | | Peer-Reviewed

The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood

Received: 28 February 2024    Accepted: 18 March 2024    Published: 11 April 2024
Views:       Downloads:
Abstract

Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri has been shown to be useful for a number of gastrointestinal disorders. Its ability to secrete antimicrobial compounds, prevent pathogenic microorganisms from colonizing the host, and alter the composition of the commensal microbiota in the host are all major contributors to its therapeutic advantages. Not only that, but L. reuteri treatment strengthens the host's defenses against infection and pro-inflammatory cytokine production while enhancing the growth and functionality of regulatory T cells. Numerous pediatric illnesses, particularly those pertaining to the intestinal health of infants, have been found to be well managed by L. reuteri, according to systematic reviews and meta-analyses. According to current research on L. reuteri, it may be useful in the management and avoidance of a number of common clinical disorders, including functional constipation, infantile colic, regurgitation, and diarrhea. Probiotic treatment for pediatric illnesses has had favorable benefits on bowel regularity in individuals with chronic constipation and has been found to successfully reduce screaming and/or fussing time in newborns with colic. Additionally, it quickens the emptying of the stomach and lessens distension. Several research have even come to the conclusion that this probiotic strain reduces the frequency of regurgitation. The potential of this probiotic strain for application in the treatment of several gastrointestinal disorders is evident from all of these findings. Therefore, this study aims to encapsulate and condense the advantages of this probiotic strain in clinical settings, with a particular emphasis on how it supports babies' and toddlers' immune systems and gut health.

Published in International Journal of Gastroenterology (Volume 8, Issue 1)
DOI 10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14
Page(s) 14-21
Creative Commons

This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.

Copyright

Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Lactobacillus reuteri, Probiotics, Gut Health, Immunomodulation, Infants, Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders, Functional Constipation, Infantile Colic

1. Introduction
The human microbiota is a complex community of commensal bacteria that is larger than the human body overall in terms of both number and genetic and metabolic diversity. Human gut microbiota contains almost 90% of all commensals, which has a significant effect on the development and maintenance of the host's physiological systems, including metabolism, immune response, and brain function .
Since the gut microbiota coevolves with the host from birth along with its metabolic and neurological programs, the growth of this microbial community is crucial for maintaining health into old age. The symbiosis between the infant's gut microbiota and itself is formed over the first few years of life and is established from birth. The gut microbiota affects immune system development and prevents pathogen colonization in addition to metabolism and nutrition absorption . Environmental variables including nutrition and lifestyle have a complicated interaction with the host that shapes the development of the gut microbiota . Therefore, the dynamics of this community inside the host and any potential links it may have with disease risks can be illuminated by studying the gut microbiota from infancy to old age.
Remarkably, probiotic treatment has been demonstrated to reduce a wide range of health issues and their symptoms, suggesting a major role and increased potential for probiotic applications in the treatment of disease, in part through gut microbial composition balance . Probiotics that produce lactic acid, such as various Lactobacillus species, have perhaps been the subject of the most research, both in infants and adults. Numerous gastrointestinal (GI) tract problems may be prevented and treated using lactobacilli, according to preclinical and animal research findings. It has been demonstrated that the Lactobacillus reuteri species has a number of advantageous impacts on host health . Since its first isolation in 1962, L. reuteri has been characterized as a heterofermentative species that grows in low-oxygen environments and colonizes animal and human gastrointestinal systems. Its tendency to colonize the GI tract may be the source of its potent probiotic properties. L. reuteri is present in the skin, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract, and breast milk of humans, among other body parts . It's interesting to note that a lot of clinical research has been done to look at Lactobacillus reuteri's function in healthy people's intestines. These investigations have concentrated on the functions of the bacteria in controlling gut microbiota and mucosal homeostasis, in modulating the intestinal host immune system, and in lowering intestinal inflammation in pathological situations. This variety of actions demonstrates the dual functions Lactobacillus reuteri performs in improving gut health and human immunity .
2. Intestinal Microbial Colonization in Primitive Life
The gradual process of newborn gut colonization is influenced by dietary and environmental exposures, as well as maternal and genetic factors. These factors may have a greater impact than others. According to recent findings from clinical and experimental investigations, microorganisms found in the intrauterine environment may start colonizing the fetus's gut at any time . Despite being highly intriguing, these results require additional validation in sizable clinical trials with rigorous methodology to rule out.
The gut microbiota of infants and children progressively changes to match that of adults, and by the time they are two or three years old, it is believed to have stabilized and become more adult-like. One of the main factors influencing the maturation of the gut microbiota is the introduction of solid meals, and in particular, stopping nursing . Nonetheless, it is important to highlight that the mature gut microbiota varies significantly depending on the region . It is quite likely that eating behaviors have a greater role in explaining this occurrence than genetic variations do. Detrimental exposures, and the use of antibiotics in particular, can induce significant disruptions in gut microecology. Epidemiological studies indicating a link between early-life antibiotic exposure and chronic illnesses such as obesity, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease highlight the possible therapeutic importance of these transient disruptions .
3. Role of L. reuteri in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorder (FGID)
Approximately one in two newborns have at least one Functional gastrointestinal disease (FGID) or associated signs and symptoms between the time of birth and six months of age. Although prevalence rates of functional gastrointestinal disorders in babies and toddlers vary greatly, they are frequent globally and include baby colic, regurgitation, functional diarrhea, and functional constipation . For example, the prevalence rate of infant colic in the community has been reported to be between 5% and 25%, the prevalence rate of functional constipation in children 0-18 years old has been found to be between 0.5% and 32.3%, and the overall prevalence rate of any FGID in neonates and toddlers varies between 27.1% and 38.0% .
Because L. reuteri can withstand a wide range of pH environments, employ multiple mechanisms to effectively inhibit pathogenic microorganisms, and secrete antimicrobial intermediaries in addition to normally colonizing the GI tract, it has been shown to exhibit a number of beneficial effects, particularly on the host's gut health (Figure 1). The different probiotic effects of Lactobacillus reuteri on gut health are included in Figure 1 [5, 13].
Figure 1. L. reuteri helps in the management of FGIDs .
4. Evidence Around the Function of L. reuteri in Managing of Pediatric Disorders
There are significant therapeutic and preventative opportunities due to the possible correlation between functional gastrointestinal disorders in children and disruptions in the gut microbiota. It is commonly known that L. reuteri inhibits calcium-dependent potassium channels in enteric neurons, which in turn affects gut motility, contractility, and pain perception .

4.1. L. reuteri in Controlling Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain Disorders

Numerous clinical observations suggest that dysbiosis is an IBS feature. First, in a considerable portion of IBS patients, symptoms are frequently preceded by gastroenteritis or an antibiotic course . Moreover, research has shown that the nonabsorbable antibiotic rifaximin is beneficial in the treatment of adult patients with diarrhea-predominant IBS-D , although it was ineffective in the treatment of children who experienced chronic stomach pain . Indeed, as was mentioned in and above, alterations in the gut microbiota have been seen in both adults and children, supporting the therapeutic alteration of the gut microbiota in this patient group.
In the field, Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 has been the most extensively researched probiotic. Five randomized clinical trials including children with FAP or IBS have examined its impact. In the initial investigation, 60 children were given either Lactobacillus reuteri or a placebo by Romana et al. . While all groups had a comparable substantial reduction in pain frequency, only the probiotic group showed a significant reduction in pain severity. Nevertheless, the interpretation of the results was restricted because all of these data were only presented visually and not numerically .
In 80 children with FAP, Eftekhari et al. could not find any significant differences in pain severity between the probiotic and placebo groups, despite a comparable large decrease among the groups as compared to the baseline. Four weeks of follow-up were included in both of these studies, along with an intervention. Weizman et al. evaluated the effects of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in 101 children with FAP when compared to a placebo. At the end of the 4-week intervention, there was a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of pain in the probiotic group as compared to the placebo arm. After the 4-week follow-up, only the latter group difference remained significant . Over the course of sixteen weeks, Jadresin et al. examined Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in 55 children with FAP or IBS vs a placebo. During the trial period, children in the probiotic group experienced more days without discomfort than those in the placebo group. The former group also experienced less acute pain in the second and fourth months. Nonetheless, there was no difference in the groups' absences from activities or school . In the most current trial, 54 children with FAP were compared to a placebo and Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 by Maragkoudaki et al. . There was no discernible difference in pain severity or frequency between the probiotic and placebo groups, yet both dramatically decreased from the baseline. Furthermore, tardiness to school and use of analgesics were comparable between the groups .

4.2. L. reuteri in the Management of Pediatric Functional Constipation

Coccorullo et al. report that during an 8-week research, 44 neonates suffering from constipation were given either a placebo or an oil solution containing Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17,938. Compared to the placebo group, a considerably greater proportion of patients in the probiotic group passed at least five stools per week at weeks two, four, and eight. The consistency of the stools among the groups did not differ . Guerra et al. examined the efficacy of goat yogurt with Bifidobacterium longum against yogurt alone in a 10-week crossover experiment including 59 children who had constipation. After analyzing all of the crossover data, significant differences were seen between the groups for frequency of defecation, discomfort during feces, and abdominal pain. However, the investigators did not say whether the probiotic goat yogurt or the goat yogurt on its own was the difference maker. Furthermore, the data were only presented graphically . Tabbers et al. compared the effects of a non-fermented milk-based dairy product with fermented milk containing Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010 in 159 children who were constipated. The response rates for both groups were similar. Furthermore, there were no differences between the groups in terms of the frequency of stools, discomfort during bowel movements, stomach pain, or bisacodyl consumption. However, throughout the three-week study, flatulence was much less common among those taking the probiotic supplement .

4.3. L. reuteri in the Management of Infantile Colic

Dysbiosis, or altered gut microbiota, has been related to the etiology of colic, which is why probiotic bacteria have been suggested as a possible therapy for colic tears. Most studies on interventions have focused on one specific probiotic, Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. Meanwhile, a small number of studies have examined the role of other Lactobacillus species or combinations of other probiotics and synbiotics.
Seven randomized controlled trials including a total of 471 participants were included in a recent comprehensive research and meta-analysis with a low risk of bias . In five included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) including 349 infants, the effects of L. reuteri DSM 17938 at a daily dosage of 108 colony-forming units (CFU) given for 21 or 28 days were evaluated . L. reuteri was associated with treatment success (relative risk (RR) 1.67, 95% CI 1.10–2.81, number needed to treat (NNT) 5, 95% CI 4–8) and decreased crying times at the end of the intervention (mean difference (MD) -49 min, 95% CI 66–33), despite the fact that the effect was primarily seen in exclusively breastfed infants.
According to an individual participant data meta-analysis (IPDMA) that pooled raw data from four individual trials involving 345 infants to create sufficient power for sub-group analysis, L. reuteri DSM 17,938 is helpful in treating breastfed in-fants with colic, but not formula-fed infants . Compared to the placebo group, the probiotic group spent less time on average crying and/or fussing, and they had almost double the chance of experiencing therapeutic success. Furthermore, the intervention's advantages were minimal for babies fed formula but significant for those fed breastmilk (NNT 2.6, 95% CI 2.0–3.6). All of the infants included in the meta-analysis were entirely or mostly breastfed, with the exception of the participants in the largest Australian research, who were both breastfed and formula-fed. Probiotic treatments may be more effective in breastfed neonates due to the distinct gut microbiota makeup of breastfed infants compared to formula-fed infants. Nonetheless, the enhanced effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri in breastfed infants might be explained by the direct effects of bacteria or oligosaccharides in breast milk. Following the publication of these two meta-analyses, two further RCTs of L. reuteri DSM 17938 to treat infantile colic in breastfed kids were reported . A study with 60 colic infants revealed that L. reuteri significantly reduced daily crying time throughout a 30-day intervention period, despite a limited trial with just 20 colic children reporting no significant difference in daily crying time between the probiotic and placebo group .
Figure 2. L. reuteri in the Management of Infantile Colic .
There has only been one small RCT that examined Lactob cillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)'s efficacy in treating infant colic over the course of a 28-day intervention . The experiment comprised thirty colicky babies who were breastfed or given formula; there was no difference in the daily crying time between the babies who received placebo or probiotic treatment. It is noteworthy, however, that parental reports, rather than validated prospectively recorded Baby Day Diaries, were used to support the study's conclusions about the efficacy of LGG This finding emphasizes how important it is to evaluate newborn crying using reliable, dependable methods.

4.4. Role of L. reuteri in Immunomodulation

It has been observed that L. reuteri modifies the immunological system. L. reuteri strains have the ability to increase the formation and activity of regulatory T cells while decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines . Numerous investigations have demonstrated that L. reuteri may stimulate anti-inflammatory Treg cells, which adds to the plant's beneficial effects in a variety of disease- and non-disease-related situations. L. reuteri's ability to induce Tregs is mostly strain-dependent. Nevertheless, the stimulation of Treg cells is not necessarily necessary for L. reuteri to have an anti-inflammatory impact. Treg-deficient mice's Th1/Th2 response reduction mediated by L. reuteri is a nice example. Numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines can be inhibited by certain L. reuteri strains .
These studies have focused on the roles that bacteria play in regulating mucosal homeostasis and gut microbiota, in altering the host immune system in the intestine, and in reducing intestinal inflammation in pathological conditions. This range of behaviors illustrates the complementary roles that Lactobacillus reuteri plays in enhancing human immunity and gut health .
Figure 3. L. reuteri mediated immunomodulation.
Moreover, L. reuteri strains may control intestinal damage and TNF-α produced in humans by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), hence regulating the immune system in the intestines. L. reuteri's anti-inflammatory effect has been shown to reduce intestinal mucosal levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin-8 (IL-8), IL-1α, interferon-α, and TNF-α) in newborn rats with LPS-induced inflammation of the small intestine and ileum. In an experimental model of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), L. reuteri DSM 17938 has also been shown to block the toll-like receptor-4 signaling pathway, hence restricting the release of cytokines .
5. Reviews and Recommendations on the Use of L. reuteri
Lactobacillus reuteri The most extensively researched probiotics for the treatment of a wide range of pediatric gut health conditions are strains of Lactobacillus reuteri . There were no unfavorable outcomes linked to the use of L. reuteri DSM 17938 in a research that examined its safety and effectiveness in treating acute diarrhea in children between the ages of 6 and 36 months . Papagaroufalis et al. conducted a randomized, double-blind controlled safety experiment to assess the synthesis of d-lactic acid in healthy newborns given a formula containing lactobacillus reuteri. The findings demonstrated that consuming a formula containing L. reuteri was safe and did not raise d-lactic acid levels after two weeks .
For the treatment of infantile colic, L. reuteri DSM 17938 is recommended as level 1 evidence by the World Gastroenterology Organization (WGO) and Latin-American Experts. Additionally, data suggests that L. reuteri DSM 17938 efficiently lowers newborn colic in babies who are breastfed. For newborns given formula, no recommendations have been provided, though. L. reuteri DSM 17938 was introduced to term baby formula in 2011 and given the Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) classification by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For nursing babies with colic, the American Academy of Family Physicians has recommended L. reuteri DSM 17938 as a probiotic with a grade of B . There is some encouraging evidence to suggest the function of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in the management of regurgitation, based on data from various research.
6. Conclusion
Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive impact of probiotic strain L. reuteri on human health. We draw the conclusion that L. reuteri is essential for preserving a healthy composition of the gut microbiota. Numerous clinical studies have demonstrated the probiotic's safety, effectiveness, and tolerance in treating and preventing a wide range of gastrointestinal illnesses and fostering immunological modulatory effects. We believe that L. reuteri satisfies all the necessary conditions to have a positive impact on gut health. Additionally, the results of several experiments and published research show that administering L. reuteri does not carry any dangers or adverse effects associated with colic or other GI diseases. More clinical research is advised, therefore, in order to assess the immediate and long-term effects of L. reuteri strains on enhancing gut microbiota activities as well as how they interact with other organ systems. Since the probiotic properties of Lactobacillus reuteri vary depending on the strain, it might be advantageous to mix several strains to maximize their beneficial effects. Subsequent investigations in this field will not only augment our comprehension of this specific probiotic but additionally provide the catalyst for its broader use in the management of illnesses and health.
Abbreviations
L. reuteri: Lactobacillus reuteri
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM: L. reuteri DSM is a probiotic that can colonize different human body sites, including primarily the gastrointestinal tract, but also the urinary tract, the skin, and breast milk
Conflicts of Interest
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
References
[1] Lee J, Yang W, Hostetler A. et al. Characterization of the anti inflammatory Lactobacillus reuteri BM36301 and its probiotic benefits on aged mice. BMC Microbiol; 2016; 16: 69.
[2] Derrien M, Alvarez AS, de Vos WM. The Gut Microbiota in the First Decade of Life. Trends Microbiol. 2019; 27: 997-10.
[3] Zheng, D., Liwinski, T. & Elinav, E. Interaction between microbiota and immunity in health and disease. Cell Res. 2020; 30: 492–06.
[4] Srinivasan R, Kesavelu D, Veligandla KC, et al. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938: Review of evidence in functional gastrointestinal disorders. Pediatr Ther. 2018; 8: 350-57.
[5] Mu Q, Tavella VJ, & Luo XM. Role of Lactobacillus reuteri in Human Health and Diseases. Front in microbio, 2018; 9: 757.
[6] Collado, M. C.; Rautava, S.; Aakko, J.; Isolauri, E.; Salminen, S. Human gut colonisation may be initiated in utero by distinct microbial communities in the placenta and amniotic fluid. Sci. Rep. 2016, 6, 23129.
[7] Martinez, K. A., Romano-Keeler, J.; Zackular, J. P.; Moore, D. J.; Brucker, R. M.; Hooper, C.; Meng, S.; Brown, M.; Mallal, S.; Reese, J.; et al. Bacterial DNA is present in the fetal intestine and overlaps with that in the placenta in mice. PLoS ONE 2018, 13, e0197439.
[8] Bäckhed, F.; Roswall, J.; Peng, Y.; Feng, Q.; Jia, H.; Kovatcheva-Datchary, P.; Li, Y.; Xia, Y.; Xie, H.; Zhong, H.; et al. Dynamics and stabilization of the human gut microbiome during the first year of life. Cell. Host Microbe 2015, 17, 690–703.
[9] De Filippo, C.; Cavalieri, D.; Di Paola, M.; Ramazzotti, M.; Poullet, J. B.; Massart, S.; Collini, S.; Pieraccini, G.; Lionetti, P. Impact of diet in shaping gut microbiota revealed by a comparative study in children from Europe and rural Africa. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 2010, 107, 14691–14696.
[10] Turta, O.; Rautava, S. Antibiotics, obesity and the link to microbes—What are we doing to our children, BMC Med. 2016, 14, 57.
[11] Vandenplas Y, Hauser B, Salvatore S. Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Infancy: Impact on the Health of the Infant and Family. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr. 2019; 22: 207-16.
[12] Steutel NF, Zeevenhooven J, Scarpato E, et al. Prevalence of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in European Infants and Toddlers. J Pediatr. 2020; 221: 107-14.
[13] Saviano A, Brigida M, Migneco A, et al. Lactobacillus Reuteri DSM 17938 (LimosiLactobacillus reuteri) in Diarrhea and Constipation: Two Sides of the Same Coin? Medicina. 2021; 57: 643.
[14] Yijing Peng Yizhe Ma Zichen Luo Yifan Jiang Zhimin Xu Renqiang Yu: Lactobacillus reuteri in digestive system diseases: focus on clinical trials and mechanisms: Front. Cell. Infect. Microbiol., 18 August 2023 Sec. Intestinal Microbiome: Volume 13 – 2023.
[15] Pärtty A, Rautava S, Kalliomäki M. Probiotics on pediatric functional gastrointestinal disorders. Nutrients. 2018; 10: 1836.
[16] Orel Rok. Effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri for prevention and treatment of functional gastrointestinal disorders in infants, children and adolescents (Review). Zdravniski Vestnik. 2018; 82. I83-93.
[17] Klem, F.; Wadhwa, A.; Prokop, L. J.; Sundt, W. J.; Farrugia, G.; Camilleri, M.; Singh, S.; Grover, M. Prevalence, risk factors, and outcome of irritable bowel syndrome after infectious enteritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Gastroenterology 2017, 152, 1042–1052. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[18] Maxwell, P. R.; Rink, E.; Kumar, D.; Mendall, M. A. Antibiotics increase functional abdominal symptoms. Am. J. Gastroenterol. 2002, 97, 104–108. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[19] Lembo, A.; Pimentel, M.; Rao, S. S.; Schoenfeld, P.; Cash Weinstock, L. B.; Paterson, C.; Bortey, E.; Forbes, W. P. Repeat treatment with rifaximin is safe and effective in patients with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome. Gastoenterology 2016, 151, 1113–1121. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[20] Collins, B. S.; Lin, H. C. Double-blind, placebo-controlled antibiotic treatment study of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth in children with chronic abdominal pain. J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. 2011, 52, 382–386. [CrossRef].
[21] Rajilic-Stojanovic, M.; Jonkers, D. M.; Salonen, A.; Inte Hanevik, K.; Raes, J.; Jalanka, J.; de Vos, W. M.; Manichanh, C.; Golic, N.; Enck, P.; et al. Intestinal microbiota and diet in IBS: Causes, consequences, or epiphenomena? Am. J. Gastroenterol. 2015, 110, 278–287. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[22] Romano, C.; Ferrau, V.; Cavataio, F.; Iacono, G.; Spina, M.; Lionetti, E.; Comisi, F.; Famiani, A.; Comito, D. Lactobacillus reuteri in children with functional abdominal pain (FAP). J. Paediatr. Child Health 2014, 50, 68–70. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[23] Eftekhari, K.; Vahedi, Z.; Kamali Aghdam, M.; Noemi Diaz, D. A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial of Lactobacillus reuteri for chronic functional abdominal pain in children. Iran. J. Pediatr. 2015, 25, e2616. [CrossRef].
[24] Weizman, Z.; Abu-Abed, J.; Binsztok, M. Lactobacillus reuteri 17938 for the management of functional abdominal pain in childhood: A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial. J. Pediatr. 2016, 174, 160–164. [CrossRef].
[25] Jadresin, O.; Hojsak, I.; Misak, Z.; Kekez, A. J.; Trbojevi´c, T.; Ivkovi´c, L.; Kolaˇcek, S. Lactobacillus reuteri 17938 in the treatment of functional abdominal pain in children: RCT study. J. Pediatr. Gastroenterol. Nutr. 2017, 64, 925–929.
[26] Maragkoudaki, M.; Chouliaras, G.; Orel, R.; Horvath, A.; Szajewska, H.; Papadopoulou, A. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 and a placebo both significantly reduced symptoms in children with functional abdominal pain. Acta Paediatr. 2017, 106, 1857–1862.
[27] Coccorullo, P.; Strisciuglio, C.; Martinelli, M.; Miele, E.; Greco, L.; Staiano, A. Lactobacillus reuteri (17938) in infants with functional chronic constipation: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. J. Pediatr. 2010, 157, 598–602. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[28] Guerra, P. V. P.; Lima, L. N.; Souza, T. C.; Mazochi, V.; Penna, F. J.; Silva, A. M.; Nicoli, J. R.; Guimarães, E. V. Periatric functional constipation treatment with Bifidobacterium-containing yogurt: A crossover, double-blind, controlled trial. World J. Gastroenterol. 2011, 17, 3916–3921.
[29] Tabbers, M. M.; Chmielewska, A.; Roseboom, M. G.; Crastes, N.; Perrin, C.; Reitsma, J. B.; Norbruis, O.; Szajewska, H.; Benninga, M. A. Fermented milk containing Bifidobacterium lactis DN-173 010 in childhood constipation: A randomized, double-blind, controlled trial. Pediatrics 2011, 127, 1392–1399.
[30] Dryl, R.; Szajewska, H. Probiotics for management of infantile colic: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Arch. Med. Sci. 2018, 14, 1137–1143. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[31] Savino, F.; Cordisco, L.; Tarasco, V.; Palumeri, E.; Calabrese, R.; Oggero, R.; Roos, S.; Matteuzzi, D. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in infantile colic: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Pediatrics 2010, 126, 526–533. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[32] Szajewska, H.; Gyrczuk, E.; Horvath, A. Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 for the management of infantile colic in breastfed infants: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J. Pediatr. 2013, 162, 257–262.
[33] Sung, V.; Hiscock, H.; Tang, M. L.; Mensah, F. K.; Nation, M. L.; Satzke, C.; Heine, R. G.; Stock, A.; Barr, R. G.; Wake, M. Treating infant colic with the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri: Double blind, placebo controlled randomised trial. BMJ 2014, 348, g2107. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[34] Chau, K.; Lau, E.; Greenberg, S.; Jacobson, S.; Yazdani-Brojeni, P.; Verma, N.; Koren, G. Probiotics for infantile colic: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigating Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938. J. Pediatr. 2015, 166, 74–78. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[35] Mi, G. L.; Zhao, L.; Qiao, D. D.; Kang, W. Q.; Tang, M. Q.; Xu, J. K. Effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri in infantile colic and colicky induced maternal depression: A prospective single blind randomized trial. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2015, 107, 1547–1553.
[36] Sung, V.; D’Amico, F.; Cabana, M. D.; Chau, K.; Koren, G.; Savino, F.; Szajewska, H.; Deshpande, G.; Dupont, C.; Indrio, F.; et al. Lactobacillus reuteri to Treat Infant Colic: A Meta-analysis. Pediatrics 2018, 141.
[37] Savino, F.; Garro, M.; Montanari, P.; Galliano, I.; Bergallo, M. Crying Time and RORγ/FOXP3 Expression in Lactobacillus reuteri DSM17938-Treated Infants with Colic: A Randomized Trial. J. Pediatr. 2018, 192, 171–177.
[38] Fatheree, N. Y.; Liu, Y.; Taylor, C. M.; Hoang, T. K.; Cai, C.; Rahbar, M. H.; Hessabi, M.; Ferris, M.; McMurtry, V.; Wong, C.; et al. Lactobacillus reuteri for Infants with Colic: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Clinical Trial. J. Pediatr. 2017, 191, 170–178. [CrossRef] [PubMed].
[39] Pärtty, A.; Lehtonen, L.; Kalliomäki, M.; Salminen, S.; Isolauri, E. Probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG therapy and microbiological programming in infantile colic: A randomized, controlled trial. Pediatr. Res. 2015, 78, 470–475.
[40] Valeur N, Engel P, Carbajal N, et al. Colonization and immunomodulation by Lactobacillus reuteri ATCC 55730 in the human gastrointestinal tract. Applied Environ Micro. 2004; 70: 1176–81.
[41] Hojsak I. Probiotics in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders. Adv Exp Med Biol. 2019; 1125: 121-137.
[42] Daelemans S, Peeters L, Hauser B, et al. Recent advances in understanding and managing infantile colic. F1000Res. 2018; 7: 1426.
[43] Francavilla R, Lionetti E, Castellaneta S, et al. Randomised clinical trial: Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 vs. placebo in children with acute diarrhoea--a double-blind study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2012; 36: 363-9.
[44] Papagaroufalis K, Fotiou A, Egli D, et al. A Randomized Double Blind Controlled Safety Trial Evaluating d-Lactic Acid Production in Healthy Infants Fed a Lactobacillus reuteri-containing Formula. Nutr Metab Insights. 2014; 22: 19-27.
[45] Depoorter L, Vandenplas Y. Probiotics in Pediatrics. A Review and Practical Guide. Nutrients. 2021; 24; 13: 2176.
Cite This Article
  • APA Style

    Uddin, M. B., Uddin, S., Deb, B., Hussain, T., Rafi, S. A., et al. (2024). The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood . International Journal of Gastroenterology, 8(1), 14-21. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14

    Copy | Download

    ACS Style

    Uddin, M. B.; Uddin, S.; Deb, B.; Hussain, T.; Rafi, S. A., et al. The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood . Int. J. Gastroenterol. 2024, 8(1), 14-21. doi: 10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14

    Copy | Download

    AMA Style

    Uddin MB, Uddin S, Deb B, Hussain T, Rafi SA, et al. The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood . Int J Gastroenterol. 2024;8(1):14-21. doi: 10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14

    Copy | Download

  • @article{10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14,
      author = {Mohammad Basir Uddin and Shahab Uddin and Bishwajit Deb and Tania Hussain and Sohel Al Rafi and Azizul Islam},
      title = {The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood
    },
      journal = {International Journal of Gastroenterology},
      volume = {8},
      number = {1},
      pages = {14-21},
      doi = {10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14},
      url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14},
      eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijg.20240801.14},
      abstract = {Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri has been shown to be useful for a number of gastrointestinal disorders. Its ability to secrete antimicrobial compounds, prevent pathogenic microorganisms from colonizing the host, and alter the composition of the commensal microbiota in the host are all major contributors to its therapeutic advantages. Not only that, but L. reuteri treatment strengthens the host's defenses against infection and pro-inflammatory cytokine production while enhancing the growth and functionality of regulatory T cells. Numerous pediatric illnesses, particularly those pertaining to the intestinal health of infants, have been found to be well managed by L. reuteri, according to systematic reviews and meta-analyses. According to current research on L. reuteri, it may be useful in the management and avoidance of a number of common clinical disorders, including functional constipation, infantile colic, regurgitation, and diarrhea. Probiotic treatment for pediatric illnesses has had favorable benefits on bowel regularity in individuals with chronic constipation and has been found to successfully reduce screaming and/or fussing time in newborns with colic. Additionally, it quickens the emptying of the stomach and lessens distension. Several research have even come to the conclusion that this probiotic strain reduces the frequency of regurgitation. The potential of this probiotic strain for application in the treatment of several gastrointestinal disorders is evident from all of these findings. Therefore, this study aims to encapsulate and condense the advantages of this probiotic strain in clinical settings, with a particular emphasis on how it supports babies' and toddlers' immune systems and gut health.
    },
     year = {2024}
    }
    

    Copy | Download

  • TY  - JOUR
    T1  - The Role of Lactobacillus Reuteri Probiotic for Preventing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in Toddlerhood
    
    AU  - Mohammad Basir Uddin
    AU  - Shahab Uddin
    AU  - Bishwajit Deb
    AU  - Tania Hussain
    AU  - Sohel Al Rafi
    AU  - Azizul Islam
    Y1  - 2024/04/11
    PY  - 2024
    N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14
    DO  - 10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14
    T2  - International Journal of Gastroenterology
    JF  - International Journal of Gastroenterology
    JO  - International Journal of Gastroenterology
    SP  - 14
    EP  - 21
    PB  - Science Publishing Group
    SN  - 2640-169X
    UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijg.20240801.14
    AB  - Probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri has been shown to be useful for a number of gastrointestinal disorders. Its ability to secrete antimicrobial compounds, prevent pathogenic microorganisms from colonizing the host, and alter the composition of the commensal microbiota in the host are all major contributors to its therapeutic advantages. Not only that, but L. reuteri treatment strengthens the host's defenses against infection and pro-inflammatory cytokine production while enhancing the growth and functionality of regulatory T cells. Numerous pediatric illnesses, particularly those pertaining to the intestinal health of infants, have been found to be well managed by L. reuteri, according to systematic reviews and meta-analyses. According to current research on L. reuteri, it may be useful in the management and avoidance of a number of common clinical disorders, including functional constipation, infantile colic, regurgitation, and diarrhea. Probiotic treatment for pediatric illnesses has had favorable benefits on bowel regularity in individuals with chronic constipation and has been found to successfully reduce screaming and/or fussing time in newborns with colic. Additionally, it quickens the emptying of the stomach and lessens distension. Several research have even come to the conclusion that this probiotic strain reduces the frequency of regurgitation. The potential of this probiotic strain for application in the treatment of several gastrointestinal disorders is evident from all of these findings. Therefore, this study aims to encapsulate and condense the advantages of this probiotic strain in clinical settings, with a particular emphasis on how it supports babies' and toddlers' immune systems and gut health.
    
    VL  - 8
    IS  - 1
    ER  - 

    Copy | Download

Author Information
  • Department of Paediatric, North East Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh

  • Department of Paediatric, Sylhet Women's Medical College and Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh

  • Department of Paediatric, Sreemongal Upazila Health Complex, Sylhet, Bangladesh

  • Department of Paediatric, North East Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh

  • Department of Paediatric, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh

  • Department of Paediatric, 250 Bed Sadar Hospital, Sylhet, Bangladesh