Lactobacillus GG—a human probiotic strain with thorough clinical documentation

Abstract

Probiotic bacteria for human nutrition are generally strains of lactic acid bacteria or bifidobacteria. The beneficial effects of these strains on human health and well‐being are documented in experimental and clinical studies. Lactobacillus (casei subsp.) rhamnosus GG (ATCC 53103) is a probiotic strain of human origin. The strain has most of the characteristics generally proposed for a good probiotic strain, including excellent survival in the stomach and small intestine and transient colonization of the gastrointestinal tract, which is based on its adhesion capacity to intestinal cells. Successful recovery of the strain in stool samples has made dose‐response studies possible and enabled the evaluation of effective dosing using food products. The beneficial effects of the strain have been shown in many types of intestinal disturbances caused by pathogenic bacteria and viruses, as well as in prophylactic use. The latest studies on Lactobacillus GG have shown stabilizing effect on gut permeability and suppression of allergic reactions in food hypersensitivity. The safety of Lactobacillus GG has been documented in experimental, clinical, and epidemiological studies. The scientific documentation of Lactobacillus GG is reviewed in reference to uses in functional and clinical foods.