Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 and Cholesterol Lowering: Evidence Review
User asked about Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 for lowering cholesterol. Assistant cited one RCT (n=149) in women with gestational diabetes showing significant attenuation of LDL and total cholesterol rise compared to placebo. Limited evidence suggests potential benefit, but more research needed in broader populations.
Does taking Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 help lower cholesterol levels?
Based on the research available in Pillser's database, there is some evidence that Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 may help lower cholesterol levels, specifically LDL cholesterol.
Key Findings
Pillser has 1 randomized controlled trial (n=149) examining Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 and cholesterol outcomes:
- Effect type: Beneficial — the study found a statistically significant reduction in LDL cholesterol levels compared to placebo.
- Study population: Women with gestational diabetes mellitus.
- Key result: The late-gestation rise in LDL cholesterol was significantly attenuated in the probiotic group (+0.08 mmol/L) compared to the placebo group (+0.31 mmol/L, p = 0.011)1.
Summary
This single study suggests that Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 may help attenuate the rise in LDL and total cholesterol, particularly in metabolic contexts like gestational diabetes. However, the evidence is limited to one study in a specific population, so more research in broader populations would help confirm the effect.
If you'd like, I can also look into other probiotics that have been studied for cholesterol management, or help you find products containing this strain.
Footnotes
-
Pillser research database, Lactobacillus salivarius UCC118 and Reduced LDL Cholesterol. ↩