From the Guidelines
Weisella cibaria is not recommended as a probiotic for gastrointestinal health due to limited clinical evidence establishing its safety and efficacy. This lactic acid bacterium has demonstrated potential benefits in laboratory and animal studies, including antimicrobial properties against harmful pathogens, anti-inflammatory effects, and the ability to produce beneficial compounds like exopolysaccharides that may support gut health 1. Some strains of W. cibaria have received Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) status or qualified presumption of safety from regulatory bodies, suggesting basic safety for consumption. However, unlike more established probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species, W. cibaria lacks extensive human clinical trials confirming specific health benefits or optimal dosing regimens.
Key Considerations
- The regulatory framework for probiotics is complex and varies between countries, with a lack of stringent regulation of manufacturing processes and postmarketing surveillance 1.
- The use of probiotics in vulnerable populations, such as those with compromised immune systems or serious gastrointestinal conditions, requires careful evaluation and consideration of the risk-benefit ratio 1.
- The gut microbiome is highly individualized, and probiotic effects can vary significantly between people, making it essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any probiotic regimen 1.
Recommendations
- For those interested in probiotic supplementation for gastrointestinal issues, it would be more advisable to first consider probiotics with stronger clinical evidence bases, such as Saccharomyces boulardii or specific strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium 1.
- Patients who place a high value on avoiding associated financial cost or potential harms and who have low risk of developing gastrointestinal disorders may choose not to use any probiotics.
- The use of probiotics in adults and children with Crohn’s disease is only recommended in the context of a clinical trial, due to the limited evidence and potential risks involved 1.
From the Research
Safety and Efficacy of Weisella cibaria as a Probiotic
- Weisella cibaria has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its use as a probiotic for gastrointestinal health 2, 3.
- Research suggests that Weisella strains, including W. cibaria, have probiotic potential and can survive in the gastrointestinal tract 2.
- Studies have shown that W. cibaria is safe and effective in improving oral health, including reducing bad breath and improving periodontal health 4, 5.
- The use of W. cibaria as a probiotic has also been associated with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for gastrointestinal health 3.
Mechanisms of Action
- Weisella cibaria has been shown to produce antimicrobial exopolysaccharides (EPSs) and bacteriocins, which can help to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria 2.
- W. cibaria has also been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which may be beneficial for reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract 3.
- The probiotic has been shown to improve the microbial environment in the gut, which can help to promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria 4.
Clinical Applications
- Weisella cibaria has been used in clinical trials to evaluate its effectiveness in improving oral health and reducing bad breath 4, 5.
- The probiotic has been found to be safe and well-tolerated in these studies, with no significant adverse effects reported 4, 5.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and limitations of using W. cibaria as a probiotic for gastrointestinal health 6, 2, 3.