Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Lactococcus lactis (sometimes incorrectly referred to as Lactobacillus lactis) is a lactic acid bacterium primarily used as a starter culture in dairy fermentation. Recent research has explored the potential role of certain probiotic strains, including Lactococcus lactis, in supporting cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, especially in reducing gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea and mucositis. The scientific evidence for its use remains limited but promising: animal studies and some small human trials suggest that Lactococcus lactis can modulate the gut microbiota, enhance mucosal barrier function, and exert anti-inflammatory effects, which may ameliorate chemotherapy-induced mucositis and diarrhea. A few clinical studies have reported that probiotics, sometimes including Lactococcus lactis as a component of multi-strain formulations, may reduce the severity and frequency of these side effects; however, the evidence is stronger for other probiotic species (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Bifidobacterium spp.). No large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials have specifically validated the use of Lactococcus lactis alone for this indication. Thus, while there is a scientific rationale and preliminary evidence, it is not robust, and more research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety.

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