Lactobacillus gasseri for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
DEmerging evidence from Japanese studies. May reduce acid-related symptoms. Not yet replicated in Western populations.
The Bottom Line
Emerging evidence from Japanese studies. May reduce acid-related symptoms. Not yet replicated in Western populations.
Key Study Findings
Population: patients with IBS from 32 RCTs evaluating 10 probiotic strains
Population: AGS gastric epithelial cells and mouse model
Population: None
Population: Cancer patients
Population: Mice
Population: Gastric intestinal metaplasia cases and matched controls
Key Statistics
3
Studies
300
Participants
Positive
Grade
Referenced Papers
Dosage & Usage
mg = milligrams · mcg = micrograms (1,000× smaller) · IU = International Units
Commonly Used Dosages
- general:
- 1-10 billion CFU/day
- gerdsupport:
- 1-5 billion CFU/day
- hpylorisupport:
- 100 million CFU/day (LG21 strain, yogurt form) for 8-12 weeks
Upper limit: Well-tolerated up to 10 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Dosages Studied in Research
| Dosage | Duration | Effect | N |
|---|---|---|---|
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| 50 μg/ml | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Mixed | -- |
| None | -- | Neutral | 178 |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
| None | -- | Positive | -- |
Best taken: Before meals or with meals; yogurt form taken with food
Safety & Side Effects
Reported Side Effects
- ⚠ Mild gas during initial use
- ⚠ Occasional loose stools
- ⚠ Rare abdominal discomfort
- ⚠ Very rare: bacteremia in immunocompromised individuals
Known Interactions
- ● Antibiotics (may reduce probiotic viability; space dosing 2 hours apart)
- ● Proton pump inhibitors (altered gastric pH may affect colonization)
- ● Immunosuppressants (theoretical risk in immunocompromised patients)
Tolerable upper intake: Well-tolerated up to 10 billion CFU/day in clinical trials
Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lactobacillus gasseri help with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
How much Lactobacillus gasseri should I take for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Are there side effects of Lactobacillus gasseri?
How strong is the evidence for Lactobacillus gasseri and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)?
Related Evidence
Other ingredients for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Lactobacillus gasseri for other conditions
FDA Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products and information on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The evidence grades presented are based on our analysis of published peer-reviewed research and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen.