# Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 **Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/lactobacillus-reuteri-ncimb-30242 **Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia **Updated:** 2026-03-18 **Evidence Score:** 8 / 10 **Category:** Other **Also Known As:** Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242, L. reuteri NCIMB 30242, LRC, Cardiovascular probiotic strain, Cholesterol-lowering lactobacillus, Heart-healthy probiotic, NCIMB 30242 strain ## Overview Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 is a probiotic strain that produces bile salt hydrolase enzymes to break down cholesterol and improve [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health). This strain enhances gut [microbiome diversity](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) while supporting healthy cholesterol [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) through direct enzymatic action. ## Health Benefits - Supports [cardiovascular health](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by potentially lowering cholesterol levels, with studies showing up to a 9% decrease in LDL cholesterol. It promotes heart health. - Enhances gut health by increasing the diversity of beneficial bacteria, which can improve digestion and nutrient absorption. It supports a balanced [microbiome](/ingredients/condition/gut-health). - Boosts [immune function](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) by enhancing the activity of macrophages, which helps the body combat infections more effectively. It strengthens immune resilience. - Reduces [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) by modulating the immune response, which can alleviate symptoms of chronic inflammatory diseases. It promotes overall wellness. - Improves [skin health](/ingredients/condition/skin-health) by reducing [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant), which can decrease acne severity and improve skin texture. It supports a radiant complexion. - Aids in weight management by influencing the gut hormones that regulate appetite, potentially reducing hunger and caloric intake. It supports a healthy [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management). - Enhances mental clarity by supporting the gut-brain axis, which can improve [cognitive function](/ingredients/condition/cognitive) and mood. It promotes mental acuity and emotional balance. ## Mechanism of Action Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 produces bile salt hydrolase (BSH) enzymes that deconjugate bile acids in the intestine, forcing the liver to use cholesterol to synthesize new bile acids and lowering serum cholesterol levels. The strain also produces [antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) compounds like reuterin that inhibit pathogenic bacteria while promoting beneficial [microbiome diversity](/ingredients/condition/gut-health). Additionally, it enhances intestinal barrier function by stimulating tight junction proteins and reducing [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) cytokines. ## Clinical Summary A randomized controlled trial with 127 adults showed Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 supplementation for 9 weeks reduced [LDL cholesterol](/ingredients/condition/heart-health) by 9% and total cholesterol by 5% compared to placebo. The same study demonstrated improved gut [microbiome diversity](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) with increased beneficial Bifidobacterium and reduced pathogenic species. Additional studies have shown improvements in [inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) markers including reduced C-reactive protein levels. While promising, most research involves relatively small sample sizes and short-term interventions. ## Nutritional Profile - Available in [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) supplements and some dairy products. - Contains live bacteria beneficial for heart and gut health. - Often combined with other probiotics for enhanced effects. ## Dosage & Preparation Typically consumed in doses of 1-10 billion CFU per day. Consult a healthcare provider before use. ## Safety & Drug Interactions Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 is generally well-tolerated with mild digestive symptoms like bloating or gas reported in some individuals during initial supplementation. No significant drug interactions have been documented, though individuals taking immunosuppressive medications should consult healthcare providers before use. The strain appears safe for most healthy adults, but safety data during pregnancy and lactation is limited. People with severe immunocompromised conditions should avoid [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) supplementation without medical supervision. ## Scientific Research Research shows Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 may help lower cholesterol levels and support gut health, with studies supporting its [probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health) benefits. ## Historical & Cultural Context [Probiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)s like Lactobacillus reuteri have been used in fermented foods for centuries, valued for their health benefits across various cultures. ## Synergistic Combinations Cholesterol-lowering foods, Bifidobacterium, [Prebiotic](/ingredients/condition/gut-health)s, Gut microbiota, Heart health ## Frequently Asked Questions ### How much Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 should I take for cholesterol? Clinical studies used 2.9 billion CFU daily for 9 weeks to achieve a 9% reduction in LDL cholesterol. This dosage was taken once daily with food to enhance survival and colonization in the digestive tract. ### How long does it take for Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 to work? Cholesterol improvements typically appear within 4-6 weeks of daily supplementation based on clinical trials. Gut microbiome changes may occur earlier, within 2-3 weeks, while maximum cardiovascular benefits require 8-9 weeks of consistent use. ### Can I take Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 with statins? No direct interactions between this probiotic strain and statin medications have been reported in studies. However, the combined cholesterol-lowering effects may be additive, so monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended when using both interventions. ### What foods contain Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 naturally? This specific strain (NCIMB 30242) is not found naturally in foods and must be obtained through targeted supplementation. While other Lactobacillus reuteri strains exist in some fermented foods, they lack the specific cholesterol-lowering properties of NCIMB 30242. ### Does Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 need to be refrigerated? Refrigeration is recommended to maintain maximum potency and CFU counts throughout the product's shelf life. While some formulations are shelf-stable, storing at 2-8°C (36-46°F) ensures optimal bacterial viability and therapeutic effectiveness. ### Is Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 safe for children? Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 is generally considered safe for children, as it is a naturally occurring probiotic strain found in the human gut. However, dosage recommendations for children differ significantly from adults, and it is essential to consult a pediatrician before giving this supplement to infants or young children. Some studies have examined this strain in pediatric populations, but appropriate dosing depends on the child's age and health status. ### What clinical research supports the cholesterol-lowering effects of Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242? Multiple randomized controlled trials have demonstrated that Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 can reduce LDL cholesterol by up to 9% in adult populations with elevated cholesterol levels. The proposed mechanism involves the bacterial strain's ability to inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the gut and enhance its excretion. Most significant results have been observed with consistent daily supplementation over 8–12 weeks, though individual responses may vary based on baseline cholesterol levels and diet. ### How does Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 compare to other Lactobacillus reuteri strains for cardiovascular health? Lactobacillus reuteri NCIMB 30242 is one of the most extensively studied strains specifically for cholesterol reduction and cardiovascular benefit, with proprietary research backing its efficacy. Not all Lactobacillus reuteri strains have the same cholesterol-lowering properties, as benefits are strain-specific rather than species-specific. Other reuteri strains may offer different probiotic benefits such as immune support or digestive health, but NCIMB 30242 stands out for its established cardiovascular applications in clinical literature. --- *Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com* *License: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0 — Attribution required. Commercial use: admin@hermeticasuperfoods.com*