10 science-proven benefits of Lactobacillus casei supplements for boosting longevity

Whether it’s cracking the code to optimal health or simply maintaining balance in a hectic world, one thing is certain—your gut plays a damn crucial role. 

Lactobacillus casei, recently reclassified as Lacticaseibacillus casei, is the probiotic powerhouse you may not have heard of, but definitely need on your radar.

Probiotics have been the centre of attention lately, but Lacticaseibacillus casei stands apart, backed by years of scientific research. 

This versatile bacterium is celebrated for its far-reaching benefits, from strengthening your immune system and improving digestion, to supporting liver function and even enhancing metabolic health. 

It’s earned its reputation as a key player in longevity, featured both in cutting-edge supplements and traditional fermented foods.

In this Avea article, we’ll delve into the science behind Lacticaseibacillus casei, explore how it can support your health, and discuss the best ways to incorporate it into your daily routine. 

Let’s have a closer look at how this remarkable probiotic can contribute to your well-being and longevity. For simplicity, we will still use the term Lactobacillus casei, or L. Casei.

What Is Lactobacillus Casei?

Lactobacillus casei is a gram-positive, rod-shaped bacterium that belongs to the Lactobacillus genus.

This family of bacteria is renowned for its role in fermentation, which is why L. casei is found in many dairy products, including cheese and yoghurt. It also naturally resides in the human digestive and reproductive tracts. 

The probiotic properties of L. casei make it a powerhouse for gut health. As a non-motile and non-sporulating organism, it ferments sugars into lactic acid, helping to regulate the pH of its surroundings. For this reason, L. casei is widely used commercially in the fermentation process of dairy products.

What sets L. casei apart from other Lactobacilli is its ability to thrive across a range of pH levels and temperatures. This adaptability means it can survive the journey through the digestive tract and make its way to where it’s needed. 

Extensive research on Lactobacillus casei has highlighted several health benefits, including:

• Enhancing immune response.
• Improving digestion and supporting gut health.
• Alleviating liver inflammation.
• Modulating metabolism.
• Boosting antioxidant defences.

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1. Gram-positive bacterium

Lactobacillus casei is a gram-positive bacterium, meaning it has a thick cell wall that retains the violet stain used in Gram staining—a key method for bacterial classification. This structure offers protection from environmental stressors, allowing L. casei to thrive even in the acidic environment of the stomach. This resilience ensures it reaches the intestines intact, where it can exert its probiotic effects.

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2. Facultatively anaerobic bacterium

Unlike some bacteria, Lactobacillus casei is facultatively anaerobic, meaning it can survive in both oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor environments. This adaptability is crucial for its survival in the human gut, where oxygen levels vary. In the gut, L. casei ferments carbohydrates, producing lactic acid. This fermentation process helps lower the pH of the gut, which inhibits harmful pathogens and promotes a healthy microbial balance.

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3. Non-motile bacterium

Lactobacillus casei is also non-motile, meaning it lacks the ability to move independently. Whilst this might seem like a limitation, it is actually advantageous for stability. Rather than moving around, L. casei adheres to the gut lining, where it can colonise effectively. By establishing itself in the intestines, it helps maintain a balanced gut environment, supporting digestion, immune function, and protecting against the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Is Lactobacillus Casei a probiotic?

Yes! Lactobacillus casei is a well-known probiotic, meaning it’s a type of bacteria that’s good for you, especially when it comes to digestion and immunity. 

Probiotics like Lactobacillus casei are essential for maintaining a healthy balance in your gut microbiota–the collection of bacteria living in your digestive system. 

A healthy gut means better digestion, a stronger immune system, and even improved mental health.

Learn why your gut microbiome matters with Dr Will Bulsiewicz, the gut doctor.

Is Lactobacillus Paracasei the same as Lactobacillus Casei?

Although these two bacteria are from the same family, they are not the same. Lactobacillus paracasei and Lactobacillus casei have different strains and benefits. 

Both are probiotics, but they have unique characteristics that help in different ways. Whilst Lactobacillus paracasei is mainly studied for its immune-boosting properties, Lactobacillus casei has a broader impact, helping in digestion, immune function, and even liver health.

What does Lactobacillus Casei do for your health?

So, what can this tiny bacterium do for you? As it turns out, a lot! Let’s break down its key benefits and how they can make a difference in your life.

1. Supporting your immune system and fighting respiratory infections

When it comes to protecting your body from illness, your immune system is your first line of defence–and Lactobacillus casei can give it a serious boost. 

Studies on mice have shown that L. casei helps the immune system recover faster after infections like Streptococcus pneumoniae, a common respiratory pathogen. 

In human studies, L. casei 431 reduced the duration of common cold symptoms, though it didn’t significantly impact the body’s response to flu vaccines.

If you’re someone who struggles with frequent colds or respiratory infections, adding L. casei to your daily routine could help reduce the severity and duration of those pesky illnesses.

2. Improving your gut health and digestive balance

We often think about digestion when talking about probiotics, and L. casei is no exception. 

By balancing the bacteria in your gut, L. casei can help prevent issues like diarrhoea and constipation.

In preterm infants, combining L. casei with other probiotics like Bifidobacterium breve has been shown to reduce the risk of necrotising enterocolitis (NEC), a dangerous intestinal condition. 

For adults, L. casei can be just as beneficial. It has been shown to maintain gut integrity, reducing the risk of diarrhoea, constipation, and other digestive imbalances by inhibiting harmful bacteria. 

Whether you’re dealing with occasional digestive discomfort or looking to strengthen your gut’s natural defences, L. casei offers reliable support.

3. Enhancing your liver health and reducing inflammation

Whilst probiotics are often associated with gut health, Lactobacillus casei offers benefits beyond the digestive system. 

Research in animal models has shown that this probiotic helps protect the liver by reducing inflammation. 

In particular, L. casei was found to lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which play a role in liver damage, and increase antioxidant activity, helping the liver detoxify more effectively.

Although more human studies are needed, the existing evidence suggests that L. casei may be a useful supplement for those concerned about liver health, especially in the context of inflammation and oxidative stress. Adding it to your routine could help promote liver function and reduce the risk of liver-related issues over time.

4. Boosting antioxidant defences and protecting from free radicals

Oxidative stress is something many of us face daily, whether from environmental toxins, poor diet, or simply stress itself. The good news? Lactobacillus casei has been shown to boost your body’s antioxidant defences. 

Studies have found that when combined with prebiotics like inulin, L. casei can increase antioxidant enzyme activity, helping neutralise harmful free radicals that damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases.

For those seeking to reduce the effects of oxidative stress, whether to slow down the ageing process or lower the risk of conditions like heart disease and cancer, L. casei offers a natural way to boost your body’s defences and promote cellular health.

Learn more about the importance of antioxidants for anti-ageing here.

5. Promoting a healthy lipid profile for your heart health

Concerned about your cholesterol levels? Lactobacillus casei may have something to offer. Research has shown that fermented milk products containing L. casei can help improve your lipid profile. 

In studies on obese adults, L. casei was linked to reductions in total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), and triglyceride levels, whilst preserving HDL (good cholesterol).

This effect on lipid levels suggests that L. casei may play a role in supporting cardiovascular health, making it a valuable addition to a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle. By improving cholesterol balance, this probiotic could help reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues in the long term.

6. Promoting healthy weight

Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and gut health. Lactobacillus casei has shown promise in studies aimed at managing weight and improving metabolic health. 

In animal models, L. casei was linked to improvements in gut microbiota composition and reductions in obesity markers.

In human studies, fermented milk containing L. casei helped improve the gut microbiota in obese individuals, potentially aiding in weight management. 

There’s even evidence to suggest that L. casei could help manage weight in certain populations by influencing gut hormones and reducing inflammation, making it a useful addition to a weight management plan.

7. Alleviating allergy symptoms and inflammation

If allergies are making your life difficult, Lactobacillus casei might help. Studies have found that specific strains of L. casei can modulate the immune response, reducing inflammation and helping the body manage allergic reactions more effectively. 

In both animal and human studies, synbiotic combinations featuring L. casei were shown to alleviate atopic dermatitis and other allergy-related symptoms, offering a natural alternative to managing inflammatory responses.

The rise in childhood asthma and allergies has been linked to a decrease in early-life exposure to microbes, and probiotics may help counter this by supporting a healthy balance of gut bacteria. Research has shown that children who had early exposure to L. casei and other probiotic strains were less likely to develop allergies by the age of five.

By supporting the immune system and promoting a balanced inflammatory response, L. casei can help improve your body’s tolerance to allergens and potentially reduce the frequency or severity of allergic reactions.

8. Enhancing oral health 

Taking Lactobacillus casei has been shown to help reduce harmful bacteria that live in the spaces between your teeth and gums, known as subgingival plaque. 

These bacteria are a major cause of gum disease, which can lead to inflammation, bleeding gums, and even tooth loss if left untreated. 

By lowering the levels of these harmful bacteria, L. casei can help improve your gum health and reduce the risk of periodontal (gum) disease. Essentially, it acts as a natural helper for keeping your mouth and gums healthier over time.

Remember, oral health is not about a bright smile–it’s deeply connected to the state of your overall health and longevity.

9. Supporting your mental health and brain function

It’s no longer a surprise to see how probiotics can help with mental health and cognitive function. Research into the gut-brain axis, the connection between your gut and brain, suggests that probiotics like L. casei can influence mood and brain function. 

In animal studies, strains from the L. casei group have been shown to reduce anxiety and depressive behaviour by altering the brain’s response to stress.

The effect of probiotics on mental health is so promising that the term “psychobiotics” has been coined to describe bacteria that can positively influence mental well-being. 

By helping to regulate the gut microbiota, L. casei may offer support for mental health, potentially improving mood and cognitive function.

10. Potential role in cancer prevention

Emerging research suggests that Lactobacillus casei might play a role in cancer prevention. 

In animal studies, L. casei has been linked to a reduction in tumour size and cancer cell viability. Specifically, in a study on colon cancer, L. casei was shown to reduce tumour volume by up to 80%, likely by attaching to cancer cells and triggering their death.

Whilst these findings are still in the early stages and more research is needed, the results are promising. Probiotics like L. casei may offer potential in the future as part of cancer prevention or adjunctive treatments, particularly in colon and colorectal cancer.

Is Lactobacillus casei safe to use?

Lactobacillus is a large group of bacteria, with over 200 species, naturally found in the human digestive and urogenital tracts. 

They are also present in many foods like yoghurt, sauerkraut, and fermented products. These bacteria have been used in food fermentation for centuries, leading to their recognition as safe by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

The Lactobacillus casei group (LCG), which includes L. casei, L. paracasei, and L. rhamnosus, is well-studied for its health benefits. 

When taken as a supplement, L. casei is safe and generally well-tolerated, even with long-term use. Some people may experience temporary bloating or gas as their gut adjusts to the introduction of beneficial bacteria. 

These mild symptoms usually subside as the microbiome stabilises, allowing you to enjoy the long-term benefits of improved digestion and overall gut health.

Where can you find Lactobacillus Casei?

1. Foods that contain Lactobacillus Casei

Luckily, getting more Lactobacillus casei in your diet doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some foods rich in this powerful probiotic:

• Yoghurt: Many probiotic yoghurts contain L. casei, making it a simple, tasty way to improve your gut health. Look for yoghurts that specifically mention probiotics or live cultures on the label.
• Cheese: Some types of fermented cheese, like Gouda, are great sources of L. casei. A small amount can go a long way in supporting your gut microbiota.
• Fermented vegetables: Sauerkraut and kimchi are both packed with beneficial probiotics, including L. casei. These tangy vegetables make a delicious addition to meals while also helping your digestive system.

Discover the benefits of fermented foods for longevity.

2. Probiotic supplements with Lactobacillus casei

Lactobacillus casei is frequently included in probiotic supplements that are designed to support gut health and overall well-being. This versatile bacterium is often combined with other probiotic strains to maximise its digestive and immune-boosting benefits.

Avea’s Biomind

At Avea, we’ve created Biomind, a comprehensive probiotic supplement that focuses on gut health, mental well-being, and brain function, incorporating our proprietary strain of Lactobacillus casei, carefully chosen for its proven benefits.

Why you should try Biomind

Biomind is a next generation supplement, backed by 1000+ studies on its blend of ingredients. Each dose contains 30 billion CFUs (colony-forming units) from 10 well-researched strains, including Lactobacillus casei (2 billion CFUs). 

Our potent formula is designed to promote digestive balance, strengthen your immune system, and enhance mental clarity by supporting your gut-brain axis.

Our Lactobacillus casei strain is carefully selected through a partnership with Nordic Biotic, a Danish leader in probiotic research. Through their rigorous in vitro and clinical studies, our strain has been proven to potentially 

• help with symptoms of IBS and may relieve chronic constipation. 
• support the digestion of lactose, easing symptoms of lactose intolerance. 
• reduce inflammation, which may improve mood and support mental health through its role in gut health. 
• strengthen the immune system and shorten the duration of common colds and other respiratory infections.

Lactobacillus casei works alongside other strains in Biomind to help restore balance to the gut microbiota. In fact, when combined with other strains like Bifidobacterium bifidum (as present in Biomind), it strengthens the immune response, supporting nutrient absorption and overall vitality.

Advanced delivery system for maximum effectiveness

Another reason you should consider Avea’s Biomind is for its innovative Duocap® technology—a capsule-in-capsule delivery system that ensures slow, targeted release of the probiotics and nutrients. 

This advanced delivery method allows Lactobacillus casei and other strains to reach their ideal location in your digestive tract, enhancing nutrient absorption, reducing gut inflammation, and reinforcing the gut-brain connection for a holistic approach to health and wellness.

Keynote from Avea

• Lacticaseibacillus casei is a versatile probiotic with proven benefits for gut health, immunity, liver function, and even mental well-being.
• It can be found in fermented foods like yoghurt, cheese, and sauerkraut, as well as in probiotic supplements designed to support digestive and immune function.
• L. casei is safe for long-term use, though some people may experience mild digestive symptoms like bloating as their gut adjusts.
• Emerging research highlights the potential of L. casei in boosting brain health, managing weight, and supporting oral, heart, and liver health.

Dive deeper into the scientific paper on L.Casei here.