By Avni Dalal, ND
You’re probably no stranger to having a probiotic in your supplement regiment–and for good reason. These “beneficial bugs” are helpful bacteria that are key players in supporting a balanced microbiome, a healthy immune system, and optimal digestive function. But did you know that not all probiotics are created equal and that certain strains have specific benefits? One strain that has been gaining attention in clinical research and natural healthcare spaces alike is Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP299V® (LP299V®).
So what makes LP299V stand out, and how can it support your health? Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Lactiplantibacillus plantarum LP299V?
LP299V is a well-studied probiotic strain originally isolated from healthy human intestinal mucosa. It’s known for its ability to survive the highly acidic environment of the stomach and is therefore able to reach the intestines intact, where it adheres to the gut lining and helps promote a balanced microbial environment. This makes it a particularly effective strain for supporting digestive and immune health.
Clinically Studies Benefits of LP299V
1. Supports Digestive Comfort and Gut Function
LP299V is perhaps best known for its beneficial role in managing symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a common digestive disorder characterized by recurring abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and altered bowel habits–either constipation, diarrhea, or a mix of both. These symptoms are often linked to gut-brain axis dysfunction, altered motility, dysbiosis, and low-grade inflammation.
Multiple clinical studies have evaluated LP299V’s role in managing these uncomfortable symptoms:
- In one study, individuals with IBS who took LP299V for four weeks reported significant improvements in abdominal pain, bloating, and stool frequency compared to placebo.1,2*
- LP299V has also been shown to help normalize bowel movement, particularly in cases of IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), by supporting intestinal transit time and enhancing gut microbial stability.1,2*
This is supported by the American Gastroenterological Association, which acknowledged the potential benefits of improving abdominal pain scores in IBS patients.2
2. Promotes Microbial Balance
A disrupted gut microbiome could indicate lower functional amounts of beneficial commensal bacteria and is a common feature in individuals with IBS. LP299V contributes to microbial diversity and promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria while reducing populations of potentially harmful microbes.3,4 This action can help rebalance the microbiome, creating a more stable and resilient ecosystem that supports regularity and comfort.*
3. Mitigates Antibiotic-Associated Digestive Symptoms
Probiotics, but specifically LP299V, can be used to possibly lower the severity of antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal symptoms. Studies have shown that LP299V can reduce the risk of antibiotic-associated diarrhea and other mild GI symptoms during antibiotic treatment. However, it’s important to note that the timing of administration relative to antibiotic dosing may be important to maximize efficacy, as antibiotics can decrease the viability of probiotics.5,6
4. Improves Cardiovascular Health
Outside of its gut health benefits, LP299V supplementation has been linked to impressive heart health benefits. One study has shown that taking LP299V improved vascular endothelial function in male subjects with stable coronary artery disease (CAD).7 Other studies have shown reductions in proinflammatory biomarkers such IL-8, IL-12, and leptin, along with improved blood flow along major arterial systems.8 Additionally, LP299V has been found to lower cardiovascular disease risk factors, including systolic blood pressure, leptin, and fibrinogen levels in participants with a history of smoking after six weeks.9
Considerations When Supplementing with LP299V
Here are a few tips and considerations for adding LP299V to a healthcare regimen:
- Dosing matters: Most clinical trials on LP299V use daily doses of at least 10 billion CFU. Choose supplements with clinically relevant dosing and transparent labeling.
- Shelf-stability: LP299V is known for its resilience and stability, often making refrigeration unnecessary–but always follow the label for storage guidance.
- Formulation synergy: LP299V is sometimes paired with inflammation-balancing nutrients like Boswellia serrata to work together to improve IBS signs and symptoms.10
- Individual response may vary: While LP299V is well-tolerated and safe for most, individuals with certain underlying health concerns should consult their healthcare provider before beginning supplementation.
References
1. Ducrotté P et al. World J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(30):4012-4018.
2. Preidis GA et al. Gastroenterology. 2020;159(2):708-738.e4.
3. Goodoory VC et al. Gastroenterology. 2024;167(6):1248.
4. Chatsirisakul O et al. Nutrients. 2025;17(7):1165.
5. Olek A et al. J Pediatr. 2017;186:82-86.
6. Lönnermark E et al. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2010;44(2):106-112.
7. Hofeld BC et al. Sci Rep. 2021;11(1):3972.
8. Malik M et al. Circ Res. 2018;123(9):1091-1102.
9. Naruszewicz M et al. Am J Clin Nutr. 2002;76(6):1249-1255.
10. Riva A et al. Minerva Gastroenterologica e Dietologica. 2019;65(1):30-35.
