A recent placebo-controlled, double-blind trial conducted by the research and development division of Meiji Co. in Japan reveals promising results regarding the efficacy of Lactobacillus paragasseri (OLL2809) supplementation in alleviating premenstrual symptoms among healthy adult women. This study, spanning three menstrual cycles and involving 80 participants, sheds light on the potential of OLL2809 to enhance women’s quality of life.
Menstruation, a natural physiological process in women, often brings about health challenges due to hormonal fluctuations. Approximately half of women worldwide experience premenstrual symptoms, impacting their ability to perform daily activities. This study emphasizes the societal importance of addressing menstrual-related symptoms, which contribute to a significant productivity loss of 72%.
Despite extensive research, uncertainties persist regarding the cause of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The absence of clinically applicable biomarkers for diagnosis complicates the understanding of PMS, as there is no known relationship between PMS and organic or hormonal abnormalities.
OLL2809, known for its immunomodulatory effects, has shown promise in previous trials for reducing menstrual pain in patients with endometriosis. Its ability to modulate gut microbiota and alleviate stress-induced depression-like behaviors suggests a potential role in addressing psychological aspects of menstrual-related symptoms.
The study involved 80 women aged 25–40 years experiencing premenstrual and menstrual symptoms. Participants were randomly assigned to either the OLL2809 or placebo group, with both groups ingesting tablets for three menstrual cycles. The active tablets contained dried OLL2809 powder, while the placebos contained lyophilized OLL2809 culture medium powder.
A self-administered questionnaire with 46 items, categorized into eight sub-factors, assessed premenstrual and menstrual symptoms. The OLL2809 group exhibited significantly greater changes in premenstrual ‘arousal’ scores and ‘activity’ sub-factor compared to the placebo group. Additionally, the OLL2809 group reported significantly lower premenstrual irritability.
While the study provides promising results, the authors acknowledge the absence of objective biomarkers for menstrual symptoms and stress the need for further investigation. They speculate on the involvement of the stress response of the HPA axis and call for additional research to elucidate how OLL2809 ingestion improves premenstrual psychological symptoms. Overall, the findings suggest a potential avenue for enhancing women’s well-being through probiotic supplementation.
