A probiotic developed by Evolved Probiotics, an Arm & Hammer Brand, was shown to prevent the recurrence of urinary tract infections in a clinical study published in Microorganisms.

The strain, Limosilactobacillus reuteri 3613-1, was tested in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study managed by Atlantia Clinical Trials in 130 women between the ages of 18 and 65, who were experiencing recurrent UTIs. The findings showed that the probiotic delayed the onset of the first UTI, achieving statistical significance in participants with suspected but unconfirmed UTIs. The probiotic was also confirmed to produce reuterin, an antimicrobial compound produced by certain L. reuteri strains.

Previous in vitro studies found that the antimicrobial properties of the strain inhibited the growth of E. coli isolates and inhibited Gardnerella vaginalis and Candida albicans more than other L. reuteri strains.

L. reuteri 3613-1 was identified from a library of over 6,000 lactic acid bacteria in the Arm & Hammer brand research library, due to its unique ability to produce antimicrobial metabolites. The strain’s reuterin production inhibits vaginal and urinary pathogens up to 90% more effectively than other strains, according to the company, and it is suitable for powder mixes, cultured products, and capsules.

“While urinary tract infections are unfortunately common and recurring among women of reproductive age, we continue to see probiotics as an effective strategy in promoting urogenital wellness,” said Amy Wescott, operations manager at Arm & Hammer performance products and co-author of the present study. “Rooted in the trust and legacy of the Arm & Hammer brand, Evolved Probiotics is at the forefront of probiotic innovation, addressing the needs of today’s sophisticated consumer who seeks reliable alternative health strategies.”