Streptococcus thermophilus

What is Streptococcus thermophilus?

Streptococcus thermophilus is a gram-positive, spherical bacterium that belongs to the streptococcus family. It is a lactic acid bacterium, which means that it converts milk sugar (lactose) into lactic acid. This lowers the pH value of its environment and makes it more acidic. Streptococcus thermophilus is found in fermented milk products such as yogurt, quark and cheese, but also in vegan alternatives such as soy yogurt. It is often used together with another lactic acid bacterium, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, as a starter culture to produce these products.

Streptococcus thermophilus is considered a probiotic, which means that it has positive effects on the health of the host organism when ingested in sufficient quantities. For example, it can promote digestion, strengthen the immune system and inhibit inflammation. It can also fight harmful microorganisms by producing antimicrobial substances or supporting the mucosal barrier. Streptococcus thermophilus can also synthesize vitamins such as folic acid and has antioxidant properties.

What are the benefits of Streptococcus thermophilus for dogs?

Streptococcus thermophilus can also be beneficial for dogs when administered in appropriate products or supplements. Some possible benefits are:

• Improve lactose tolerance: many dogs have problems breaking down lactose because they do not produce enough lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose. This can lead to digestive problems such as flatulence, diarrhea or vomiting. Streptococcus thermophilus can help improve lactose tolerance by predigesting lactose and releasing the enzyme beta-galactosidase, which can further break down the lactose.
• Strengthening the intestinal flora: The intestinal flora is the entirety of microorganisms that live in the intestine and play an important role in health. Among other things, it influences digestion, the immune system and mood. Streptococcus thermophilus can strengthen the intestinal flora by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and maintaining the balance between the different types of bacteria.
• Protection against infections: The gut is constantly exposed to various pathogens that can lead to infections. Streptococcus thermophilus can protect the gut from infection by regenerating and stabilizing the mucosal barrier, which serves as the first line of defense against invaders. It can also produce or release antimicrobial substances that can kill or inhibit harmful germs.
• Modulation of the immune response: The immune system is responsible for defending against pathogens and fighting inflammation. However, it can also overreact or be misdirected, which can lead to allergies, autoimmune diseases or chronic inflammation. Streptococcus thermophilus can modulate the immune response by influencing the activity and balance of various immune cells and messenger substances. For example, it can increase the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines or reduce the release of histamine.

What are the disadvantages of Streptococcus thermophilus for dogs?

Streptococcus thermophilus is generally not harmful to dogs when administered in appropriate amounts and in suitable products or supplements. However, there are some possible disadvantages or risks that should be considered:

• Overdosing: too high a dose of Streptococcus thermophilus can lead to undesirable side effects, such as indigestion, diarrhea, bloating or nausea. This can happen especially in dogs that are sensitive to dairy products or have an existing intestinal disease. Therefore, the recommended dosage should always be observed and the dog's tolerance monitored.
• Interactions: Streptococcus thermophilus can interact with other substances taken by the dog and strengthen or weaken their effect. This can happen, for example, with antibiotics, which can also kill the beneficial bacteria in the intestine and thus reduce the effect of Streptococcus thermophilus. Conversely, Streptococcus thermophilus can also influence the absorption or degradation of other medications and thus alter their effect. Therefore, the vet should always be consulted before giving Streptococcus thermophilus to a dog that is taking other medication.
• Infections: Although Streptococcus thermophilus is not normally pathogenic, in rare cases it can lead to infections in dogs. This can happen especially in dogs that have a weakened immune system or suffer from other conditions that make them more susceptible to infection. Symptoms of infection can include fever, loss of appetite, lethargy or pain.