Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14

Also known as: L. acidophilus La-14, La-14, Lactobacillus acidophilus LA14

Evidence under review. — Not yet rated

Probiotic strain with early evidence for immune support and inflammation reduction in multi-strain blends.

What it does

Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14 is a specific strain of beneficial bacteria commonly used in probiotic supplements. The available research — mostly using multi-strain blends containing LA-14 —...
Evidence quality

Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
Clinical dose

No established dose from provided studies alone

What the Science Says

Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14 is a specific strain of beneficial bacteria commonly used in probiotic supplements. The available research — mostly using multi-strain blends containing LA-14 — suggests it may help modulate immune responses, reduce certain inflammatory markers, and potentially degrade oxalate, a compound linked to kidney stones. Most studies used it alongside other probiotic strains, so its individual contribution is difficult to isolate.

What It Doesn't Do

Not proven to work on its own — almost all studies used it in multi-strain blends. No solid evidence it treats or prevents any specific disease. Won't replace medications for rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, or infections. No proven weight loss effect. No evidence it improves gut symptoms like bloating or IBS on its own.

Evidence-Based Benefits

May speed up antibody (IgG) production after oral vaccination in healthy adults.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 2×10¹⁰ CFU daily for 3 weeks

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 18422632

Part of a probiotic blend that reduced TNF-α and IL-6 in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: 1×10⁹ CFU/day in a 5-strain blend for 60 days

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 34111674

Produces an enzyme that can break down oxalate, which may help reduce kidney stone risk.

Weak Evidence

Effective at: No clinical dose established from provided studies

Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):

PMID 17499563

Absorption & Bioavailability

Moderate — one study confirmed dose-dependent survival through simulated gastro-intestinal passage, but recovery rates vary by dose and formulation.

Red Flags to Watch For

Nearly all clinical evidence involves multi-strain blends — LA-14's individual effect cannot be confirmed from the provided studies
No systematic reviews or large standalone RCTs for this specific strain were found in the provided data
Widely used in over 1,000 registered supplement products, but commercial prevalence does not equal proven efficacy
Studies are small (42–87 participants) and short-term (3–60 days), limiting confidence in long-term safety and effectiveness

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14 do?

Probiotic strain with early evidence for immune support and inflammation reduction in multi-strain blends.

What is the effective dose of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14?

No established dose from provided studies alone

Is Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14 safe?

Nearly all clinical evidence involves multi-strain blends — LA-14's individual effect cannot be confirmed from the provided studies

What doesn't Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-14 do?

Not proven to work on its own — almost all studies used it in multi-strain blends.

Research Sources

PubMed
NIH DSLD

This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25