Bifidobacteria Infantis
Also known as: *B. infantis*, *Bifidobacterium infantis*, *Bifidobacterium longum* subspecies *infantis*
Overview
*Bifidobacterium infantis* is a probiotic bacterium predominantly found in the intestinal microbiota, especially in infants. It is renowned for its ability to metabolize human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), contributing to infant gut health and development. Used primarily to support gastrointestinal health, *B. infantis* shows promise in addressing conditions like necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants and other gastrointestinal disorders. Research on *B. infantis* is expanding, revealing potential applications in malnutrition and neurodegenerative diseases. While moderately supported by systematic reviews and clinical studies, further large-scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are essential for validating its benefits. Overall, *B. infantis* represents a vital component in dietary supplements aimed at enhancing gut health.
Benefits
Evidence suggests several key benefits of *B. infantis*: - **Preterm Infants**: Probiotics including *B. infantis* have been shown to significantly reduce the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) with a relative risk of 0.38 (95% CI, 0.27-0.55) based on a systematic review and meta-analysis involving 14,606 infants. - **Malnutrition**: In infants with severe acute malnutrition, supplementation led to improved weight gain and decreased intestinal inflammation. - **Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)**: Composite probiotics with *B. infantis* are linked to alleviation of symptoms such as bloating and abdominal pain. - **Neurodegenerative Diseases**: Emerging evidence indicates potential neuroprotective effects, although further clinical trials are needed. These benefits are particularly pronounced in vulnerable populations like preterm and malnourished infants with clinical significance emerging within weeks of supplementation.
How it works
*Bifidobacterium infantis* operates primarily by modifying the gut microbiota composition, enhancing the digestion of HMOs, which may influence gut development and health. The bacterium interacts with the gastrointestinal system, potentially exerting indirect effects on immune response and the gut-brain axis. While the precise molecular mechanisms remain largely uncharacterized, it is believed to modulate gut-derived metabolites and reduce inflammatory markers locally within the gut.
Side effects
*B. infantis* is generally regarded as safe for most individuals, including infants. Common side effects are not well-documented; however, mild gastrointestinal disturbances may occur in some cases (<5% incidence). Rarely (<1%), serious adverse effects could happen in immunocompromised patients, specifically systemic infections. There are no significant drug interactions reported, but caution is advised for individuals with severely compromised immune systems. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before starting supplementation, especially due to the lack of extensive safety studies in specific populations.
Dosage
Determining an exact dose for *B. infantis* can be challenging due to variability in product formulations. Typically, beneficial effects have been noted with daily dosages ranging from 10^8 to 10^9 colony-forming units (CFU), especially in mixed probiotic preparations. Timing is best aligned with meals to maximize survival through the stomach's acidity. While upper safety limits are not firmly established, *B. infantis* is generally considered safe within typical probiotic intake ranges. Forms available include capsules, powders, and fermentative foods, with no established cofactor requirements for optimal performance.
FAQs
How should I store *Bifidobacterium infantis* supplements?
Store in a cool, dry place and ensure to keep the product sealed to maintain viability.
Is it safe to take *Bifidobacterium infantis* daily?
Generally considered safe; however, consult a healthcare provider for individual health conditions.
When should I take my probiotic?
Best taken with meals to enhance its survival through the digestive system.
How long will it take to see results?
Results may vary by individual and condition, but benefits are typically observed within weeks.
Is *B. infantis* a cure for all gut issues?
*B. infantis* offers specific benefits, particularly for infants and certain conditions; it is not a universal remedy.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37460707/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the impact of probiotics, particularly those containing *B. infantis*, in preterm infants. The analysis included data from over 14,000 infants and found a significant reduction in NEC incidence, showcasing the potential of these probiotics in improving neonatal outcomes.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35417188/ – In this controlled trial focused on severely malnourished infants, supplementation with *B. infantis* demonstrated noteworthy improvements in weight gain and reductions in intestinal inflammation over a 28-day period.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28166427/ – This meta-analysis assessed the effects of probiotics in IBS patients, highlighting that composite probiotic formulations containing *B. infantis* could alleviate key symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31753895/ – The review summarized emerging research on *B. infantis*, indicating its potential role in neuroprotection and other conditions, while calling for further studies to strengthen its therapeutic profile.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/3/391 – This article provides a comprehensive overview of the benefits of *B. infantis*, particularly focusing on its role in digestive health and infant gut microbiota development, asserting the need for continued research in various health contexts.
