Bifidobacterium Animalis Lactis Extract
Also known as: B. lactis, Bifidobacterium lactis, Bifidobacterium animalis, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis
Overview
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is a widely recognized probiotic strain primarily found in fermented dairy products and dietary supplements. This microorganism is notable for its stability, allowing it to withstand various food preparation and preservation processes. It is predominantly utilized to enhance gastrointestinal health and bolster immune function. Research surrounding this strain is extensive, particularly regarding the BB-12 variant, with over 300 peer-reviewed studies underpinning its efficacy. The body of evidence supporting its health benefits includes numerous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, highlighting its relevance in clinical nutrition and functional foods.
Benefits
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis offers several evidence-based benefits. Research indicates a significant effect on gastrointestinal health, increasing defecation frequency (SMD, 0.26; 95% CI, 0.13-0.39) and improving stool consistency, particularly in individuals without gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, it plays a role in immune modulation, positively influencing immune cell function in the gut. Specific populations, such as preterm infants, benefit from enriched gut microbiota and reduced harmful bacteria. Other findings suggest potential relief for atopic dermatitis in food-sensitive children. Overall, the effects are modest yet clinically significant, often observed within short treatment periods (≤14 days).
How it works
The action of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis primarily involves the fermentation of undigested carbohydrates to produce short-chain fatty acids, which positively influence gut health. This strain engages with the gut-associated lymphoid tissue, enhancing immune responses. The strain's metabolites may also modulate cytokine expression and optimize immune cell maturation, illustrating its dual role in gut and immune system health.
Side effects
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is generally deemed safe, with a notable absence of significant adverse effects compared to placebo groups. Reported side effects are minimal, with no common adverse effects surpassing 5% occurrence across studies. When instances of mild discomfort occur, they tend to be infrequent, with limited documentation on rare side effects. Importantly, this probiotic has not demonstrated any significant drug interactions and has no established contraindications. Safety in vulnerable populations, including preterm infants and the elderly, is well-documented, underscoring its broad acceptability.
Dosage
While the minimum effective dose of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis has not been precisely established, doses as low as 6.5 × 10^7 CFU/day have shown benefits. The typically recommended dosage ranges from 10^8 to 10^10 CFU/day, with clinical trials having reported safe upper limits up to 100 billion CFU/day. Continuous daily intake is advised to ensure sustained gastrointestinal and immune benefits. This probiotic is commonly available in various forms, including capsules and dairy products, with stability facilitating its bioavailability.
FAQs
How should Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis be stored?
To maintain viability, it is important to store this probiotic in a cool, dry place. Refrigeration is often recommended, especially for powder forms.
Is it safe for everyone to use?
Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is generally safe for most people, but individuals with compromised immune systems should consult a healthcare provider before use.
When is the best time to take it?
For optimal absorption, it is recommended to take Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis with food.
What improvements can I expect?
Users may observe gastrointestinal health improvements and enhanced immune function within weeks of regular supplementation.
Are all probiotic strains the same?
No, different probiotic strains can have varying effects, so it's crucial to choose strains with evidence for specific health benefits.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34918142/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis evaluated Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis effects on gastrointestinal function in healthy adults, noting increased defecation frequency and improved stool consistency. The analysis included data from 14 studies and highlighted the need for additional high-quality RCTs.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20543719/ – This systematic review focused on Bifidobacterium lactis CNCM I-3446's impact on gut microbiota in preterm infants. Results indicated significant increases in beneficial bifidobacteria and reductions in harmful bacteria, warranting further studies for definitive clinical outcomes.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.790561/full – This review addressed the broader implications of Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 on gut health, finding improvements in microbiota balance and potential immune system benefits. The review calls for more confirmatory studies to solidify these effects.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5029483/ – Investigated the safety and efficacy of probiotics, including Bifidobacterium species. The article concluded that Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis is generally safe and effective, particularly in gastrointestinal health, with a high-quality evidence base.
- https://www.annfammed.org/content/21/Supplement_3/4762 – This publication summarizes the roles of various probiotic strains in clinical contexts, highlighting the benefits of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis in managing gastrointestinal disorders and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
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