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Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01

Also known as: Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01, Bifidobacterium bifidum strain BB01, Bifidobacterium bifidum

Overview

Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 is a specific probiotic bacterial strain naturally found in the human gastrointestinal tract, particularly abundant in infants. As a member of the Bifidobacterium genus, it is widely recognized for its beneficial contributions to gut health. This strain is primarily utilized as a dietary supplement to foster a balanced gut microbiota, enhance immune function, and potentially prevent or alleviate various gastrointestinal and systemic conditions. Its key characteristics include its capacity to colonize the gut, modulate immune responses, and inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria. While research specifically on B. bifidum BB01 is still developing, existing evidence, often from broader Bifidobacterium studies or related strains, suggests promising applications. The quality of evidence varies, encompassing high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, though few focus exclusively on BB01.

Benefits

Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 offers several evidence-based benefits, particularly for specific populations. A primary benefit is the potential reduction of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants; a systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that Bifidobacterium strains, including B. bifidum, may significantly lower NEC incidence with a favorable safety profile. Another key benefit, supported by a multicenter RCT, is the reduction of atopy and respiratory infections in newborns delivered via cesarean section, with observed benefits over a 6-month supplementation period. While not exclusive to BB01, meta-analyses suggest that Bifidobacterium-containing preparations may improve depressive symptoms, with effects noted within 4-12 weeks of intervention. Infants born by cesarean section and preterm infants appear to derive the most significant benefits from B. bifidum BB01 supplementation. The clinical significance of these findings is supported by statistically significant reductions in disease incidence in relevant trials.

How it works

Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 exerts its effects primarily by colonizing the gut mucosa, where it competes with harmful bacteria for resources and attachment sites. This competitive exclusion helps maintain a healthy microbial balance. The strain also produces various metabolites that actively modulate the immune system, promoting anti-inflammatory pathways. It enhances the integrity of the gut barrier, which is crucial for preventing the translocation of toxins and pathogens into the bloodstream. Its molecular actions involve influencing Toll-like receptors and cytokine production, thereby regulating systemic immune responses. As a live bacterial supplement, its efficacy relies on its ability to survive the acidic environment of the stomach and successfully colonize the gastrointestinal tract.

Side effects

Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 is generally considered safe, particularly for infants and healthy individuals, as demonstrated in clinical trials. Adverse effects are rare and typically mild, with some individuals potentially experiencing minor gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been reported in the reviewed literature. The strain has been well-tolerated in special populations, including preterm infants and newborns, under controlled clinical trial conditions. However, as with any probiotic, individuals with compromised immune systems or severe underlying health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use. There are no specific warnings regarding overdose, but adherence to recommended dosages is advised.

Dosage

Specific optimal dosages for Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 are not yet fully established for all populations. In a multicenter randomized controlled trial involving newborns, daily supplementation was administered for 6 months, though the exact CFU (colony-forming units) were not detailed in the summary. For general Bifidobacterium probiotics, typical daily doses range from 10^8 to 10^10 CFU. For neonates, early-life supplementation is considered beneficial for immune and gut microbiota development. B. bifidum BB01 is commonly available in formulations such as lyophilized powders and capsules. For efficacy, it is crucial that the formulation ensures the survival of the live bacteria through the gastric acid barrier to reach the intestines. There are no established upper limits or safety thresholds specifically for BB01, but general probiotic guidelines suggest that higher doses are usually well-tolerated.

FAQs

Is Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 safe for infants?

Yes, clinical trials have demonstrated the safety of Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 in newborns, including those born by cesarean section, with rare and mild side effects.

How long does it take to see benefits from Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01?

In infants, benefits were observed over a 6-month supplementation period. For adults with depression, effects from Bifidobacterium preparations appeared within 4-12 weeks.

Can Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 prevent dental caries?

Current evidence does not support a significant effect of Bifidobacterium strains, including BB01, in inhibiting Streptococcus mutans or preventing dental caries.

Is Bifidobacterium bifidum BB01 effective alone or only in combination with other probiotics?

Most evidence comes from studies using Bifidobacterium strains alone or in combination. While BB01-specific data are limited, studies show promising results for its use as a single strain.

Research Sources

https://medicaljournalssweden.se/actaodontologica/article/download/36185/41312/93650 – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effect of Bifidobacterium on Streptococcus mutans reduction in saliva for caries prevention. It concluded that Bifidobacterium strains, including BB01, did not show a significant effect, highlighting heterogeneity and unclear strain-specific effects.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11205812/ – This multicenter randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of B. bifidum BB01 in healthy term infants born by cesarean section. It found that supplementation safely reduced the incidence of atopy and respiratory infections over a 6-month period, demonstrating high quality and controlled findings.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1463848/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 13 RCTs explored the impact of Bifidobacterium preparations on depressive symptoms. It suggested that these preparations improved depressive symptoms, though the studies involved mixed strains and did not isolate the effects of BB01, providing promising but indirect evidence.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30500473/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on preterm infants and the effect of Bifidobacterium on necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). It concluded that Bifidobacterium supplementation reduced the incidence of NEC, with BB01 being among the strains included, indicating high quality and clinically relevant outcomes.