Blis K12 Streptococcus Salivarius K12
Also known as: BLIS K12, Streptococcus salivarius K12
Overview
*Streptococcus salivarius* K12 is a probiotic strain that is part of the natural oral microbiota and was initially isolated from a healthy child's throat in New Zealand. It is used for its beneficial effects on upper respiratory health, particularly in preventing infections such as pharyngotonsillitis and acute otitis media (AOM). This strain produces lantibiotics, specifically salivaricin A2 and B, that inhibit pathogenic bacteria like *Streptococcus pyogenes* and *Haemophilus influenzae*. The strain has been researched for over 30 years with multiple clinical trials and shows a moderate to high level of evidence regarding its efficacy in supporting ear, nose, and throat health.
Benefits
Research demonstrates that *Streptococcus salivarius* K12 provides several key benefits, including: - **Reduction in Pharyngotonsillitis and AOM**: Studies indicate a significant reduction in the occurrence of these infections in children, with effect sizes around -0.88 to -1.80. - **Oral Mucositis Prevention**: Clinical trials show that K12 lozenges significantly reduce the incidence of oral mucositis in patients undergoing radiotherapy, with a notable decrease from 54.2% in controls to 36.6% in the treatment group. - **Immune Support**: The strain has been shown to elevate salivary IgA levels and may lower URTI occurrences in active individuals. - **Halitosis Reduction**: Evidence suggests K12 may also aid in decreasing halitosis severity by inhibiting bacteria responsible for foul breath.
How it works
*Streptococcus salivarius* K12 functions primarily by producing lantibiotics that target and inhibit harmful bacteria, effectively reducing their growth in the oral cavity. It also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that help control infection-related inflammation by lowering IL-8 levels, thereby assisting the immune system. By colonizing the upper respiratory tract, K12 provides local defense against opportunistic pathogens, supporting overall mucosal immunity.
Side effects
*Streptococcus salivarius* K12 is generally regarded as safe, with no significant adverse events reported in clinical studies. Side effects are uncommon, with regularly monitored studies indicating no adverse reactions occurring in more than 5% of participants. There are no significant drug interactions or known contraindications, making it suitable for children as young as 3 years old and for adults undergoing cancer treatments, including radiotherapy.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for *Streptococcus salivarius* K12 ranges from 1 billion to 5 billion CFU per day, with 1 billion CFU being the most commonly recommended dosage administered in lozenge or tablet form. Continuous use over 3 to 6 months is suggested to maximize benefits, particularly for conditions like pharyngotonsillitis, AOM, and oral mucositis. Higher doses up to 5 billion CFU have been safely utilized in clinical settings without adverse reactions.
FAQs
Is *Streptococcus salivarius* K12 safe?
Yes, *Streptococcus salivarius* K12 is considered safe with no severe adverse events reported in clinical trials.
How should I take K12?
Take the probiotic once daily, preferably in the morning, to maintain effective colonization in the upper respiratory tract.
What benefits can I expect?
Users may experience reduced incidence of pharyngotonsillitis and AOM, as well as improvements in oral mucositis and halitosis.
Can it replace medical treatment?
No, it should not replace medical treatment but rather serve as a preventive measure for infections and to support immune health.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1129060/full – This study reviews the immunological effects of oral probiotics including *Streptococcus salivarius* K12, emphasizing its role in enhancing mucosal immunity and reducing recurrent infections in children.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/14/12/1613 – The systematic review compiles various studies supporting the efficacy of *Streptococcus salivarius* K12 in reducing URTIs and recurrent streptococcal infections, highlighting its safety and beneficial impacts across diverse populations.
- https://ascopubs.org/doi/10.1200/JCO.23.00837 – This prospective randomized double-blind trial assessed the impact of K12 on severe oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients, finding significant reductions in incidence and duration compared to controls.
- https://stratumnutrition.com/resources/post/top-5-reasons-to-consider-blis-k12-for-immune-health – A detailed overview of the health benefits associated with *Streptococcus salivarius* K12, including immune support and oral health improvement, backed by clinical trial evidence.
- https://www.nutrafoods.eu/index.php/nutra/article/download/30/25 – This article outlines the various applications of *Streptococcus salivarius* K12, particularly in pediatric health, discussing its natural origins and mechanisms of action against pathogens.