Howaru Bifido
Also known as: Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019, HOWARU Bifido, Bifidobacterium lactis HN019
Overview
Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019, commonly known as HOWARU Bifido, is a probiotic strain derived from dairy products. It is primarily used to support gut health and enhance immune function, particularly in elderly populations. This probiotic is known for its ability to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract, allowing it to colonize the large intestine and exert its beneficial effects. Research indicates that HN019 can modulate immune responses by enhancing phagocytic capacity and natural killer cell activity. It is available in various forms, including capsules and fermented dairy products. The available evidence is generally good, with several clinical trials and meta-analyses supporting its efficacy, although more independent verification is needed to further validate its benefits.
Benefits
The primary benefit of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 is its ability to enhance immune function, particularly in elderly individuals. A meta-analysis of four clinical trials demonstrated that HN019 supplementation significantly improved phagocytic capacity (SMD = 0.74, 95% CI: 0.38 to 1.11, p < 0.001) and natural killer cell activity (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.78, p = 0.02). Additionally, HN019 supports gut health by increasing bifidobacterial populations in the intestines and improving colonic transit time. These benefits are typically observed within weeks to months of consistent supplementation. The effect sizes for immune function improvements are moderate to large, indicating clinically significant outcomes.
How it works
Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 modulates immune responses by enhancing phagocytic capacity and natural killer cell activity, which are crucial for fighting infections and cancer cells. It interacts with the gastrointestinal and immune systems to promote a healthy gut microbiota and enhance immune function. As a probiotic, it survives passage through the stomach and small intestine to colonize the large intestine, where it exerts its beneficial effects. While the exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated, it is known to modulate immune cell functions.
Side effects
Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 is generally considered safe with minimal side effects. The most common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating or gas. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) have not been consistently reported. Rare side effects (less than 1%) are undocumented. No significant drug interactions have been reported. While generally safe, caution is advised in immunocompromised individuals. It is considered safe for elderly and healthy adults, but caution should be exercised in cases of severe immunodeficiency.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 is typically 1-2 billion CFU per day, with optimal dosage ranges between 1-5 billion CFU per day. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but it is generally considered safe at recommended doses. It is best taken with food to enhance survival through the gastrointestinal tract. HN019 is available in capsules or as part of fermented dairy products. Survival through the stomach and small intestine is crucial for its efficacy. No specific cofactors are required for its absorption or function.
FAQs
How should HOWARU Bifido be stored?
HOWARU Bifido should be stored properly to maintain its viability. Follow the storage instructions on the product label, typically in a cool, dry place.
Is HOWARU Bifido safe for everyone?
HOWARU Bifido is generally safe for most populations, including healthy adults and the elderly. However, caution is advised for individuals with severe immunodeficiency.
When is the best time to take HOWARU Bifido?
It is best to take HOWARU Bifido with meals to enhance its survival through the gastrointestinal tract and improve its efficacy.
What are the expected results from taking HOWARU Bifido?
Users may experience enhanced immune function and potential gut health benefits, such as improved digestion and regularity, within weeks to months of consistent use.
Is HOWARU Bifido a cure for diseases?
No, HOWARU Bifido is not a cure for diseases. It is a probiotic supplement that supports overall health by promoting a healthy gut microbiota and enhancing immune function.
Research Sources
- https://hcp.howaru.com/howaru-benefit-areas/immune-health/elderly-hn019/ – This webpage provides information on the benefits of HOWARU Bifido (Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019) for immune health in the elderly. It highlights clinical studies demonstrating improvements in immune function, specifically phagocytic capacity and natural killer cell activity, in elderly subjects.
- https://www.howaru.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/04-20-Dupont-Immune-Handout-V6.pdf – This handout summarizes the immune-related benefits of HOWARU Protect Senior, containing Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019. It references clinical trials showing enhanced immune responses in elderly populations, including improved phagocytic activity and natural killer cell function, suggesting a potential role in supporting immune health.
- https://howaru.co.kr/clinical-paper-protect-senior/ – This resource details clinical studies on HOWARU Protect Senior, focusing on its benefits for the elderly. The studies demonstrate that supplementation with Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 can improve immune parameters, such as phagocytic capacity and natural killer cell activity, thereby supporting immune health in older adults.
- https://howaru.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/BIFIDOBACTERIUM-ANIMALIS-SSP.-LACTIS-HN019TM.pdf – This document provides an overview of Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019, highlighting its characteristics and benefits. It discusses its ability to survive passage through the gastrointestinal tract and its potential to modulate immune responses and support gut health, based on available research.
- https://www.howaru.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/DNB_Danisco_HOWARU-Protect-Senior_HO9055_2US-NL-1.pdf – This document focuses on HOWARU Protect Senior and its benefits for immune health in the elderly. It summarizes clinical evidence demonstrating that Bifidobacterium animalis ssp. lactis HN019 can enhance immune function, including improved phagocytic activity and natural killer cell function, in older adults.
