Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Lactobacillus animalis

Q: How should I store *B. lactis* supplements?

Store *B. lactis* supplements as directed on the product label, typically in a cool, dry place, to maintain the viability of the probiotic organisms.

Q: Is *B. lactis* safe for everyone?

*B. lactis* is generally safe, but individuals with compromised immune systems should consult a healthcare provider before use due to the potential risk of infection.

Q: When is the best time to take *B. lactis*?

It is generally recommended to take *B. lactis* with meals to enhance its survival through the acidic environment of the stomach.

Q: How long does it take to see results from *B. lactis* supplementation?

Improvements in gastrointestinal health or immune function may be noticeable within a few weeks of consistent *B. lactis* supplementation.

Q: Can *B. lactis* replace medical treatment?

No, *B. lactis* is not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Also known as: Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis, B. lactis

Overview

*Bifidobacterium animalis* subsp. *lactis* is a probiotic strain commonly found in fermented dairy products and available as a dietary supplement. It is primarily used to support gastrointestinal health and enhance immune system function. This probiotic is known for its ability to survive the harsh conditions of the stomach and small intestine, allowing it to reach the colon where it can exert its beneficial effects on the gut microbiota. Research suggests that *B. lactis* can modulate the gut environment, improve barrier function, and stimulate immune responses. It is available in various forms, including capsules and fermented foods. While generally considered safe, individuals with compromised immune systems should exercise caution. The existing research is of moderate quality, with several systematic reviews and meta-analyses supporting its use, although more long-term studies are needed to fully understand its effects.

Benefits

*B. lactis* supplementation has demonstrated potential benefits, particularly in enhancing immune function, especially among elderly populations. Studies have shown that it can increase natural killer (NK) cell and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell activity, indicating an improved immune response. A meta-analysis reported a standardized mean difference (SMD) of 0.43 (95% CI: 0.08 to 0.78, *p* = 0.02) for NK cell activity and an SMD of 0.74 (95% CI: 0.38 to 1.11, *p* < 0.001) for PMN phagocytic capacity. Additionally, *B. lactis* may alleviate gastrointestinal symptoms, although the evidence for this effect is mixed. The benefits are typically observed within a few weeks of consistent supplementation. While generally safe, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions.

How it works

*B. lactis* exerts its beneficial effects primarily by modulating the gut microbiota, enhancing the gut barrier function, and stimulating immune responses. As a probiotic, it does not need to be absorbed into the bloodstream; instead, it acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract. By interacting with the gut's microbial environment, it can help to balance the composition of the microbiota, promoting a healthier gut ecosystem. This modulation can lead to improved digestion, reduced inflammation, and enhanced nutrient absorption. Furthermore, *B. lactis* influences cytokine production and immune cell activity, contributing to a more robust immune response. These actions collectively support overall gastrointestinal and immune health.

Side effects

*B. lactis* is generally considered safe for most individuals, but some side effects have been reported. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating and gas, which typically occur in more than 5% of users. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) are not consistently reported. Rare side effects (less than 1%) may include infections in severely immunocompromised individuals. There are no well-documented drug interactions, but caution is advised in individuals with compromised immune systems. *B. lactis* is generally avoided in severely immunocompromised individuals due to the potential risk of infection. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using *B. lactis*, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

Dosage

The minimum effective dose of *B. lactis* is typically around 1-10 billion CFU per day, with the optimal dosage range also falling within this range. Doses above 10 billion CFU are not commonly recommended, as the maximum safe dose is not well-defined. It is best taken with food to enhance its survival through the stomach's acidic environment. *B. lactis* is commonly available in capsule form or found in fermented foods. As a probiotic that acts locally in the gut, absorption factors are not applicable. There are no identified required cofactors for its activity. While generally safe, it's advisable to adhere to the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

FAQs

How should I store *B. lactis* supplements?

Store *B. lactis* supplements as directed on the product label, typically in a cool, dry place, to maintain the viability of the probiotic organisms.

Is *B. lactis* safe for everyone?

*B. lactis* is generally safe, but individuals with compromised immune systems should consult a healthcare provider before use due to the potential risk of infection.

When is the best time to take *B. lactis*?

It is generally recommended to take *B. lactis* with meals to enhance its survival through the acidic environment of the stomach.

How long does it take to see results from *B. lactis* supplementation?

Improvements in gastrointestinal health or immune function may be noticeable within a few weeks of consistent *B. lactis* supplementation.

Can *B. lactis* replace medical treatment?

No, *B. lactis* is not a substitute for medical treatment. Consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34918142/ – This systematic review with meta-analysis of four clinical trials involving healthy elderly adults found that *B. lactis* HN019 supplementation enhances natural killer (NK) cell and polymorphonuclear (PMN) function, suggesting improved immune response. The study is limited by the small number of included studies and the short follow-up duration, but provides good quality evidence for the immune-boosting effects of this probiotic strain in the elderly.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28245559/ – This systematic review examined the effects of *B. lactis* on alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms. The review found mixed evidence for its effectiveness, which may be due to heterogeneity in study design and outcomes. While the review provides valuable insights, the variability in study designs limits the strength of the conclusions regarding the alleviation of gastrointestinal symptoms.
https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/80/6/1619/6464082 – This systematic review provides a general overview of probiotic efficacy by strain. While it is a high-quality review, it does not focus specifically on *B. lactis*. The review offers a broad perspective on the potential benefits of various probiotic strains, but lacks detailed analysis specific to *B. lactis*.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/gastroenterology/articles/10.3389/fgstr.2022.983075/full – This article discusses the potential of probiotics, including *Bifidobacterium* species, to modulate the gut microbiota and improve gut health. It highlights the importance of strain-specific effects and the need for personalized approaches to probiotic supplementation. The review emphasizes the complex interactions between probiotics and the host, and the potential for targeted interventions to address specific health conditions.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/medicine/articles/10.3389/fmed.2018.00124/full – This review explores the role of probiotics in modulating the immune system and preventing infections. It discusses the mechanisms by which probiotics can enhance immune responses and protect against pathogens. The review highlights the potential of probiotics as a complementary strategy for improving immune health and reducing the risk of infections.