Bifidobacterium bifidum
Synopsis of bifidobacterium bifidum
Bifidobacterium bifidum is one of the first probiotic species to colonize the human gastrointestinal tract, especially in infants who are breastfed. It is a gram-positive, anaerobic, lactic acid–producing bacterium belonging to the Bifidobacteriaceae family, and plays a critical role in maintaining gut health, immune function, and barrier integrity. Found naturally in the colon, lower small intestine, and vaginal microbiota, B. bifidum is often included in probiotic supplements and functional foods.
Key health benefits of Bifidobacterium bifidum include:
- Restoring and maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, especially after antibiotic use
- Improving digestion and nutrient absorption, particularly carbohydrates and lactose
- Enhancing immune function by stimulating IgA production and balancing cytokine levels
- Reducing gastrointestinal infections and preventing pathogen colonization
- Alleviating constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and symptoms of IBS (irritable bowel syndrome)
- Supporting skin and allergy conditions, including eczema and seasonal allergies
B. bifidum exerts these benefits by fermenting dietary fibers into short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate, which nourish colon cells, lower pH to deter harmful microbes, and reduce inflammation.
It is commonly included in multi-strain probiotics, infant formulas, and gut health supplements, and can also be naturally supported through fiber-rich diets and fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut.
Historical Use:
Although Bifidobacterium bifidum itself was only identified in the early 20th century, the concept of supporting gut health through fermented foods rich in beneficial bacteria has a long history in traditional cultures. Foods like kefir in Eastern Europe, miso in Japan, yogurt in the Middle East, and fermented vegetables worldwide were consumed to promote digestion and resilience.
In the early 1900s, researchers like Élie Metchnikoff proposed that intestinal bacteria influence aging and immunity, leading to the idea of probiotic therapy. B. bifidum was isolated from infant feces and recognized as a dominant gut microbe in breastfed infants, contributing to their lower risk of infection and better immune development.
Today, Bifidobacterium bifidum is considered one of the core probiotic strains for both children and adults, offering foundational support for gut integrity, immune modulation, and overall health in the modern microbiome-centered model of wellness.
Bifidobacterium bifidum is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Scientific)
Acid Indigestion (Scientific)
Antibiotics (side effects of) (Scientific)
Anxiety (Scientific)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Celiac Disease (Scientific)
Chemotherapy (reducing side effects) (Scientific)
Cholesterol (high) (Scientific)
Colitis (Scientific)
Constipation (adults) (Scientific)
Constipation (children) (Scientific)
Crohn's Disease (Scientific)
Diarrhea (Scientific)
Digestion (poor) (Scientific)
Diverticulitis (Scientific)
Eczema (Scientific)
Fatty Liver Disease (Scientific)
Gas and Bloating (Scientific)
Gastritis (Scientific)
Gingivitis (Scientific)
Indigestion (Scientific)
Infection (bacterial) (Scientific)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders (Scientific)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Scientific)
Lactose Intolerance (Scientific)
Leaky Gut Syndrome (Scientific)
Oral Surgery (Scientific)
Rhinitis (Scientific)
Rhinitis, Allergic (Scientific)
Stress (Scientific)
Ulcers (Scientific)
Vaginitis (Scientific)
bifidobacterium bifidum is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Scientific)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Scientific)
Immune System (Scientific)
Intestinal System (Scientific)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Scientific)
Peyer’s patches (Scientific)
Small Intestines (Scientific)
Products containing bifidobacterium bifidum
Nature's Sunshine Eleven Elevated (NutriBiome)
Nature's Sunshine Probiotic Eleven
Nature's Sunshine Sunshine Heroes Probiotic Power
