Evidence supporting the use of: Kefiran
For the health condition: Antibiotics (side effects of)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Kefiran, a polysaccharide produced by Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens found in kefir grains, has been investigated for its potential to support gut health, especially in the context of antibiotic use. Antibiotics often disrupt the balance of the gut microbiota, leading to side effects such as diarrhea, bloating, and increased susceptibility to pathogenic bacteria. The traditional use of kefir as a probiotic food has prompted scientific interest in its bioactive components, including kefiran, for mitigating these effects.

Several animal studies and in vitro experiments have shown that kefiran may help modulate the gut microbiota and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. Some research suggests that kefiran can help restore intestinal barrier function and reduce inflammation induced by antibiotic-associated dysbiosis. However, direct clinical evidence in humans specifically examining kefiran (rather than whole kefir or general probiotics) for the prevention or treatment of antibiotic-associated side effects is limited. Most available clinical studies focus on kefir or other probiotics, not isolated kefiran.

In summary, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence supporting the use of kefiran to support gut health during or after antibiotic therapy, robust human clinical trials are lacking. Therefore, the evidence rating is moderate to low (2/5), and its use is not as well-established as that of whole kefir or more studied probiotics.

More about Kefiran
More about Antibiotics (side effects of)

Products containing Kefiran

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.